What is the drinking age in the Dominican Republic?
One of the most popular topics that American and Canadian tourists talk over the internet is about the legal drinking age in the Dominican Republic.
The drinking age is the minimum age at which a person can legally consume or purchase alcoholic drinks.
The law covers a wide range of behaviors, such as alcohol consumption, alcohol possession, alcohol sales, and alcohol production and importation.
With so many travelers from the United States and Canada traveling to Punta Cana each year, some vacationers are confused by the legal drinking age on their Dominican Republic vacation.
To avoid running afoul of the law, in this post I’ll cover the drinking age in the Dominican Republic and other variables you should know when it comes to alcohol at resorts.
What is the drinking age in the Dominican Republic?
The drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18 years old.
Yes, that means if you are an American or Canadian tourist who is 18 years of age, you can legally drink alcohol in the Dominican Republic.
There are some exceptions to this rule.
It’s also important to note that many resorts have their own rules when it comes to alcohol consumption.
For example, some all-inclusive resorts may only serve alcohol to guests who are 21 years of age or older.
So, if you’re planning on drinking alcohol at your resort, it’s always best to check with the hotel or resort beforehand to find out their policy.
It is also prohibited for minors to buy and consume alcohol.
Even though the Dominican Republic does have laws that prohibit minors from consuming alcohol, it’s difficult to enforce. Alcoholic beverages available through a legal guardian or accompanying adults pose a challenge with controlling underage drinking.
Violating these laws will not result in hefty fines and almost never in an imprisonment, unless you break other laws like driving under the influence or committing a crime while intoxicated.
Do I need a passport to drink alcohol in the Dominican Republic?
No, you do not need a passport to drink in the Dominican Republic.
However, you will need a passport if you plan on leaving the country.
What is the legal drinking age in Punta Cana?
Punta Cana, like the rest of the Dominican Republic, has a drinking minimum age of 18 years old.
So, if you’re vacationing in Punta Cana and want to enjoy some alcoholic beverages, you can do so legally as long as you are of age.
Keep in mind that many resorts and hotels have their own rules when it comes to alcohol consumption.
Alcohol abstinence around the world
Perhaps surprising is that 57% of adults on Earth (3.113 billion people) did not drink alcohol in 2021.
Almost 44% of global adults have never eaten alcohol.
The report says 85% of Americans and European citizens consumed alcohol in 2021. Only 31.2% were people in Southeast Asia.
What is the minimum drinking age in the All-inclusive Resorts?
All hotels, bars and restaurants in the all-inclusive resorts comply with the Dominican law and have a consumption and minimum purchase age of 18 .
The employees are particularly careful with this third parties as the responsibility falls on the waitress.
The vast majority of the hotels in the resort are allowed to drink under the age of 21.
The employees are very careful and will not put their jobs at risk. The resort follows regulations.
There’s so much happening in these All-inclusive resort facilities that teenagers can’t drink for fun. Additionally, there are many cool drinks for young adults with legal companions.
If a minor attempts to purchase or consume alcohol, hotel management, and staff may confiscate it and call local law enforcement officials.
An all-inclusive vacation is meant to allow you to drink as much alcohol as you want and consume as many adult beverages as possible, but that doesn’t mean you have to consume alcoholic beverages at all.
At most all-inclusive, there are a variety of alternative drinks available, such as tropical cocktails made with fresh fruits and juices or nonalcoholic beers. If you’re not into consuming alcohol, we highly recommend you to give those a shot.
Tell me the minimum drinking age in Punta Cana?
It has happened before in various online forums and even via email. Despite finding many answers I decided this is what I wanted to clarify.
The legal age in a Punta Cana resort or an all-inclusive hotel is 18 years old, just like in the rest of the Caribbean country. Some people say 22 and some say that there’s no restrictions, which is false.
Again, the minimum legal drinking age limit in Punta Cana and throughout the Dominican Republic starts at 18 years old. As simple as that.
All hotels, bars, and restaurants in Punta Cana are subject to the same Dominican laws, so you must be of legal age to consume alcohol
The vast majority of hotels have colored bracelets that help employees to distinguish the options and packages that customers have, among these are the majority of age. The employees pay special attention in this last part because if someone under 18 is served, it is the responsibility of the waitress or bartender.
Can I drink alcohol at the Punta Cana resort if I’m below 18?
No, the Punta Cana Resort doesn’t allow underage drinking on their facilities.
