Age Restriction

Minimum legal drinking age (MLDA) laws of 21 in the U.S. refer to a minimum age required to purchase alcohol in a state and measures aimed at preventing people under the minimum age from accessing alcohol. MLDA laws have significantly reduced drinking and drinking-related problems among adolescents and young adults, including education drop-out rates, car crashes, crime, injuries, assaults and suicides. There is also evidence that the relaxation of age restrictions contributes to heavier use later in life.  

Minimum Legal Drinking Age Laws
Underage and College Alcohol Policies

Selected State Policies and Associations with Alcohol Use Behaviors and Risky Driving Behaviors Among Youth: Findings from Monitoring the Future Study

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Underage Drinking: A Review of Trends and Prevention Strategies

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The Utility of Including the Strengths of Underage Drinking Laws in Determining Their Effect on Outcomes

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A Comprehensive Examination of United States Laws Enacted to Reduce Alcohol-Related Crashes Among Underage Drivers

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  1. Youth, Alcohol and Relative Risk of Crash Involvement
    Mayhew DR, Donelson AC, Beirness DJ, Simpson HM. Accident Analysis and Prevention. 18(4), 273-287.
    Date: 1986 (archived)
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