In many countries, the legal drinking age is 21, making it difficult to buy alcohol under 21 without ID. This age limit is designed to protect young people from the negative effects of alcohol, such as poor judgment, poor coordination, and the possibility of addiction. Thus, people under 21 are not allowed to buy or drink alcohol. So you’re likely to be carded if the cashier or delivery person thinks you’re underage. Note that attempting to buy or possessing alcohol as a minor can lead to fines, jail time, and a criminal record. In North Carolina, for example, you will be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor.
How to buy alcohol under 21 without ID
Despite the laws, some people under 21 still manage to get alcohol, sometimes due to peer pressure, curiosity, or a desire to fit in with others. Below is how they do it:
1. Use a fake ID
A fake ID is one way someone under 21 can buy alcohol buy without an ID. Fake IDs are easy to get and may be bought online or from other people.
These IDs may look real, but trained professionals like bartenders or police officers may be able to spot them. Using a fake ID can have serious repercussions, such as being arrested and paying fines.
According to California Alcoholic Beverage Control, for example, if an underage is caught attempting to buy alcohol, the penalty is a maximum $100 fine and/or 24-32 hours of community service, plus a one-year suspension of driver’s license. If you don’t have a license, you’ll have to wait an extra year to get one.
2. Ask an adult to get it on your behalf
As an under 21, someone can buy alcohol by asking an older person to do it for them. The person has to be 21 or older. This is known as proxy buying but is illegal in many jurisdictions. However, the liquor store as well as the delivery man will never know that someone under 21, probably a 14 YO, ordered the alcohol.
Read also: outsmart bouncers without your ID
The person over can be a friend, an older sibling, or even a stranger. This method can be tempting for those under 21, but it’s also illegal and can lead to serious consequences for both the person under 21 and the person over 21 who bought the alcohol.
3. Use stores that won’t check IDs
Someone can also buy alcohol under 21 without ID at a store that doesn’t check IDs. This is usually the case in some areas that do not have enough training, money, or enforcement. Just walk in, ask for liquor, pay the money, and walk away.
4. Sneak into bars
Underage people may also try to get alcohol by sneaking into bars or liquor stores and taking it without paying. This is theft, and it is a serious crime that can lead to fines and jail time.
5. Attend parties
Minors do get alcohol by going to parties or events where alcohol is served. In these situations, they may be able to drink without showing ID or having their age checked. This is typically a dangerous situation though because drinking before turning 21 can cause serious problems like alcohol poisoning, accidents, and other health issues.
6. Buy alcohol online
The Internet has made it easier for dishonest minors to buy alcohol without showing their ID. Individuals under 21 may be able to buy alcohol online and have it delivered to their homes in some cases. They may then have an adult sign the delivery since most delivery stores won’t leave the alcohol until they can confirm that the customer is of legal age.
Another downside with this method is that the delivery person won’t also leave the alcohol at the door if the person ordering it is not home. The majority of alcohol delivery services have a rule that says the person getting the alcohol must show ID and sign for it in person. This contributes to the prevention of minors receiving alcohol. If you won’t be home to receive the delivery, you might want to have it sent to a friend or family member who is old enough to drink and can sign for it on your behalf, or to your place of employment if that’s okay.
7. Buy from unregulated sources
Minors occasionally buy alcohol from unofficial or unregulated sources, which can include people who sell alcohol on the street or out of their homes.
such places don’t always check IDs, so it becomes easier for anyone under 21 to buy alcohol without ID.
8. Booze cruise
Booze cruising is when an underage goes to a state or country where the legal drinking age is lower and buys alcohol there. They then take the alcohol back to their home state.
Read also: how adults sneak booze past bouncers
Do you need an ID for vodka?
Vodka is alcohol. If you are at least 21 years old, you can buy vodka. To buy vodka, people who look younger than 55 must have a valid ID showing they are over 21.
How do college students get alcohol?
Students over the age of 21 can buy alcohol from a number of stores, but most underage drinkers get their alcohol from social sources like dorms, off-campus parties, or frat/sorority events.
Do you need an ID to order alcohol on DoorDash?
Dashers will ask for an ID and use special technology on their smartphones to verify the authenticity of a customer’s form of identification. You might be asked to show your ID and the credit card you used to pay for the item when it arrives.
Final thoughts
Obtaining alcohol under the age of 21 is generally illegal. Make sure to follow the laws and rules in your jurisdiction to ensure your safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is having trouble with alcohol abuse, consider talking to a trusted friend, family member, or professional. Support groups, counseling, and rehab programs are all available to help people overcome alcohol addiction.
