Mexico is an enormously popular destination for many U.S. residents. Not only does it offer gorgeous beaches, delicious food, and fascinating history, but it also has a fun, lively atmosphere that appeals to a lot of people.
One of the reasons Mexico is popular as a party destination is that it has a lower drinking age than the United States. What is the youngest drinking age in Mexico?
In this article we’ll tell you all about the Mexico drinking age, including answering questions like can you drink at 16 in Mexico?
Legal Drinking Age in Mexico
The legal Mexico drinking age is 18. This is true for the whole country, which means that the drinking age in Cancun Mexico is also 18, as well as other popular spots like Los Cabos, Cozumel, Riviera Maya, and Puerto Vallarta.
It also means that the Mexico drinking age at resorts is 18, whether they are all-inclusive resorts or not. Resorts will check your age on your ID, whether it’s a driver’s license or passport, when you check in. At an all-inclusive resort, where alcoholic drinks are generally free, anyone who is under the Mexico drinking age will usually get a colored band so they can’t be served by mistake.
Many bars or restaurants in Mexico will not ask for ID, however. They tend to judge based on appearance whether you look old enough to drink.
If you are under the legal drinking age in Mexico of 18, though, don’t take this as permission to order a beer. You can get in trouble with the police if you are caught. Tourist areas are commonly patrolled by police or even the military, so being caught drinking underage in Mexico is a definite possibility.
If you are 18 or over, it’s best to carry your driver’s license with you at all times so that you can prove you meet the Mexico drinking age.
Also, be sure to drink responsibly. It is against the law to be drunk in public or to have open containers outside of a resort, bar, or restaurant. Don’t spoil your Mexican holiday by getting arrested.
Also, be aware that there have been cases of tainted alcohol in Mexico causing injury or death. Only drink at reputable resorts, bars, and restaurants, and ask to see the bottle the bartender is pouring from if you’re concerned.
Other important safety tips to follow in Mexico when drinking are to always keep an eye on your drink (so no one can tamper with it); don’t accept drinks from strangers; don’t drink or stay out late alone; and don’t drink and drive. Also, stay hydrated by drinking water when drinking alcohol–but be sure it’s bottled water since tap water in Mexico can cause illness.
Drinking Age in Mexico with Parents
For families traveling with teenagers or young adults who are underage in their home country, the rules are the same. The drinking age in Mexico when with parents is still 18, even if kids have their parents’ permission.
Can you drink at 16 in Mexico?
No, you can’t drink at 16 in Mexico, regardless of whether you’re with your parents or anyone else who is 18 or over. The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 for everyone.
Where is the drinking age 16? Sixteen-year-olds can drink in Cuba, Grenada, St. Lucia, and European countries like Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and Austria. However, there are often limits as to what 16-year-olds can drink, such as beer only.