What’s the Legal Drinking Age in Mexico? (Here’s What You Need to Know About Drinking in Mexico)
wondering, WHAT’S THE Legal DRINKING AGE IN MEXICO?
If you’re unsure at what age you can drink in Mexico, you’re in the right place. This article covers the Mexico drinking age limit, and all things Mexico alcohol-related.
To answer the question, the legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 — but there are other things you’ll want to know when it comes to drinking in Mexico.
Ready for a deep dive into Mexico’s alcohol culture, laws, and what you should know as a visitor about drinking in Mexico? Let’s dive in!
What is the legal drinking age in Mexico?
The legal age in Mexico to drink is 18. This age limit to drink in Mexico is consistent across all states, and applies to buying and consuming alcohol.
The law is clear whether in stores, restaurants, bars, or nightclubs: You must be at least 18 to purchase and consume alcohol in Mexico.
Young people, and those who appear young, should expect to be asked for photo identification to verify their age.
Typically, a driver’s license or passport will be enough to show that you are legal age to drink in Mexico. Of course, these need to be valid, non-expired documents.
The age requirement applies when purchasing alcohol in any setting. This includes at supermarkets, where beer, wines, and spirits are widely available.
It’s also a standard practice in resorts, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs — so always have your ID handy to ensure you can partake responsibly and legally.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Can minors drink in Mexico when accompanied by parents?
No — Minors cannot legally drink in Mexico, even if they’re with their parents.
The drinking age in Mexico with parents is still 18 years old. The law applies uniformly across the country, regardless of the situation.
Whether you’re with your parents at a resort, partying in Cancun, or ordering a drink in Oaxaca, the Mexican drinking age is the same wherever you go.
And yes, that means the drinking age in Mexico all inclusive resorts is still 18 — and parents should be aware of these regulations to avoid legal issues during their stay.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Do they check IDs in Mexico?
Yes — In Mexico, it is common for establishments serving alcohol to check IDs, especially in tourist areas and cities.
The legal drinking age for Mexico is 18, and bars, clubs, and stores are required to verify the age to prevent underage drinking.
However, enforcement of these checks can vary depending on the location and the type of establishment.
Some places might be stricter, particularly in tourist areas and major cities, to adhere to the law and avoid penalties.
It’s always a good idea to carry a valid form of photo ID, such as a passport or a driver’s license, when you plan to purchase alcohol or enter venues where alcohol is served.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Are drinking laws enforced in Mexico?
Yes — In Mexico, drinking laws are enforced, but the level of enforcement can vary significantly between different regions and settings.
Generally, urban areas and tourist-heavy locations see stricter drinking law enforcement than rural areas.
Authorities in cities and popular tourist destinations are more vigilant about checking IDs and adhering to legal drinking hours to maintain public order and safety.
During special events or holidays, law enforcement is often more present to ensure that the “ley seca” or dry laws are respected.
These laws prohibit the sale of alcohol during specific times, such as elections or national holidays, to promote safety and public order.
While there is a framework for enforcing drinking laws in Mexico, the actual practice can be inconsistent.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Buying Alcohol In Mexico
In Mexico, alcohol can be bought at various places, including supermarkets, liquor stores, convenience stores, bars, and restaurants.
However, specific regulations regarding the times during which alcohol can be sold vary by location.
Generally, alcohol sales in stores like supermarkets and convenience stores occur from early morning until late at night.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
What time can you buy alcohol in Mexico?
Though the answer to When can you buy alcohol in Mexico? question varies, the general cutoff time for alcohol sales in Mexico is usually 11pm.
In some areas, supermarkets and convenience stores start selling alcohol as early as 9am, and can continue until 11pm or midnight.
On Sundays, these hours might be reduced. Though they often start at the same time, they end earlier in the evening at around 5pm.
Bars and restaurants often have a broader window through which they can sell alcohol.
For example, in the state of Quintana Roo, bars and restaurants in key tourist areas like Cancún and Playa del Carmen can serve alcohol until as late as 2am.
Each state in Mexico may have a time limit on selling alcoholic beverages. Therefore, it’s best to research the laws and regulations of your destination.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Ley Seca: Mexico’s Alcohol Ban on Election Days
It’s also important to note that there are occasional restrictions during specific events or holidays.
For instance, during elections, there might be a temporary ban on alcohol sales to ensure a sober voting process. These are called “ley seca,” or dry law periods.
When planning to purchase alcohol in Mexico, it’s wise to be aware of these local rules as they can affect your ability to buy alcoholic beverages during your visit.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Is it legal to drink alcohol in public in Mexico?
No — Drinking alcohol in public places in Mexico is prohibited and technically illegal, though it is tolerated in a few places.
Most municipalities have regulations against public alcohol consumption on the streets, in parks, or other public spaces.
This law is intended to maintain public order and safety. However, enforcement can vary widely.
In tourist areas, there may be some leniency, particularly in places like the beachfront, where tourists commonly consume alcoholic drinks.
