Alcohol, The Law and Your Rights
UK Drinking Laws for Under-18s
What is the legal drinking age?
In the UK, the legal drinking age is 18. This means that anyone under 18 cannot buy alcohol. It is also illegal for someone under 18 to drink alcohol in a licensed premises on their own.Can 16 and 17 year olds drink alcohol with a meal?
Young people aged 16 or 17 can drink beer, wine or cider in a restaurant, but only when they are with an adult and having a meal.Can under-18s drink alcohol at home?
It is not illegal for someone aged 5 to 17 to drink alcohol at home or on private premises. However, this is not recommended for health reasons.Drinking in public
If someone under 18 is caught drinking alcohol in public, they may be stopped by the police. In some situations, this could lead to alcohol being taken away, a fine or arrest.
Parents and carers also have a responsibility to help young people understand the risks linked to alcohol.
Buying Alcohol and ID
Proof of age
If someone looks under 25, staff may ask them for proof of age before selling alcohol.
Accepted forms of ID can include:
- Passport
- Driving license
- PASS card
Challenge 25
hallenge 25 is a policy used to help prevent underage alcohol sales. This means that if a customer looks under 25, staff are expected to ask for ID to check they are old enough to buy alcohol.Alcohol at Festivals and Events
Entry policies
Many festivals have strict rules around alcohol and drugs. Some events may refuse entry if someone breaks these rules.Searches and safety
Festivals may have entry checks or searches to help keep people safe.Staying safe at festivals
Dehydration can be a common issue at festivals, especially on hot days. It is important to stay hydrated and be aware of what you are drinking.
Drink spiking can also happen, so it is important to stay alert and look after your drinks.
Safe spaces and support
Events should provide harm reduction information and safe spaces where people can go for support if they need help.Alcohol on Holiday
- Alcohol laws are different in different countries.
- Do not assume that UK alcohol laws apply when travelling abroad.
- Legal drinking ages vary around the world. In some countries, the legal age may be 18, 19, 20 or 21. Some countries also ban alcohol completely.
- Rules may also depend on culture, religion and public safety laws.
- Before travelling, it is important to check the alcohol laws for the country you are visiting.
Depending on the situation, this could include:
- Alcohol being taken away
- Being stopped by the police
- Being refused entry to an event
- A fine
- Arrest in some situations
The rules are there to protect people and reduce harm, especially for young people.