Underage drinking laws can be confusing. They can change over time and vary by state. Parents or those in a parenting role and teens are often unclear about the laws and have misconceptions about the consequences of breaking those laws.

Let’s explore the underage drinking laws in Washington State and discuss scenarios that you might encounter as a parent or someone in a parenting role. Please note that certain localities may have stricter laws (ordinances), that laws change, and that this information is not a substitute for legal advice.

● It is illegal for someone under the age of 21 to possess, consume, or otherwise acquire any alcohol without parental consent when not for medical reasons or in connection with a religious service.^1

● It is illegal for someone under the age of 21 to be in a public place or to be in a motor vehicle in a public place while exhibiting the effects of having consumed alcohol.^1

● It is illegal to use a false ID to buy alcohol.^1

● It is illegal for someone under the age of 21 to operate a motor vehicle while affected by alcohol, drugs, or both. This includes both legal and illegal drugs, including prescription medication and over-the-counter drugs.^2

● Someone under the age of 21 is not allowed in taverns, lounges, or other age-restricted areas.^1

● It is illegal to sell, give, or otherwise supply alcohol to any person under the age of 21 unless you are the parent/guardian of the child and the alcohol is consumed in your presence.^1

● It is illegal to permit any person under the age of 21 to consume alcohol on your premises or any premises under your control unless you are the parent/guardian of the child and the alcohol is consumed in your presence.^1

o "Premises" includes real property, houses, buildings, other structures, motor vehicles, and watercraft.^1

Washington State law allows someone under the age of 21 to possess, consume, or otherwise acquire alcohol when it is:^1

● Provided by the minor's parent or guardian and consumed in the presence of the parent or guardian and not in a public place where alcohol is sold.

● Given for medicinal purposes by a parent, guardian, physician, or dentist.

● Given in connection with religious services, the amount consumed is the minimal amount necessary for the religious service.

Possessing, consuming, or otherwise acquiring any alcohol when under the age of 21 can result in a gross misdemeanor charge. For details on penalties associated with misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor charges, see Washington State Code 9A.20 RCW on leg.wa.gov. Children/Teens who are charged with a Minor in Possession (MIP) or a Consumption of Alcohol (MIC) charge, and it is their first offense, may be eligible for a court diversion program as an alternative to prosecution.

It is a gross misdemeanor offense to sell, give, or otherwise supply alcohol to someone under the age of 21.^1

What if I take my child/teen into a bar? Can I provide them with alcohol there?

No. You cannot provide someone under the age of 21 with alcohol in a public place known to sell alcoholic beverages.

What about at a restaurant?

No. You cannot provide someone