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 Dakota, as in all other states in 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, purchase, or attempt to purchase alcoholic beverages. South Dakota law prohibits underage drinking and the furnishing of alcohol to minors. Penalties for violating MLDA laws can include fines, community service, and mandatory alcohol education or intervention programs. Additionally, South Dakota has a 'zero tolerance' law, which means that any detectable amount of alcohol in drivers under 21 is illegal and can result in driver's license sanctions. The specific enforcement and penalties can vary depending on the circumstances of the violation and whether it is a first or subsequent offense.