Minimum Legal Drinking Age (MLDA) laws generally specify the legal age at which an individual can consume, possess, purchase, or attempt to purchase alcoholic beverages. The MLDA in all states in the United States is 21 years. But the manner in which the MLDA is enforced—and the punishment for violations—varies from state to state.
In Florida, as in all states across the United States, the Minimum Legal Drinking Age (MLDA) is 21 years. This means individuals must be at least 21 years old to consume, possess, purchase, or attempt to purchase alcoholic beverages. Florida law prohibits individuals under the age of 21 from having in their possession any alcoholic beverage, with violations potentially resulting in penalties such as fines, community service, and mandatory attendance in alcohol education programs. Additionally, Florida has a 'zero tolerance' law for drivers under 21, which means that any driver under 21 who is found to have a blood-alcohol level of 0.02% or higher can face DUI charges. The enforcement of these laws is carried out by local and state law enforcement agencies, and the specific penalties for violations can vary depending on the circumstances and the individual's prior record.