Can I buy alcohol at the Punta Cana resort if I’m below 18?
The legal drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18, so if you’re not of legal drinking age, you won’t be able to purchase alcohol.
Underage drinking in Dominican Republic
In some cases, alcoholics who drink alcohol are subject to felony punishment.
In particular, the parents or guardians are guilty in giving alcohol to children under 18 as well. Purchasing alcohol or drinking it with minor children is also punishable.
It is prohibited for any person to expose or supply alcohol to a minor under the age of 18 years. It is prohibited for any person with a liquor license to sell or supply alcohol beverages to unaccompanied minors under the age of 18 years.
Is the federal government from my country involved in reinforcing the alcohol restriction for minors in the Dominican Republic?
There is no government from any country who is reinforcing the alcohol restriction for minors in Dominican Republic.
The Dominican Republic has its own laws and regulations when it comes to alcohol consumption.
These laws are enforced by the local police force and there have been no reports of any incidents where the government from another country has gotten involved.
What is the punishment if I’m caught drinking alcohol under the age of 18 in the Dominican Republic?
The punishment for consuming alcohol underage in Dominican Republic can vary depending on the severity of the infraction.
In some cases, the punishment may be as simple as a warning or a fine. In more severe cases, however, the punishment may include jail time.
What happens if I get intoxicated with alcohol in any of the hotels in the Dominican Republic?
If you become intoxicated with alcohol in any of the hotels in Dominican Republic, the hotel may ask you to leave the premises.
In some cases, the hotel may also contact the police to file a report.
It is important to note that intoxication is not only a danger to yourself but also to those around you.
Intoxication can lead to accidents and injuries, so it is always best to drink responsibly.
The drinking age in Dominican Republic is 18. However, it is important to drink responsibly and be aware of the consequences of intoxication.
Intoxication can lead to accidents and injuries, so always drink responsibly. Thanks for reading and make sure to enjoy your stay
Some hard lessons
Discussion with parents shows that some teenagers need to learn how to drink moderately, while others under age can get into overindulgence too much for themselves and for others.
Teenagers who drink don’t enjoy an enjoyable, relaxing vacation.
Can you drink at 17 in the Dominican Republic?
The short answer is no.
You can purchase alcoholic beverages and drink alcohol in Dominican if you are 18 or older. The law requires bars to not let any minor enter the facility unless they are in the care of their parents.
What country is the drinking age 13?
The legal age to buy alcoholic beverages or to have them served is between 13 in Burkina Faso and 25 in Eritrea.
What is the drinking age in Dominican Republic resorts?
The legal drinking age in Dominican Republic resorts is 18 years old.
Although many travelers are teenagers, there are some parents who don’t like the idea that young ones can drink alcohol.
What country can you drink at 16?
Many countries allow young people to drink alcohol below 21 or 18.
Austria: 15 for beer and 17 for spirits.
Liechtenstein — 15 to drink the majority of the drinks, 18 to drink alcopops or coolants.
As of 2009, French teenagers could still buy wine, beer, and other fermented beverages at 16.
Do liquor stores in the Dominican Republic sell alcohol to minors?
No, they do not.
The legal drinking age in Dominican Republic is 18 years old.
It is strictly forbidden for any liquor store to sell alcohol to minors.
As far as buying alcohol, you can make an on premise purchase just about anytime of the day or night at convenience stores, as long as you comply with the age limits.
What will happen if you get caught drinking under the age of 18 in the Dominican Republic?
It is strictly prohibited to sell or serve alcohol beverages to a minor under the age of 18 years, either at a bar or a hotel.
The punishment may be a fine or up to six months in prison.
In some cases, both parents and children can be fined or imprisoned if the minor is caught drinking alcohol that was given to them by their parents.
That’s what it’s supposed to be. But in almost all cases, this doesn’t happen.
The penal code prohibits any adult to induce any young person under the age of 18 years, to habitually consume alcohol beverages.
However this means that de facto anyone selling, serving or supplying alcohol should check if the buyer has attained the age of 18 years.
Facts about alcohol consumption under the age
About 90 percent of alcohol consumption in people under 21 involves binge drinking , and a 2016 report states that about 1 in 8 people on the island struggle with alcohol abuse.
Is my driver’s license valid in the Dominican Republic to buy alcohol?
Yes it is valid, but only for the duration of your legal stay–i.e. your 30-day tourist card or visa term.
Am I in the drinking age?
