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 South Carolina, as in all states across the United States, the Minimum Legal Drinking Age (MLDA) is 21 years old. This means individuals must be at least 21 years of age to legally consume, possess, or purchase alcoholic beverages. South Carolina law prohibits the sale of alcohol to persons under the age of 21 and also forbids those under 21 from purchasing or attempting to purchase alcohol. The state enforces these laws and imposes penalties on both the underage individuals who attempt to violate the MLDA and on those who provide alcohol to underage individuals. Penalties for underage drinking can include fines, community service, and mandatory alcohol education or intervention programs. Additionally, businesses that sell alcohol to underage customers may face fines, suspension of their alcohol license, or other penalties.