My recommendation is that if you’re going to be drinking alcohol in Mexico, don’t walk around with open alcohol containers. If you get caught, you can get in trouble.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Is It legal to be publicly intoxicated in Mexico?
No — Being publicly intoxicated in Mexico is against the law.
Public intoxication is viewed as a disturbance to public order and can result in police intervention.
Authorities aim to prevent any activities leading to disorder or endangering others.
Similar to public drinking, the enforcement of this law can vary by location, but it’s more rigorously enforced during public events or in more conservative communities.
Driving and Drinking Laws in Mexico
Mexico Blood Alcohol Limits
In Mexico, the general blood alcohol content or concentration (BAC) limit for driving is 0.08% (0.8 grams of alcohol per liter of blood).
However, this limit is lower in several Mexican states, such as Aguascalientes, Chiapas, Distrito Federal (Mexico City), Estado de México, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, and Chihuahua, where more stringent standards apply.
Some states may have a zero-tolerance policy for all drivers, while others may have a slightly higher but reduced limit compared to the national standard of 0.08%.
These variations are typically set by local governments to address specific concerns related to road safety in their areas.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Penalties for Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is considered a serious criminal offense in Mexico.
Penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) can include fines, jail time, and, in severe cases, deportation for non-citizens.
Additionally, if involved in a traffic accident while under the influence, the consequences can become significantly more severe, potentially including long-term imprisonment.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Zero Tolerance Policy
Mexico enforces a zero-tolerance policy for novice drivers and drivers of public vehicles.
This means that any detectable level of alcohol in these drivers can lead to DUI charges.
This policy is part of broader efforts to curb road accidents and ensure road safety while driving in Mexico.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Breathalyzer Tests
Mexican police are empowered to conduct breathalyzer tests on drivers they suspect of driving under the influence.
Refusal to comply with a breathalyzer test can lead to penalties similar to those for failing the test.
This is part of the nationwide enforcement strategy to manage and reduce drunk driving incidents.
3 Tips For Saving Money On Drinks In Mexico
Local beverages can add to the experience when traveling through Mexico without breaking the bank.
Alcohol, a staple in many Mexican social settings, can vary greatly in price depending on where and when you buy it.
Here are three strategic ways to save money on drinks during your visit.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
1. Buy Alcohol From a Store
Purchasing alcohol from a supermarket or local store is usually much cheaper than drinking at a restaurant or bar.
Stores often have a broader range of local brands that cost less than imported ones.
Buying in bulk can also lead to additional savings. Enjoy your drinks in a comfortable setting like your accommodation or a picnic in a permissible area.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
2. Drink at Small Local Bars
Small, local bars often offer lower prices than tourist-heavy locations or large establishments.
These bars typically serve local favorites and may host special nights with discounted drinks.
Engaging with locals at these venues saves money and can enrich your travel experience with authentic interactions and stories.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
3. Enjoy Happy Hours
Many bars and restaurants in Mexico feature happy hours that offer significant drink discounts.
These usually occur in the late afternoon to early evening. Happy hours are a great way to try out different cocktails and beverages at a fraction of the regular price.
Checking the times and specials in advance can help you plan your outings to coincide with these deals, maximizing your savings.
9 Safety Tips for Drinking in Mexico
Besides tips on saving money on drinking, there are a couple of safety tips you need to take into consideration, even if you are the legal drinking age Mexico requires.
1. Stick to Well-Known and Busy Establishments
Choose well-known and frequently visited bars and restaurants when choosing where to drink.
These places are more likely to adhere to safety standards and serve quality beverages.
They also often have better security, reducing the risk of theft or personal safety issues.
Familiar venues are especially important in less tourist-friendly areas, where local knowledge about reputable establishments is invaluable.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
2. Stay Hydrated and Protect Against Heat
Mexico’s warm climate can amplify the effects of alcohol, leading to faster dehydration. If you plan to party hard in Mexico, I recommend Liquid IV.
This “hydration multiplier” replenishes your electrolytes, and is an Amazon best-seller with 100,000+ positive reviews.
Besides that, drink plenty of water throughout the day and while consuming alcohol to stay hydrated.
Avoiding excessive sun exposure during peak hours and wearing sunscreen can protect you from heat-related illnesses.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
3. Watch Your Drink Being Made
Always watch your drink being made to make sure that nothing is added unexpectedly. Drink spiking is a serious concern worldwide, including in tourist areas.
Seeing your drink prepared in front of you can prevent this issue and allow you to interact with the bartender, who can provide insights into local specialties and ingredients.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
4. Be Cautious with Ice
In Mexico, water is not potable, meaning you can’t drink it. So, it’s important to be cautious about consuming ice in your drinks.
Though the vast majority of reputable bars, restaurants, and hotels use purified water to make their ice, you can never be 100% sure that all establishments do.
Consuming ice made from tap water can pose a risk of gastrointestinal illnesses if the water is not properly treated.
To stay safe, ask the staff if the ice is made with purified water or bottled water before accepting drinks served with ice.
Alternatively, you can request no ice in your drinks — and many visitors use this as a measure to avoid getting sick in Mexico.