Thinking of the Caribbean and especially in Punta Cana, is thinking of hotels with beach, sun, sand and especially, lots of food, drink and party. And if you are traveling with teenagers the question arises.
If you are 18 or older, in the Dominican Republic you are on the legal drinking age for alcohol in hotels, bars, for public consumption, in private residences, to purchase alcohol.
Frequently asked questions about drinking alcohol in the Dominican Republic
What is the minimum legal drinking age to consume alcohol?
The legal drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18 years old.
Can I drink alcohol in public places?
Yes, you can drink alcohol in public places. However, you should be careful and not drink too much, as it is illegal to be drunk in public.
Can I buy alcohol from a liquor store?
Yes, you can buy alcohol from a liquor store if you are over the age of 18. The liquor store is part of the licensed premises to consume and serving alcohol.
Can I drink alcohol in my hotel room in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol in your hotel room.
Can I drink alcohol on the beach in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol on the beach.
Can I drink alcohol in a nightclub in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol in a nightclub.
Can I drink alcohol in a restaurant in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol in a restaurant
What is the legal blood alcohol limit for driving?
The legal blood alcohol limit for driving in the Dominican Republic is 0.08%.
I am pregnant, can I drink alcohol?
It is not recommended that pregnant women drink alcohol, not in the Dominican Republic or anywhere, period.
Can I bring my own alcohol to the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can bring your own Alcohol to the Dominican Republic. However, it is important to note that you are only allowed to bring a maximum of 2 liters per person.
Do I need a prescription to buy alcohol in the Dominican Republic?
No, you do not need a prescription to buy alcohol in the Dominican Republic.
What is underage consumption of alcohol?
Underage consumption of alcohol is defined as the consumption of alcohol by someone who is under the legal drinking age, which in the Dominican Republic is 18 years old.
Can I get a DUI if I am under the legal drinking age?
Yes, you can get a DUI if you are under the legal drinking age. The legal blood alcohol limit for driving in the Dominican Republic.
What is an on premise sales of alcohol in the Dominican Republic?
An on premise sale of alcohol is defined as the sale of alcohol by a licensed premises to be consumed on the premises.
Can I drink alcohol in my rented car in the Dominican Republic?
No, you cannot drink alcohol in your car. It is illegal to drink and drive in the Dominican Republic.
Can I drink alcohol on the streets of the Dominican Republic?
No, you cannot drink alcohol on the streets. It is illegal to drink in public places in the Dominican Republic.
However, the reality is that most people do even though it’s illegal.
What is an off premise sale of alcohol in the Dominican Republic?
An off premise sale of alcohol is defined as the sale of alcohol for consumption off of the premises.
Can I buy single cans or bottles of beer from a store in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can buy individual cans or bottles of beer from a store.
Can I drink alcohol on the bus in the Dominican Republic?
No, you cannot drink alcohol on the bus. It is illegal to drink in public places like a public or private bus in the Dominican Republic.
Can I drink alcohol on the subway in the Dominican Republic?
No, you cannot drink alcohol on the subway. It is illegal to drink in public places like the subway in the Dominican Republic. Providing alcohol to young persons under the age of 18 years old is illegal.
Can I drink alcohol on a plane going to the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol on a plane going to the Dominican Republic. However, you should be careful and not drink too much, as it is illegal to be drunk in public.
Can I drink alcohol at an all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol at an all-inclusive resort. Most all-inclusive resorts have bars where you can purchase alcoholic beverages.
Can I drink alcohol at an outdoor concert in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol at an outdoor concert.
Can I drink alcohol in a park in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol in a park. You can purchase alcohol in the nearby
Can I drink alcohol on a boat in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol on a boat.
What is the punishment for public intoxication in the Dominican Republic?
The punishment for public intoxication in the Dominican Republic is a fine of RD$1,000-5,000 or up to 6 months in jail.
In the event that someone is caught selling alcohol to minors, the penalties are much harsher and can include a prison sentence.
What is the punishment for public urination in the Dominican Republic?
The punishment for public urination in the Dominican Republic is a fine of RD$1,000-5,000.
Can I drink alcohol at my hotel in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can drink alcohol at your hotel.
If I am from Canada, can I drink liquor if I’m over 21 in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, if you are from Canada and over the age of 21, you can drink liquor in the Dominican Republic.
