If you are planning to visit or move to Canada, one of the first laws you should understand is the Legal Drinking Age in Canada. Unlike countries with one national drinking law, Canada’s drinking age depends on each province and territory.
This guide explains the drinking age across Canada, where you can legally buy alcohol, what IDs are accepted, rules for tourists, and the consequences of underage drinking.
Legal Drinking Age in Canada by Province and Territory
Canada does not have a single national drinking age. Instead, every province and territory sets its own law. Here’s a clear breakdown:
| Province / Territory | Legal Drinking Age in Canada | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alberta | 18 | Applies to buying & consuming alcohol |
| Manitoba | 18 | ID required at bars & stores |
| Quebec | 18 | One of the lowest in Canada |
| British Columbia (BC) | 19 | Strict enforcement |
| Ontario | 19 | No exceptions |
| Saskatchewan | 19 | Similar to Ontario |
| Nova Scotia | 19 | Applies to all alcohol sales |
| New Brunswick | 19 | Proof of age required |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | 19 | Applies everywhere |
| Prince Edward Island (PEI) | 19 | Strictest enforcement |
| Yukon | 19 | Northern territory |
| Northwest Territories | 19 | Applies to bars & stores |
| Nunavut | 19 | Local rules may apply |
Key Points to Remember
- The legal drinking age in Canada is 18 in Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec.
- Everywhere else, the drinking age is 19.
- Carry valid government-issued ID if you plan to buy alcohol.
- Rules apply to both purchase and consumption.
Where Can You Buy Alcohol in Canada?
Alcohol sales are tightly regulated. Depending on where you are:
- Liquor Control Boards (e.g., LCBO in Ontario, SAQ in Québec)
- Private liquor stores (common in Alberta)
- Grocery stores (in some provinces, for beer and wine only)
You must show valid photo ID to prove your age. Most stores will check ID if you look under 25.
Accepted ID for Buying Alcohol
You need government-issued ID that shows your photo, date of birth, and official seal. Common IDs include:
- Passport
- Driver’s License
- Provincial Photo ID Card
- Canadian Citizenship Card
- Permanent Resident Card
Digital IDs or student cards are usually not accepted.
Can You Drink Underage with Parents?
- In most provinces, the answer is no. Parental permission does not allow underage drinking in bars, restaurants, or stores.
- In Québec, minors may sometimes drink at home with parents, but selling alcohol to anyone under 18 is still illegal.
Drinking Laws for Tourists in Canada
Yes, tourists can drink alcohol in Canada as long as they are of legal age in the province they are visiting. The laws apply equally to residents and visitors.
Consequences of Underage Drinking
If caught drinking underage in Canada, you may face:
- Fines
- Confiscation of alcohol
- Bans from licensed venues
- Criminal charges (in serious or repeated cases)
Businesses that sell or serve alcohol to minors can also lose their liquor license.
Drinking in Public – Is It Allowed?
In general, drinking in public is not allowed in Canada unless you are in:
- Licensed areas (bars, pubs, restaurants)
- Special events or festivals with permits
Some cities, like Vancouver and Montréal, have begun allowing alcohol in certain parks during specific hours, but rules vary. Always check local signs or government websites.
Final Takeaway
- Legal drinking age in Canada is either 18 or 19, depending on the province.
- You must show valid government-issued ID to purchase alcohol.
- Tourists can drink if they meet the local legal age.
- Public drinking is mostly restricted, except in licensed areas.
- Underage drinking comes with fines and penalties.
Whether you’re visiting Toronto, Montréal, or Vancouver, knowing the drinking laws helps you avoid fines and enjoy Canada responsibly.
FAQ
Q1. What is the lowest legal drinking age in Canada?
18 years old, in Alberta, Manitoba, and Québec.
Q2. Is the drinking age the same across Canada?
No, it varies. Some provinces have 18, others 19.
Q3. Can a 17-year-old drink with parents in Canada?
No, underage drinking is still illegal in most provinces.
Q4. Can you buy alcohol at 18 in Ontario?
No, in Ontario the minimum age is 19.
Q5. Can tourists drink alcohol in Canada?
Yes, if they are the legal age in the province they’re visiting.
Q6. Do all stores check ID?
Yes, most will if you look under 25.
Q7. What happens if you drink underage in Canada?
You can face fines, confiscation, or even criminal charges.
Q8. Is drinking in parks legal?
Only in some cities, like Montréal and Vancouver, during set hours.
Q9. Do Canadian provinces allow alcohol in grocery stores?
Yes, in some provinces like Ontario (limited beer & wine).
Q10. Can you drink alcohol on public transport in Canada?
No, it is illegal.