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 Wisconsin, the Minimum Legal Drinking Age (MLDA) is 21 years old, in line with federal law and the other states. This means individuals must be at least 21 years of age to legally consume, possess, or purchase alcoholic beverages. However, Wisconsin does have exceptions to this rule. Under certain circumstances, individuals under 21 may legally consume alcohol if they are with a parent, guardian, or spouse of legal drinking age. The enforcement of MLDA laws and the penalties for violations, such as underage drinking or providing alcohol to minors, can include fines, community service, and potentially driver's license suspension. The specific consequences for violating MLDA laws can vary depending on the nature of the offense and whether the individual has prior violations.