In some states, when a person under 21 is caught under the influence, they can receive a Minor in Consumption (MIC or MIP) violation. It is sometimes called a minor in possession of alcohol violation. In many states, the minor will be required to take an educational program which will teach them about the risks and consequences of underage drinking.
Since the legal drinking age has been changed to 21, over 25,000 lives have been saved in the U.S. alone.
When this law went into effect it created a 16% reduction in youth deaths and untold number of injuries. Below is the single reason why the drinking age is 21.
Why is 21 years of age the magic number to drink legally?
Age requirements are nothing new in this country. We can not enter the armed forces until age 18. We can not obtain a license to drive until age 16. If you want to become president, you must wait till age 35.
The age limit for consuming alcohol is based on several factors. Mostly due in part to the way alcohol effects teenagers vs. adults. It is a developmental issue even more than it is just a age one. When we are young, such as teenagers get intoxicated almost twice as fast as the average adult and have even more trouble knowing when to quit. Teens naturally overdo it and binge drink more often than adults. Increasing the legal drinking age to 21 not only saves lives, but encourages safer habits for young people.
Those who are arrested or charged with possession of alcohol (or drugs) may be required to take an alcohol awareness class or minor in possession class. The good news is these programs are readily available and help young adults learn how to make better choices.