Are open containers legal in Indiana?

Asked by: Rolando Jenkins DDS  |  Last update: April 20, 2025
Score: 4.2/5 (50 votes)

Indiana's open container law, explicitly prohibits anyone operating a motor vehicle, including boats, cars, trucks, and 18-wheelers, from having an open container of alcohol within reach of the driver. However, this law does not apply to individuals traveling in motor homes.

Can you walk around with an open container in Indiana?

There is no explicit open container law in Indiana; which means, generally, that individuals are permitted to carry alcoholic drinks in public and on sidewalks.

Can passengers drink alcohol in a car in Indiana?

In Indiana, it's completely illegal to have an open alcoholic beverage inside a moving vehicle. This applies if the beverage is open, if it has a broken seal, or if some of the beverage's contents have already been removed from the container.

Can you drink alcohol in public in Indiana?

Generally, there are no restrictions on drinking in public in Indiana. This means that it is completely legal for adults, over the age of 21, to carry and consume alcohol in public and on sidewalks.

What is the new alcohol law in Indiana?

Today, the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) applauded Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb for signing HB 1086, a bill to allow cocktails to-go in support of businesses and consumers. Indiana is now the 25th state to pass a permanent cocktails-to-go law. The bill will be effective on July 1, 2024.

Is it a crime to drive with an "open container"?

39 related questions found

Is carryout alcohol legal in Indiana?

Can you buy cold beer for carryout in Indiana? Yes, but only at liquor stores. Grocery stores, convenience stores and pharmacies are not allowed to sell cold beer. This is another rule liquor stores have objected to changing over the years as it sets their business apart from other retailers.

Can you leave a restaurant with alcohol?

In California (probably most states), you can take home your leftover wine. If you're driving, you need to be aware of the open container laws - a bottle that has been opened and recorked/recapped must be not accessible to the vehicle occupants (if in a car - in a bus, limousine or RV it's a bit different).

What are the weird liquor laws in Indiana?

Indiana made it illegal for liquor stores to sell refrigerated soda or water. The law states that a beer and wine store should be exclusively alcoholic. That means any water were soda sold needs to be at room temperature. Additionally, you're not allowed to sniff toxic vapors of any kind in Indiana.

What is the happy hour law in Indiana?

Under the new law, bars can offer specials four hours a day, 15 hours a week, except between 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. Also, there are no two-for-one or bottomless drink specials. Indiana Restaurant and Lodging Association has been working closely with businesses to make sure owners know all the guidelines.

Can bartenders drink on the job in Indiana?

(1) Prohibit the illegal use of drugs and the use of alcohol at the workplace by all employees. (2) Require that employees shall not be under the influence of alcohol or be engaging in the illegal use of drugs at the workplace.

How much is an open container ticket in Indiana?

Ramifications of an Open Container Conviction

This is punishable by up to 180 days in jail and fines not to exceed $1,000. Passengers who are found to have an open container will be charged with a Class C misdemeanor, which could result in up to sixty days in jail and fines of up to $500.

What is the code for open container in Indiana?

Indiana's open container law, explicitly prohibits anyone operating a motor vehicle, including boats, cars, trucks, and 18-wheelers, from having an open container of alcohol within reach of the driver. However, this law does not apply to individuals traveling in motor homes.

What states allow open containers in cars?

Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Mississippi, Missouri, Virginia, and West Virginia allow open alcohol containers in vehicles. Of these, Mississippi is the only state that allows the driver to drink – in the others, only passengers may drink.

Can you travel with alcohol in your car?

According to the California Driver's Handbook, you can only transport alcohol inside a vehicle if you're over 21 or have someone over 21 with you and the vessel is unopened, sealed, and full.

Can you drive with an open bottle of liquor?

In California, it is illegal to drive with an open container of alcohol in your vehicle, whether you are the driver or a passenger.

Where is open container illegal?

However, the definition of "public place" is not always clear. California is unique in that it does have a state law on the books that only prohibits possessing alcoholic beverage containers that have been opened (unless that container is in one's possession "for the purpose of recycling or other related activity") in ...

What is the quiet hour in Indiana?

The noise ordinance states quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. daily. Events must be accessible to people with disabilities.

Can a minor drink on private property in Indiana?

Under Indiana Code section 7.1-5-7-7, it is illegal for a minor under the age of 21 to possess or consume any alcoholic beverage. It is also against the law for a minor to transport an alcoholic beverage on any public road or highway without at least one parent or guardian also present.

Is it illegal to not take a lunch break in Indiana?

Indiana employers aren't require to offer meal breaks or rest breaks. Although some Indiana employers provide meal or rest breaks, you might be surprised to learn that federal law doesn't give employees the right to time off to eat lunch (or another meal) or the right to take short breaks during the work day.

Why is there no cold beer in Indiana?

The ban started out as a so-called blue law to limit consumption. Over time, the focus has shifted and package liquor stores have argued to remain the state's exclusive outlets for cold beer, in part because they say it keeps them in business.

Can a passenger in a car drink alcohol in Indiana?

What about passengers? Well, passengers can't drink alcohol either under Indiana's open container law. (3) has contents that have been removed. If an alcoholic beverage is open while the motor vehicle is in operation, the motorist commits a Class C infraction.

What are the funny laws in Indiana?

For Your Enjoyment: The 10 Strangest Indiana Laws
  • Mustaches are illegal if the bearer has a tendency to habitually kiss other humans. ...
  • Baths may not be taken between the months of October and March. ...
  • It is forbidden to eat watermelon at the park in Beech Grove. ...
  • It is unlawful to catch a fish with a crossbow.

What is the 20 minute rule for alcohol?

After you've finished one drink, take a 20-minute break before you begin drinking your next one. Waiting 20 minutes can reduce cravings and keep you from going overboard.

Can you walk out of a restaurant with a bottle of wine?

Again, nearly universally, the answer is "yes". With most states requiring a tamper proof bag, and some recommending it. To be safe and protect everyone from liability, a tamper proof bag is a good idea regardless.

Can restaurants do margaritas to go?

A ROUNDUP OF STATE LAWS

California: Restaurants in California can sell cocktails and wine to-go (but not beer), subject to a long list of conditions. For example, the alcohol must be picked up in person (it can't be delivered) and it must be in a container with a sealed lid.