Curious what the legal drinking age is in the US Virgin Islands? You’ve come to the right place.
The legal drinking age in the US Virgin Islands is 18 years old.
But, there are certain restrictions for those younger than 21 to enter bars, transport alcohol, and more.
This guide will cover the legal age requirements to drink, purchase, and transport alcohol in the US Virgin Islands, to help you prepare for your next trip!
Keep reading to find out all of the important legal drinking laws in the USVI.
What is the legal drinking age in the US Virgin Islands?
The legal drinking age in the US Virgin Islands is 18 years old, meaning that 18 year olds can purchase and drink alcohol legally.
This may come at a shock to you, since the legal requirement in the United States is 21!
Keep in mind that It is illegal for 18 year olds to share alcohol with underage friends.
Additionally, 18 year olds may not bring alcohol from other countries where the legal age limit is 21.
Overview Of The US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands are a group of around 50 islands scattered in the northeast Caribbean.
The four main US Virgin Islands are St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas, and Water Island. The rest of the islands are mostly uninhabited.
The islands are considered a United States unincorporated territory so they follow the majority of US laws.
However, they have their own local government, so not all US federal laws apply to the islands.
These are the most frequently visited to US Virgin Islands by tourists.
- St Croix
- St John
- St Thomas
- Water Island
Can 18 year olds drink in the US Virgin Islands?
Yes, 18 year olds can legally drink in the US Virgin Islands, including St John, St. Croix, St Thomas, and the rest of the islands.
If you’re 18 or over, you may not share alcohol with underage people legally in the US Virgin Islands.
If you’re under 21, you will want to keep a form of identification on hand to prove your age, if you plan on drinking.
Can 18 year olds purchase alcohol in the USVI?
Yes, 18 year olds can purchase alcohol in the US Virgin islands with a form of identification to prove their age.
This includes purchasing alcohol from gas stations, convenience stores, and restaurants.
Can 18 year olds enter bars/clubs in the USVI?
Yes, 18 year olds can enter most bars in the US Virgin Islands.
Since the legal drinking age is 18, there are no legal requirements preventing 18 year olds from entering bars.
However, the legal age for nightclub entry is set at 18 or 21 years old at most venues.
If you’re under 21, make sure to read about the places before you visit, and always keep identification on hand.
Are you allowed to drink in public in the US Virgin Islands?
Yes, you are allowed to drink in public (beaches, streets, etc.) in the US Virgin Islands, since there are no open container laws.
That being said, you must drink responsibly because public intoxication laws still exist.
It’s illegal to drink and drive in the US Virgin Islands.
What identification do you need to drink in the USVI?
You’ll need a valid proof of identification that confirms your age, such as a driver’s license or government issued ID to drink in the US Virgin Islands.
Note: Make sure your ID is up to date.
What are the legal consequences of underage drinking in the USVI?
Minors under 18 caught drinking will be subject to arrest, penalties, and fines in the US Virgin Islands.
Additionally, if you’re caught soliciting drinks to minors, you’ll be subject to penalties and fees.
What other countries have a legal drinking age under 21?
The US Virgin Islands are one of the many countries with a legal drinking age under 21.
There are several countries with legal drinking ages of 16, 17, and 18.
Here are some other notable countries where the legal drinking age is under 21!
- Barbados – 16
- Cuba – 16
- Switzerland – 16
- Malta – 17
- Chile – 18
- Mexico – 18
- Brazil – 18
- Argentina – 18
- Costa Rica – 18
- Jamaica – 18
FAQ
Is it safe to drink water in the US Virgin Islands?
Yes, the water is safe in the US Virgin Islands unless there’s an indication stating it’s not.
The tap water and ice at restaurants, hotels, and bars is generally very safe.
You can opt for drinks without ice, and purchase bottled water if you want to avoid any chances of getting sick.
Is St Lucia a US Virgin Island?
No, St Lucia is not a US Virgin Island but an island state, part of the British commonwealth.
The legal drinking age in St Lucia is 21 years old, or 18 if they are accompanied by an adult.
Is St Martin a US Virgin Island?
No, St Martin is a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with a Dutch (Sint Maarten) and French (Saint Maarten) side.
Similar to the US Virgin Islands, the legal drinking age in St Martin is 18 years old.
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