Can I buy alcohol online and have it shipped to the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can buy alcohol online and have it shipped to the Dominican Republic. However, you should be aware that there is a limit of 3 bottles per person that can be imported into the country.
What is an off premise sale of alcohol in the Dominican Republic?
An off premise sale of alcohol is defined as the sale of alcohol for consumption off of the premises, like for example, a hotel or resort.
Can I drink liquor while on my Airbnb accommodation?
Yes, you can drink liquor while on your Airbnb accommodation, as long as the host is ok and it doesn’t violate their behavior rules.
Do they sell alcohol to adults at the all inclusive resorts?
Yes, all inclusive resorts typically sell alcohol to adults.
Do any stores in the Dominican Republic sell liquor on Sundays?
A lot of stores in this Caribbean country do sell alcohol on Sundays.
Is it common for people to drink alcohol in the streets of the Dominican Republic?
Yes, it is common common for people to drink alcohol in the streets of the Dominican Republic.
Can I bring my own liquor to an all inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can bring your own liquor to an all inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic, but be aware that most resorts have a limit of 2 bottles per person.
Do they check IDs when you buy alcoholic drinks in the Dominican Republic?
Most likely not, unless you definitely look very young.
Can I consume alcoholic drinks during a city tour in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, you can consume alcoholic drinks during a city tour in the Dominican Republic. Most of these tours include food and alcohol in their fees.
Do they sell alcohol at the airport in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, they sell alcohol to adults at the airport in the Dominican Republic.
Is it ok to have an open container of alcohol while walking around in the Dominican Republic?
Technically, you shouldn’t have an open container while walking around. But in tourist areas this is the norm. Also, you can see locals consume alcohol at the “colmados”, which is a small convenience store.
Can I bring my own liquor from Canada?
Yes, you can bring your own liquor from Canada or purchase it at the airport as an adult, as long as you are over 18 years old.
Do they have public urinals in the Dominican Republic?
There are no public urinals in the Dominican Republic, so you will have to use a toilet at a store, supermarket, or a mall nearby. Take this into consideration if you plan to drink while on a tour.
What is the law that specifies the purchase age of alcohol in the Dominican Republic?
What are some popular alcoholic drinks in the Dominican Republic?
Some popular alcoholic drinks in the Dominican Republic include: rum, beer, whisky, and vodka.
Other less common but still available options are: gin, tequila, and cognac.
Where can I buy alcohol in the Dominican Republic?
There are many places where you can buy alcohol in the Dominican Republic.
Some places include: supermarkets, convenience stores, liquor stores, and even some gas stations.
What is the alcohol content in beer in the Dominican Republic?
The average alcohol content in beer in the Dominican Republic is 4.5%.
Is it easy to find a drinking buddy in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, it is quite easy to find a drinking buddy in the Dominican Republic as locals love to drink and party. Just ask around and you’re sure to find someone willing to have a good time with you.
Do they have happy hours in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, some bars and restaurants do offer happy hour specials.
What is the best way to get around when I’m drunk in the Dominican Republic ?
The best way to get around when you’re drunk in the Dominican Republic is by taking a taxi or an Uber. Both are relatively inexpensive and will get you to your destination safely.
Is it safe to drink alcohol in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, it is safe to drink alcohol in the Dominican Republic as long as you drink responsibly and don’t overdo it and put yourself and others in danger.
What should I do if I’m feeling sick after drinking in the Dominican Republic?
If you’re feeling sick after drinking in the Dominican Republic, it’s best to seek medical attention immediately. There are many hospitals and clinics that can help you.
Is there a limit on how much alcohol I can buy in the Dominican Republic?
There is no limit on how much alcohol you can buy in the Dominican Republic.
Do they have clubs and bars in the Dominican Republic?
Yes, there are many clubs and bars in the Dominican Republic, especially in tourist areas.
What is the drinking culture like in the Dominican Republic?
The drinking culture in the Dominican Republic is quite relaxed and casual. It’s not uncommon to see people drinking on the streets or even at work.
As you can see, there are many different rules and regulations when it comes to drinking alcohol in the Dominican Republic.
It is important that you research these before you travel, so that you can be prepared and know what to expect.
As an adult, remember to always drink responsibly and never drink and drive.
If you are under the age of 18, it is best to refrain from drinking alcohol, for your own safety while abroad. If you do choose to drink, be sure to do so responsibly and in moderation.
Also read – How to fill out the arrival E-Ticket for the Dominican Republic
