Are you wondering about Cancun drinking age? If so, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about drinking while in the Mexican Caribbean.
Mexico is a favorite choice for many vacationers, and for a good reason. It’s a great place to spend time with family and friends, or even as a solo traveler. With its abundance of beaches in places like Isla Holbox, Baja California, and Oaxaca; lush jungles, and Mayan ruins, there are many things to do in Mexico.
👉 Read my complete guide to the best cenote tours from Cancun for an awesome day trip
Most of us like to relax and celebrate on vacation, so it’s no surprise that many people are curious about drinking in Mexico.
This article was created by Isabella from Let’s Travel to Cancun where shares her expertise on the most popular destination in Mexico.
Read on to discover the legal drinking age in Cancun and Mexico, whether you need ID, important laws to know, crucial safety tips, and more. Let’s dive in! 😃
What’s the legal drinking age in Mexico?
The legal drinking age in Mexico is eighteen years old. It could change in the future, but as of right now, anyone age 18 or older can legally buy and drink alcoholic beverages anywhere in Mexico.
If you are from another country with a higher drinking age, you may be excited to go to Mexico and party. However, it’d be easy to get into trouble if you drink without taking safety precautions (or if you don’t know local laws).
Read on to ensure you have the best experience while drinking in Cancun 🍹
What’s the drinking age in Cancun?
Cancun drinking age is the same as in the rest of Mexico. If you are 18 or older, you can enjoy drinking in Cancun.
What’s the legal drinking age in Mexico at resorts?
The legal drinking age in Mexico at resorts is 18. If you’re heading to Cancun for Spring Break, drink safely. Choose a designated driver or take a taxi back to your hotel. If you’re in a group, take turns keeping an eye out for each other.
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What’s the legal drinking age in Cancun resorts?
If you are 18 or older, you can drink legally at Cancun resorts. Most resorts will give out wristbands to their guests. Underage guests will get wristbands in different colors, so that resort staff knows not to serve alcohol.
You could be asked to leave the resort if you’re caught taking alcoholic drinks that you don’t have a right to.
Can you drink at 18 in Cancun resorts?
Yes! The legal Cancun drinking age is 18 years old, so as long as you’ve had your 18th birthday, you are good to go.
Usually, resorts will check your identification when you check in for your stay. You get a colored armband that you can show to bartenders to show that they can legally serve you drinks.
👉 If you are not staying in an all-inclusive resort, you could still get a Day Pass in one of these amazing resorts, so enjoy the all-inclusive fun.
Do I need my ID when drinking in Mexico?
A lot of places in Mexico might not be very strict about checking identification, especially if you look like you’re old enough to drink. However, it is always a good idea to carry your ID. It applies not only to going to a bar or nightclub but to any other place in Mexico.
Do I need my ID to buy alcohol in Cancún?
As in the rest of Mexico, it can be hit or miss whether you get carded in Cancun. Some resorts, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs don’t bother checking ID’s, especially if travelers look old enough. However, it is a good idea to have your ID anyway.
Is it safe to drink alcohol in Cancun?
It can be safe to drink alcohol in Cancun, but only if you take precautions, know the law, and follow the safety tips listed below ⬇️
Is the legal drinking age enforced in Mexico?
The legal drinking age in Mexico is enforced. Although it may be not enforced at all times, it’s best to follow the law. Breaking the law in a foreign country is never a good idea.
Drinking laws in Mexico
It’s critical to know the drinking laws in Mexico to avoid problems. Although this list isn’t exhaustive, these are the most important laws for your trip to Cancun.
Legal drinking age in Mexico
It is illegal to sell alcohol to people below 18 years of age, no matter the circumstances.
Alcohol sales – why time of day matters
Did you know that selling alcohol in Mexico is legal only during certain hours?
According to the Law About the Consumption and Sale of Alcohol in Quintana Roo, alcohol can only be bought and sold in the Tourist Zone during the following hours:
- Restaurants – From 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. (or up to 1 am of the following day if the establishment pays for the privilege)
- Restaurant bars – From 10 am to midnight (or until 4 am of the following day if the establishment pays for the privilege))
- Bars – From 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. (or until 4 am of the following day if the establishment pays for the privilege).
Drinking and driving in Mexico
According to the Quintana Roo Mobility Act, all drivers in Mexico have to submit to a breath test or other intoxication test, when requested. Drivers who refuse alcohol detection tests may be arrested or fined.
Any driver of a commercial vehicle must have zero symptoms of driving under the influence. It covers alcohol, narcotics, drugs, or psychotropic substances.
Drinking in Cancun is prohibited if…
According to the Health Law for the State of Quintana Roo, you are not permitted to drink alcohol if you fall under any of the following categories:
- You are under eighteen years of age
- You are pregnant
- You are going to drive a public transport vehicle or any machinery which requires the unimpaired ability
- You drink in excess
- You have a chronic illness such as hypertension, diabetes, liver disease, or other, and have been told not to drink alcohol by your doctor.
Election days in Mexico could mean no alcohol
Dry laws may be implemented on election days in some states in Mexico. This law will prohibit the sale of alcohol for 24 to 48 hours on an election day. If you’re planning a party, you’ll need to buy your alcohol in advance.