In more rural or less-developed areas, it’s generally advisable to avoid ice unless you are certain of the water’s quality.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
5. Avoid Drinking Too Much
It’s easy to get carried away, especially when you’re on vacation, but knowing your limits is important.
Overindulging can impair your judgment and make you vulnerable to theft or worse. Set a limit for how much you will drink before you start, and stick to it.
Always eat enough food and drink water alongside alcoholic beverages to mitigate the effects of alcohol.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
6. Don’t Leave Drinks Unattended
Always keep your drink with you to avoid any risk of tampering.
Leaving drinks unattended, even for a short period, can make them vulnerable to being spiked with substances that could cause harm.
Finish your drink before leaving your table, or take it with you. If you must leave your drink behind, it is safer to order a new one when you return.
This simple precaution helps protect against the risks associated with drink spiking and ensures that your social experience remains safe and enjoyable.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
7. Use Safe Transportation
Never drive after drinking! Instead, rely on reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps in Mexico like Uber and Didi to safely return to your accommodation.
Many areas in Mexico offer 24/7 taxi services, which are generally safe and reliable.
If possible, have your hotel or restaurant call a cab to ensure it’s from a trusted company.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
8. Keep Valuables Secure
When out drinking, keep your valuables secure and minimize what you carry.
It’s best to leave passports, excessive cash, and expensive jewelry in a safe at your hotel. Only bring the money you plan to spend and a copy of your ID.
Always keep your belongings within sight and reach, especially in crowded places.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
9. Get Travel Insurance for Mexico
If you plan on partying, you know that sometimes things happen. You’ll want travel insurance for all the unexpected things that come up while traveling.
From getting sick to miscalculating that epic jump you thought you could totally make— you’ll regret not having it should something go awry.
I use SafetyWing Travel Insurance for myself.
They offer great coverage and AMAZING rates, with plans that start at about $35 per month for everything listed above and then some!
While most travelers don’t need a full month of coverage, they’re still cheaper than nearly every other insurance provider (including World Nomads).
Legal Drinking Age in Mexico: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the legal limit in Mexico?
In Mexico, the BAC (blood alcohol concentration) is 0.08%, which is 0.8 grams of alcohol per liter of blood.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
What is the legal drinking age in Cancun?
The legal drinking age in Cancun is 18 years old.
In fact, the answer to the What’s the legal drinking age in Mexico Cancun or anywhere else? question is the same.
The youngest drinking age in Mexico is 18. There is no exception, regardless of whether you’re in Mexico City, Oaxaca City, Cancun, or anywhere else.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
What is the drinking age in Mexico resorts?
No matter where you’re drinking in Mexico, the legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old.
This applies uniformly across the country, regardless of whether the setting is a public place, a private venue, or a resort.
While some resorts may implement their own policies for serving alcohol to guests, they still must comply with Mexican law, which requires individuals to be at least 18-years-old to consume alcohol legally.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
Is the drinking age in Mexico 16?
No — The legal Mexico drinking age is 18, and it is illegal to consume alcohol at 16.
If you’re wondering, Where is the drinking age 16? There are several countries allowing individuals to drink as early as 16-years-old.
These countries include Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cuba, Luxembourg, Panama, Serbia, and Zimbabwe.
Austria, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Morocco, Russia, and Uganda allow 16-year-olds to drink alcohol, but there are some restrictions.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
What is Ley Seca in Mexico?
Ley seca, meaning “dry law,” is implemented during Mexican elections when there’s a temporary ban on selling alcohol to ensure a peaceful and orderly voting process.
The ley seca usually goes into effect 24 hours before an election, and continues throughout election day.
Since most elections are on Saturdays, this means alcohol-free weekends, unless you plan ahead.
drinking age in Mexico Guide
What is the smoking age in Mexico?
In Mexico, the legal age for purchasing and smoking tobacco products is 18-years-old.
This age limit is enforced to prevent minors from accessing tobacco, similar to regulations on alcohol consumption.
It’s required by law for vendors to check identification to verify age before selling any tobacco products to individuals.
Final Thoughts: Legal Drinking Age in Mexico
As I’ve been living in Mexico since 2018, I get a lot of questions from my younger readers seeking info about how drinking in Mexico compares to other countries.
If you’re ever in doubt about the What is the legal age to drink in Mexico? question — the answer is 18 years old in all circumstances, and in all places in Mexico.
Understanding the minimum age requirements for drinking can help tourists and travelers ensure they comply with local laws.
For instance, while the United States enforces a legal drinking age of 21, many are surprised to learn that the legal drinking age in Europe varies, typically being lower at 18, or even 16 in certain countries.
When considering the drinking age by country, it’s evident that each nation sets its regulations based on cultural, legal, and societal norms.
Mexico’s drinking age is set at 18, aligned with many other countries globally, and it’s crucial for both residents and visitors to respect and adhere to this law to enjoy their time without legal troubles.
By learning and respecting the drinking age in Mexico, you can adhere to the laws and have fun while traveling through this amazing country. 🥂 Cheers!