What is the Legal Drinking Age in Mexico?
To drink and purchase alcohol legally in Mexico, you must be able to prove you are at least 18 years old. This is the legal drinking age throughout Mexico. It applies to all alcoholic beverages, including beer and wine. Besides the drinking age being lower in Mexico than in the US, another difference is that alcohol is available for purchase at different times and days, depending on where you are in the country.
For example, in Cancun you will not be able to legally buy packaged alcohol after 11 p.m. Bars may receive a special permit to sell drinks later than that, however. In many border cities, you cannot purchase liquor after 3 p.m. on Sunday until 7 a.m. Monday. Be sure and know the rules of your destination before you leave.
If you are planning a trip to our sunny southern neighbor and you’ll be going after your 18th birthday, you will be able to buy and drink a Cerveza or margarita — if you want to! You’ll need to have an acceptable form of ID, such as a passport or driver’s license. There are a few other items to keep in mind as you embark on your journey to Mexico. Keep reading to find out more about the laws and customs regarding drinking alcohol in Mexico.
Remember, if you are driving across the Mexico-United States border, you will need Mexican car insurance. This doesn’t have anything to do with your ability to consume potent potables, but it is important. Your US auto insurance is not valid in Mexico and you’ll need to purchase the legal coverage before you drive to the nearest licorería (liquor store).
In many cases, getting caught driving while under the influence will void your Mexican car insurance policy. Having an accident while driving intoxicated in Mexico will be a life-changing experience — and not for the better. If you plan to drink, always have a designated driver or get a taxi or an Uber.
Check with the professionals at Sanborn’s Mexico Car Insurance for cheap Mexican insurance online and purchase it before you leave – one less thing to cross off your list before you hit the border.
Regional Variations: Legal Drinking Ages Across States
Like the US, the legal drinking age is consistent across the country. Whatever state you find yourself in, the legal age to purchase and consume alcohol is 18. In the US, the legal drinking age is 21 and there are restrictions around when you can buy it, as well. In contrast, not only can you buy and drink alcohol at a younger age in Mexico, but each state and metropolitan area may have different regulations around when alcohol is available for sale.
If you are planning a beachy vacation at one of the premier party places, such as Cancun, Tulum, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, keep in mind that even though you can drink, you still need to drink responsibly — not only for your own health and wellbeing, but to stay within the country’s laws.
Why Knowing the Drinking Age is Important for Tourists
As a visitor to a foreign country, it’s important to understand the laws that govern that country. Some Americans may be confused with this concept since Mexico is close and shares a border with the US. However, Mexico is a sovereign nation with its own rules and regulations. When you visit another country, it’s helpful to know the rules and understand the customs.
In America, those caught serving alcohol to underage patrons face steep consequences and the same is true in Mexico. Bars serving liquor to minors can be shut down. If you are caught drunk in the streets or drinking under the Mexico drinking age, you may go to jail. And if you are caught driving drunk, your car will be towed and you will go to jail. So, you see, it is important to understand that just because the drinking age is lower, there are still rules and responsibilities you must maintain.
Keep in mind there are DUI checkpoints in most metropolitan and touristy areas. In Mexico City, these checkpoints are in operation seven days a week. If you are stopped and found to be operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content above .08%, you’ll be detained (arrested), fined, and your vehicle will be confiscated.
Exploring Mexico's Rich Drinking Culture Responsibly
Mexicans enjoy their Cerveza. You may think tequila (or mescal) is the most popular beverage there, but you would be wrong. This beer-loving country is in the top 30 for beer-drinking nations worldwide.
You may also be surprised to learn that Mexico has been growing grape vines for wine since the arrival of the Spanish conquistadores. Now, a wine tasting in Baja’s Valle de Guadalupe, one of the premier spots for wineries, is on the list of vino aficionados from around the world.
And unlike most Americans, who seem to think tequila is best thrown back with a spritz of lime and some salt, many Mexicans prefer to savor their distilled blue agave by sipping and savoring the fiery nectar.
Drinking is part of the culture in Mexico and, just like anywhere else, can be a problem if not handled responsibly. If you are just turning 18 and drinking for the first time legally, protect yourself while vacationing in Mexico.
Tips for Responsible Drinking While Traveling in Mexico
As mentioned, Mexico has some rules and regulations around consuming alcohol. Here are a few to keep in mind while you enjoy your margarita (no salt, ice).
· Drunk in Public is no Bueno (no good!): In fact, it is illegal to be drunk in public. You can get arrested if you are determined to be drunk in public. If you choose to drink, stay in the bar or resort and take a taxi to get around. For your own safety (and for the sake of the law), don’t walk around at night, especially if you are not sober.
· Open Container in Public are Illegal: You cannot walk around the streets of a Mexican city or town with an open container of alcohol — or even an alcoholic drink. Most resorts allow you to walk around the premises with alcohol just fine, so if you feel like drinking and walking at the same time, stay insde your resort property.
· Drinking and Driving is Illegal: Just as in the US, never drive while you are drunk. Your car may be towed, and you may go to jail. Having this happen in your hometown is bad enough, but it is exponentially worse in a foreign country.
If you are going to drink, don’t drink to the level of inebriation. And if you do, make sure you have friends around you who will take care of you.
Key Considerations for Travelers in 2024
Most resorts and resort-type places, and many touristy destinations, are perfectly safe. Thousands of Americans travel to Mexico every year by driving across the border, flying and even walking. But the US Department of State has issued travel advisories for certain parts of Mexico. Make sure you avoid the more dangerous areas and stick to your travel plans.
It’s best to always stay with friends or family when out and about, avoid travel after dark, don’t flash money or jewelry and act with courtesy. Never drive while drunk, in Mexico or anywhere.
The Impact of Drinking Age Laws on Mexican Car Insurance
Before you leave, make sure you understand your Mexico insurance policy. In some instances, being under the influence may void your policy, as well as engaging in illegal behavior. Drinking responsibly should not affect your policy at all, so don’t drive drunk and don’t drink unless you are 18.
If you are driving to Mexico, the professionals at Sanborn’s Mexico Insurance have been helping people get legal auto insurance for more than 75 years. Check them out online for affordable Mexico car insurance, stop by one of their offices on your way to the border or give them a call at 800-222-0158 for a simple solution.