If you wanna know more about the drinking age in Thailand, then this topic is for you. Thailand is a country with plenty of charm, with so many things to do and try out. Among these things is their delicious cuisine and, of course, their alcohol – But how are you going to get by this Southeast Asian country in regards to their liquor laws?
Thailand is known for its colorful nightlife, which includes going to bars, karaoke bars, and nightclubs. Thai people are warm and friendly and enjoy having a great time in general. Compared to other Southeast Asian countries such as Singapore and Indonesia, their alcohol isn’t taxed heavily and can be bought everywhere. So, with that info in mind, here is what you need to know about Thailand’s drinking culture and rules regarding alcohol.
What is the Legal Drinking Age in Thailand?
In Thailand, the legal drinking age is 20 years old. If you’re a tourist, then this might come as a shock to you, as there have been plenty of stories of people as young as 18 visiting the country just to have a taste of their alcohol and party culture. But keep in mind that the Thai government is actually very strict about their alcohol laws, so even though the temptation to drink underage is too strong, you still need to follow the government’s official rules.
What is the Legal Drinking Age in Thailand for Tourists and Foreigners?
As mentioned, even if you’re a visitor or someone who has lived in the country for a very long time, you still need to follow Thailand’s official legal drinking age, which is 20 years old. However, Thailand gets plenty of tourists, and this can cause the rules to become a bit relaxed. If you are over 20 years old, you are more than welcome to try out the country’s assortment of local and foreign liquor. But if you’re a minor, then there is still plenty of fun activities for you to try out, such as shopping, going to the beach, or even a jungle tour.
Do You Need an ID to Drink in Thailand?
Since Thailand’s drinking laws are somewhat relaxed, you won’t really need an ID to buy your favorite alcohol – Unless that is, you have several underaged companions with you. There are still a couple of exceptions, though, so be sure to bring a legal ID, driver’s license, or passport with you. Alcohol is only sold around the country from 11 in the morning to 2 in the afternoon, then later at 5 in the afternoon, to midnight.
Legal Drinking Age in Thailand with Parents
There have been instances in which teens have been caught consuming alcohol, even with adult supervision. However, it is unsure if the underage drinking laws in Thailand are indeed a bit lax or if these teens were indeed allowed to take a sip of wine, as long as there’s an adult nearby. If you plan on giving alcohol to a teenager, no matter what the occasion might be, it’s up to you to be fully responsible for your actions.
Legal Drinking Age in Thailand by Region
The legal drinking age in Thailand – 20 years old – is imposed throughout the entire country, including its capital, Bangkok. The same applies to the country’s provincial areas, such as Chiang Mai and Phuket, where the climate is more humid. People who reside in these areas often enjoy drinking their favorite alcoholic beverage with a plate of spicy snacks and other Thai dishes.
Can Minors Drink in Thailand with Their Parents?
Thai authorities have said that parents who offer alcohol to children can potentially be put under arrest, as this equates to negligent behavior. Thai children and teenagers are kept safe by the country’s child protection laws. This is why both the authorities and government are working together to put a stop to underage drinking.
Consequences of Breaking the Drinking Age Law in Thailand
Recently, it has been announced that drinking and driving in Thailand can land the offender some stricter penalties, which include facing imprisonment for up to ten years and paying a minimum of 5,000 Baht with a maximum of 20,000 Baht. Meanwhile, public intoxication can result in a payment of 5,000 Baht. Thailand is known for its harsh jail sentences, so as much as possible, try not to experience that if you end up visiting the country for whatever reason.
A Roundup of the Drinking Age in Thailand
Make sure to follow these rules in case you feel the need to visit Thailand either for work or for leisure. We hope that this topic has managed to answer your pressing questions regarding alcohol laws here. As mentioned earlier, Thailand may have a huge drinking culture, and the people love to enjoy themselves, but at the same time, the government is very strict when it comes to handling liquor. So, if you are to consume your favorite liquor and enjoy yourself there, please do it in a responsible way.
I am a passionate beer connoisseur with a deep appreciation for the art and science of brewing. With years of experience tasting and evaluating various beers, I love to share my opinions and insights with others and I am always eager to engage in lively discussions about my favorite beverage.
