drinking age

Could you tell me what the drinking age is at the dominican! Thanks!

Some time ago, the undersigned posted the proper answer to your question but it got deleted by the magic wand of some reality-altering Mount Olympus' residents.

Therefore, I suggest you search the archives for the 100% wholesome, cholesterol free, low fat, vitamins A & D added, half-way official version.

Regards,

JCesar

The drinking age in the Dominican Republic is 18 years old. This is not enforced, although there are parents movements that are working so that this starts to be enforced.

Drinking age in the DR is somewhat of a gray area. I have not seen it posted in bars, they don't want to refuse a paying customer. Just think of it being at least 18. I have heard of it being 21. Depends on who you talk to.

If your age is questionable, service is subject to the bartender's option and how it is enforced or overlooked by the local constabulary. Make sure you have a "valid" picture ID on you at all times.

Regards, PJT

Even after being in the bar business in Sosua, I would have to sayI don't really know, except if you're old enough to walk, you're most likely old enough to drink. Seriously, tho I think as long as you're somewhat mature and not causing problems, most bars that I am aware of would sell you a drink.

The owner of one of the more popular bars in Boca Chica was arrested 6 weeks ago and his bar shut down for 2 days for allowing a 17 year in the bar area. His bar has no doors, is sandwiched in an open lot between 2 buildings, completely open at the front and back. His bar and most bars in Boca Chica have signs posted that say you must be 18 to enter. ID check is sporadically enforced at the 2 largest discos in Boca Chica (Hamaca and La Noria).

Almost 2 years ago, every major bar in Boca Chica was shut down for allowing minors inside, the 2 most popular of which have never reopened and Boca Chica enjoyed a period of almost an entire year without a single disco besides the Hamaca Hotel, which often restricted entrance to hotel guests only. The enforcement in Boca Chica, according to the signs currently posted, is for "the protection and prevention of the abuse of minors."

That said, enforcement of the drinking age seems to be applied more to the locals than the tourists, fake id is easy to come by, and enforcement rises and falls with local police and media pressures.

An attorney posted on this board some time ago that the age was 18.

Jim Hinsch JimHinsch@CSI.COM