Mexico is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and delicious drinks. However, before you head to Mexico to enjoy the nightlife, it is essential to know the legal drinking age in the country.
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about the drinking age in Mexico, including the legal age, the different laws and regulations, and the penalties for violating them.
What is the legal drinking age in Mexico?
In Mexico, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. It means that you must be 18 years old or above to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages legally.
However, unlike in the United States and some other countries where the legal drinking age is strictly enforced, the drinking age in Mexico is not always enforced rigorously. It is not uncommon to see young people drinking alcohol in public places or nightclubs.
Drinking Laws and Regulations in Mexico
Despite the relaxed attitude towards alcohol consumption in Mexico, there are still specific laws and regulations that both locals and tourists must adhere to when it comes to drinking. Below are some of the drinking laws and regulations that you should know:
- Public Drinking: Drinking in public places like parks, streets, or beaches is illegal in Mexico. If caught drinking in public, you can be fined or detained.
- Age Verification: Vendors selling alcoholic beverages are required by law to verify the age of the person buying the drink. It is common for vendors to ask for identification, so it’s best to carry your ID with you when buying alcohol.
- Drunk Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol is a serious offense in Mexico, and the penalties for violating this law are severe. If caught, you can be fined, detained, or even sent to jail.
- Serving Hours: Bars and nightclubs in Mexico have specific serving hours that they must adhere to. Most bars and clubs stop serving alcohol at 3 am.
Penalties for Violating Drinking Laws in Mexico
If you violate the drinking laws in Mexico, you can face severe penalties, including fines, detention, or even imprisonment. Here are some of the consequences of violating drinking laws in Mexico:
- Fines: Depending on the offense, fines for violating drinking laws can range from a few hundred pesos to several thousand.
- Detention: If you are caught drinking in public or violating other drinking laws, you may be detained by the authorities. Detention can last for several hours or even days.
- Imprisonment: In extreme cases, violating drinking laws in Mexico can lead to imprisonment. This is usually the case if you are caught driving under the influence of alcohol.
Always Drink Responsibly
When you’re planning to drink alcohol with your friends or family during your vacation in Mexico, it’s important to always drink responsibly. There are a few ways to ensure you’re staying safe while enjoying a few drinks.
First and foremost, consider taking an Uber or a taxi when traveling to and from your destination. This will help ensure that everyone in your group gets home safely. Additionally, depending on the vacation package, some hotels provide free shuttles that you can use to get to and from your destination.
If you’re staying at Hotel Xcaret Resorts, you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, but you don’t have to worry about driving because you’re within the hotel. The staff at the resort are happy to help you find the best places to enjoy a few drinks.
No matter where you decide to drink, it’s important to remember to always drink responsibly. As long as you take the necessary precautions, you can have a great time drinking with your friends or family on vacation in Mexico.