Safety tips for drinking in Mexico
Drinking in Mexico can be riskier than drinking in your home country. Limit the dangers, stay safe, and have fun by following these important safety tips.
Be careful about drinking in Mexico resorts
Alcohol poisoning can occur in Mexico. Be sure to drink only around the people whom you trust 🤝
Don’t drink and drive
Alcohol-related accidents are common in Mexico. The last thing you want on your vacation is to end up in trouble with the police. Take a taxi 🚕 back to your hotel, or choose one person in your group as the designated driver.
Don’t leave your drinks (or food) unattended
Do not ever leave your food or drinks unattended. If you have to, take your drink with you to the bathroom. Unless you are with a trusted friend (whom you know well), never leave your drink alone. Otherwise, it might be spiked.
✅ Check my Mexico travel tips to stay safe on the road and have a great time while traveling the country.
Blend in to avoid attention
When you’re going out, don’t dress up too much, carry large amounts of cash, or take valuables with you. It will help you avoid becoming a target. It is also wise not to get intoxicated, as this will make you more of a target 🎯
Leave a tip
Being friendly and polite can go a long way. Be sure to leave a tip before you leave!
✅ Wondering how much you should tip your server or bartender? Check my complete guide to tipping in Mexico
Carry your ID
Some clubs and bars will check your ID no matter how old you are. It is always a good idea to carry your ID with you. 📄
Don’t get drunk in public
Public drunkenness can lead to fines and sometimes even imprisonment. Avoid problems by not getting drunk in public areas. If you plan to drink a lot, stay in your resort or hotel room.
Drink responsibly
The surest way to avoid problems when on vacation in Cancun Mexico, is to avoid getting intoxicated. Know your limits and stick to them. Don’t binge drink and be sure to stay hydrated. If you plan to over-indulge, do so in your hotel room or other safe location, and only in the presence of people you know well and can trust.
Don’t drink from open containers in public
It is not legal to drink alcohol from open containers when in public ⛔️ Although this rule isn’t always strictly enforced, it is best to avoid issues. If you get drinks in a disposable open container, it may be best to finish it before leaving the club or bar.
Don’t accept drinks from strangers
Stories of spiked or tainted drinks are common in Mexico ⚠️ Never accepting drinks from someone you don’t know well. Only drink beverages that you have seen the bartender make in front of you, or that are from a sealed container.
Don’t stay out late, especially if you travel solo
Try to avoid staying out late, especially if you are alone. Go with a group of friends whom you trust, or head back to your hotel while the night is still young.
Stay hydrated
One of the easiest ways to avoid a hangover is to stay hydrated. Chug down plenty of bottled water when you go out.
✔️ Remember, tap water is not suitable for drinking in Mexico.
Mexico legal drinking age: FAQs
Can tourists drink in Mexico?
Yes! Tourists can drink in Mexico, but you need to know the laws and follow safety precautions.
Is it safe to go out in Cancun?
Cancun is fairly safe for tourists, but it is always a good idea to be aware and safety-conscious. Avoid putting yourself in risky situations.
Only drink from licensed restaurants and bars, don’t leave your drink unattended, and don’t over-indulge. Never accept drinks from strangers, no matter how attractive or trustworthy they seem. Take a taxi back to your hotel, or choose a designated driver.
What’s the blood alcohol limit in Mexico?
The blood alcohol limit in Cancun is 0.4 mg
Can you drink at 18 in Cancun?
Yes, you are allowed to drink in Cancun if you are age 18 or older.
Can you drink alcohol in public in Cancun?
Yes, but you may not drink alcohol from open containers or display signs of drunkenness while in public.
Can I bring alcohol from Mexico if I’m 18?
No. Travelers under 21 are NOT allowed to import alcohol into the United States from Mexico, even if it’s a gift.
How much to tip in Cancun?
You should follow the same tipping rules in Cancun as in the rest of Mexico. Tip between 10-15 percent in restaurants and bars for standard service and feel free to leave more if your server or bartender went above and beyond.
Cancun drinking age: final words
Now you know everything you need to know about the legal drinking age in Mexico. Remember to drink responsibly, know the law, and follow the safety tips you learned in this article. That way, you’ll have a fun and celebratory vacation in Cancún.
More resources for planning your trip to Cancun
- Agoda.com – a great website for budget hotels in Cancun
- WorldNomads – Great service for insurance coverage that will keep you safe on the road.
- Safety Wing – Excellent insurance plan for long-term travelers that offers competitive rates is you are planning to stay on the road several weeks in a row.
- iVisa – the best website for getting help with your visa for Mexico i
- DiscoverCars.com – Rent a car to discover the Yucatan Peninsula beyond Cancun resorts
- GetYourGuide.com – This is one of the best platforms for finding best guided tours in Cancun. Get Your Guide is my favorite platform that offers awesome tours and top-notch guides in many cities in Central California.
- CheapoAir.com – One of the best platforms for saving money on flights to Mexico
- Booking.com – a popular website with tons and tons of options for accommodations of all sorts.