Taiwan is a popular destination for travelers and students from around the world. While many come to experience the country’s vibrant culture and cuisine, others are curious about its laws and regulations, including the legal drinking age. If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan or studying abroad there, it’s important to know what the legal drinking age is and what the penalties are for violating it.
The Legal Drinking Age in Taiwan
The legal drinking age in Taiwan is 18 years old. This means that anyone under the age of 18 is not allowed to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol in any form, including beer, wine, and spirits. This law is strictly enforced, and establishments that serve alcohol to minors can face severe penalties, including fines and the revocation of their licenses.
It’s worth noting that the legal drinking age in Taiwan is lower than many other countries, including the United States, where the legal drinking age is 21. However, just because the drinking age is lower in Taiwan doesn’t mean that drinking is condoned or encouraged for those under 18. In fact, the government and many non-profit organizations actively promote responsible drinking and discourage underage drinking.
How Taiwanโs Drinking Age Compares to Other Countries in the Region
Taiwanโs drinking age of 18 is consistent with most countries in East Asia, such as China and Thailand, where the legal drinking age is also 18. In contrast, countries like Indonesia and Malaysia set the legal drinking age at 21.
This regional comparison highlights the cultural and legal differences in how alcohol consumption is regulated. While Taiwanโs minimum age aligns with some neighbors, recent discussions have suggested that it may need to change to address public health concerns.
Recent Calls to Raise Taiwanโs Drinking Age
Medical experts in Taiwan have recently proposed raising the drinking age from 18 to 21 to combat growing concerns about alcoholism among young adults, emphasizing the health risks of alcohol, including its link to liver diseases, cancer, and chronic conditions. Frequent solitary drinking, he warned, could signal early addiction, making early intervention crucial.
What is the Fine for Underage Drinking in Taiwan?
If you’re caught drinking underage in Taiwan, you could face serious consequences. For a first offense, you may be fined up to NT$30,000 (approximately $1,000 USD) and required to attend a substance abuse education program. Repeat offenders may face higher fines and even imprisonment. Additionally, if you’re caught drinking and driving, the penalties are even more severe.
Fining also works the other way around. No adults, including parents, should supply alcohol to anyone under the age of 18 or risk a fine of up to NT$50,000 (approximately $1,600 USD).
Buying Alcohol in Taiwan: ID or No ID?
While there’s no universal requirement for vendors to check ID when selling alcohol in Taiwan, they hold the authority to request it from anyone they suspect is underage. This means even if you don’t get carded at every store, don’t assume it’s okay everywhere. It’s crucial to remember that breaking the law regarding alcohol purchase can lead to fines and even confiscation of the alcohol.
To be on the safe side, it’s highly recommended to carry a valid government-issued photo ID, such as your passport or a foreign driver’s license. If you are living in Taiwan, you can also use your ARC or APRC. However, it’s important to note that vendors ultimately have the discretion to decide what constitutes acceptable proof of age.
Underage Entry: A No-Go in Taiwan’s Nightlife
The legal drinking age in Taiwan is 18 years old, and this applies to all establishments serving alcohol, including nightclubs, bars, and restaurants with alcohol menus. Age verification is typically strict at nightclubs in particular, with security personnel often checking IDs meticulously before granting entry.
Trying to enter an age-restricted establishment while underage is not only a violation of the law, but it can also lead to embarrassment, fines, and potential legal repercussions. It’s essential to respect these regulations and enjoy the nightlife responsibly by waiting until you reach the legal age.
Closing Time for Alcohol Sales: A Local Matter
Unlike some countries, Taiwan doesn’t have a nationwide law dictating the closing time for alcohol sales. This means that while certain local governments might have implemented their own restrictions, there’s no single closing hour throughout the country.
To avoid any confusion, it’s always best to check with the specific establishment you plan to visit or consult local authorities to understand their specific policies regarding alcohol sales hours.
Streetside Sipping: A Legal Gray Area
While technically not illegal to drink alcohol on the street in Taiwan, it’s crucial to approach this situation with caution. Public intoxication is considered an offense, and you could be fined if deemed visibly drunk in public spaces.
Furthermore, some areas might have open container laws in place, prohibiting individuals from carrying open containers of alcohol in public places like parks or sidewalks. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with local regulations and practice responsible drinking by avoiding alcohol consumption in public areas where it might be restricted.
As with any country, it’s important to respect local laws and customs when traveling to Taiwan. If you’re under 18, it’s best to avoid drinking altogether. If you’re over 18, be sure to drink responsibly and never drink and drive. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy all that Taiwan has to offer without running afoul of the law.
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