How Much Alcohol Can I Bring into the United States? 2026 Duty-Free Limit

How much alcohol can I bring into the United States duty-free?

1 L duty-free (USD 800 exemption); 150 ml under USD 200 exemption. The allowance applies from age 21 (alcohol). Anything over the allowance must be declared, and duty and tax may apply.

Source: cbp.gov, checked 5 Nov 2026

Can I carry alcohol on the plane to the United States?

Alcohol up to 24% ABV (beer, wine): carry-on yes, but carry-on liquids limit of the departure airport applies; checked bag yes; No aviation limit; destination customs allowance applies. Source: faa.gov, checked 5 Nov 2026

Alcohol 24-70% ABV (spirits): carry-on yes, but carry-on liquids limit applies; checked bag yes; Max 5 L per container and 5 L per passenger, unopened retail packaging. Source: faa.gov, checked 5 Nov 2026

Alcohol over 70% ABV (e.g. 151-proof rum, grain alcohol): carry-on no; checked bag no; Forbidden. Source: faa.gov, checked 5 Nov 2026

Drinks in your carry-on also count toward the airport's liquids limit unless bought after security.

Airline alcohol rules for flights from the United States

American Airlines: Over 70% ABV banned; 24-70% max 5 L per passenger in checked bags (retail packaging, unopened); carry-on subject to TSA liquids. Source: aa.com, checked 6 Nov 2026