Yes, purchasing Everclear (190-proof ethanol) is legal in New Mexico but strictly regulated under state alcohol laws, requiring compliance with the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department (RLD) and local county ordinances. Sales are permitted only through licensed liquor stores, with 190-proof ethanol classified as “ethyl alcohol” under NMSA § 60-3A-1, subject to excise taxes and age verification (21+). Recent 2026 amendments to the Alcohol Beverage Control Act (ABCA) impose additional inventory tracking for high-proof spirits, aligning with federal TTB guidelines.
Key Regulations for Purchasing Everclear in New Mexico
- Licensing Requirements: Only state-licensed liquor stores (per NMSA § 60-3A-2) may sell 190-proof ethanol. Unlicensed retailers face penalties under RLD enforcement actions.
- Age and Quantity Limits: Buyers must be 21+ and may purchase no more than 1 liter per transaction, per ABCA § 60-3A-10, to curb diversion risks.
- Tax and Labeling Compliance: Excise taxes (currently $1.70/gallon for spirits) apply, and products must display TTB-approved labels, including “poison” warnings per 27 CFR § 5.32.