Drinking Age in Canada: What You Need to Know

If you want to go out at night in Canada, and enjoy yourself while you’re at it, you’ll need to be able to navigate the country’s drinking laws. 

This post breaks down the drinking age in all the Canadian provinces so you’ll know just what and where you can drink (legally). 

There’s no universal drinking age in Canada—it’s different depending on which province you’re in—so you’ll want to know what the laws are before you begin to bottoms up. 

From the best beverages in Canada to the legislation and customs surrounding them, here is how to enjoy a responsible and respectful night out in Canada.

What Is the Legal Drinking Age in Canada?

Canada has this unique alcohol law where each province and territory can set it’s own drinking age and there’s not a single national one.

This means that depending on where you are, the drinking age will be different.

Here’s a breakdown of the rules across Canada.

Remember, understanding the city’s age limitations is essential.

Canadian Laws and Regulations Regarding Alcohol Consumption

Purchasing Alcohol

When you travel to Canada, you’ll find that buying alcohol is a unique experience, as the laws surrounding it are a provincial matter.

Some areas have government-run liquor stores, while in others, the liquor is sold by privately owned shops.

Keep in mind that when you can buy it will also vary, and it will be difficult to buy on a major holiday, as many places will be closed.

Drinking Locations

Making sure you understand the rules about alcohol is key.

In most cases, it’s okay to drink in bars and restaurants if you see others drinking there, but it’s never okay in the streets, parks, etc.

Except sometimes during festivals, so do the research if you’re visiting one.

Age Verification

You will also be required to show a valid form of ID.

Because Canada enforces strong identity verification rules, it is not unusual to be asked to produce identification.

Do not experience any disruption in buying alcohol by carrying an accepted photo ID like a driver’s license or passport.

Drinking and Driving

Canada has harsh drinking and driving laws, including tough blood alcohol concentration levels.

There is zero tolerance for young or new drivers, so beware. Penalties are severe if you get caught.

Keep yourself and your trip worry-free and choose public transportation or a rideshare service if you are going out for a drink.

Drinking Etiquette and Taboos in Canada

Etiquette

• Wait to Toast. At any type of event, you should also always wait until the host offers the first “cheers” before you raise your glass and take a drink.

• No Pressure to Drink. When you’re out, just try to remember that not everyone consumes alcohol. Some people opt out for religious reasons or maybe they just don’t like alcohol. It’s fine to ask, but don’t be insistent.

• Graceful Acceptance or Decline. If someone offers a drink, you’re welcome to refuse. There’s no need to invent a reason to say no. Canadians are very understanding of this.

• Pouring for Friends. When you’re socializing, it can be a small way to show you care about the other person. It go a long way with good friends and shows that you’re always considering them.

• Remember to Tip. When you’re in a bar or restaurant, please, tip your server or bartender. The generally accepted amount is 15-20% of your bill. It demonstrates your appreciation for their work.

Taboos

• Public Drunkenness. If you get too drunk in public, people are not going to be happy, and you might even get in trouble. You might receive a ticket or be kicked out, and that’s no fun in a foreign country!

• Drinking in Public. Most of the time, you can’t carry or consume alcohol in public spaces such as parks or on the street. There are exceptions, but as a rule it’s best to just keep the booze indoors or at special events.

• Keep it Down. Residents tend to appreciate the quiet, especially in residential areas, so it’s best to avoid loud parties or making a lot of noise if you’ve been drinking. It’s also quite disrespectful to do so, and the people around you won’t be impressed.

• Respect Rules. Never try to bring a drink somewhere not allowed like a restaurant or into a public transportation system. You can't take beers to the church. Obey the signs and rules.

Recommended Canadian Alcoholic Beverages

1. Canadian Whisky

When it comes to Canadian whisky, there are a few rock stars, like Crown Royal and Canadian Club.

They offer a smooth flavor profile that’s popular in Canada and around the world.

They are fairly mild and usually have a touch of caramel and vanilla on the palate, which makes them great for sipping neat or mixing into a cocktail.

You’ll find them in just about every bar and liquor store in the land.

2. Ice Wine

Ice wine is a delicious indulgence that is really worth trying.

It’s a type of dessert wine produced from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine.

A Canadian specialty, it is very sweet and delicious, so it’s a favorite with drinkers who enjoy something sweet and luxurious.

The regions of Ontario and British Columbia are the places to find this wine — it’s especially popular here.

3. Craft Beers

Craft beer is booming in Canada, and you can find unique and locally brewed options in every province.

Quebec, British Columbia, and Alberta, in particular, have a lot of craft breweries that focus on variety and quality. The hops are taking over here and you’ll find all sorts of varieties: IPAs, stouts, and more.

Many bars and restaurants around the country focus on local beers, so be sure to support the local product by trying some from a brewery near you.

4. Local Wines

Don’t overlook the wine produced in Canada.

The country is home to some really good wine regions, especially the Niagara Peninsula up by Toronto and the Okanagan Valley near Vancouver.

They produce a variety of wines from ice wines and whites to reds, which really show off the region’s terroir.

Wine lovers will not want to miss visiting a local vineyard to taste and learn about Canada’s wines.

Tips for Travelers

Always carry ID and respect local laws. 

Don’t Leave Your ID. Even if you’re just purchasing a bottle of wine, or trying to order a cocktail at a nearby bar, you’ll be asked for your ID.

By obeying the laws and having the proper identification, you’ll be able to drink and enjoy a night out.

Know the drinking age of the province you visit. 

Each province is like its own country and each has its own set of rules. The legal drinking age is one of those things.

This is one of those things you just want to know ahead of time so you don’t end up in an awkward situation.

Use public transport or rideshare instead of driving after drinking. 

Stay safe and use good judgment– if you have been drinking, use public transportation or a rideshare.

Canada’s public transportation is efficient, and you can also find a rideshare with a simple app. It’s a hassle-free way to get around while avoiding paying a lot of money in fines or facing additional consequences.

Ask locals or hotel staff about any specific rules or customs. 

When you’re unsure, the locals are your best informational resource.

Whether it’s the hotel barman or the people you meet at the pub, they can provide helpful advice about etiquette and protocol.

FAQ

1. What ID is acceptable for buying alcohol in Canada?

Normally, you need photo ID (like a driver’s license or a passport) in order to purchase alcohol.

2. Are there dry communities in Canada?

Yes, certain Indigenous communities and regions have restrictions or prohibitions on alcohol.

3. Do drink prices vary across Canada?

Yes, prices can vary massively province by province here due to taxes and laws.

4. Is it legal to ship alcohol across provincial borders in Canada?

That varies by province, with some provinces being more strict than others about alcohol crossing borders.

5. What is the culture around tipping in bars in Canada?

Tipping is customary in bars and restaurants in Canada, typically 15-20% of the bill.

Conclusion

If you want to drink, or want to know more about the rules of drinking in Canada, you’ll need to learn about the legal drinking age and liquor laws in the country.

Be sure to research local laws so you don’t end up getting fined and ruining your trip.

Remember, as with all things, drink responsibly, mind your etiquette, and avoid any taboos, and you’ll have an amazing time while also getting to experience the warmth and hospitality of Canada in all its glory.

Go out and enjoy and partake in the country’s alcohol culture!