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 Vermont, as in all states across the United States, the Minimum Legal Drinking Age (MLDA) is set at 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. Vermont law prohibits underage drinking and the furnishing of alcohol to minors. The enforcement of these laws is carried out by state and local authorities, and penalties for violating the MLDA can include fines, community service, and educational programs. Additionally, Vermont has a 'zero tolerance' law, which means that any detectable amount of alcohol in the system of a driver under the age of 21 is grounds for a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charge. The specific consequences for MLDA violations can vary depending on the nature of the offense and whether the individual has prior violations.