How strict are the drinking laws in Vancouver BC? What are the ages to just sit at bars/clubs and not drink?

Show all answers

JuanB

You have to be 19 to get into a drinking establishment in BC. All clubs in Vancouver check EVERYONE's ID at the door. Especially weekends. It gives the bouncer's something to do, slows down the line to make it busy inside, and keeps them legal. But any bar employee tends to ID, bounces, waitress, bartender, coat check girl. Some less desirable places may not diligently check. But you aren't likely to want to be in them, plus if you are the one under age do you want to be tagging along with a group of 20 year olds from bar to bar until you find the one that lets you stay? I'd be embarrassed. The law says everyone has to be 19 and have two pieces of ID, with one being photo ID like a driver's license or passport. The bar faces major fines on first offenses and closures for frequent offenses, so most don't see it in their interest to be in violation. The cops are more likely to be walking through busy downtown bars on weekends too.

vietgurl26

Not sure about the strict enforcement.

"The legal drinking age in British Columbia is 19, although some upscale clubs ask that patrons be at least 23. "

happyday to you

yes you have to be 19, and they will just ask you to leave if you are underage and have no ID

stephanie l

you have to be 19 to get into any club in vancouver. its quite tightly enforced. however you shouldn't have a huge issue at bars as long as you don't order any drinks. most places turn a blind eye as long as you look old enough and aren't drinking.

audiA4isawesome

You must by law be 19 to walk inside a drinking establishment or buy alcohol in BC. You might be able to get away with walking in a bar if you are with a group of legal drinkers. You can't order a drink because theres a 90% chance they ask for ID. Some bars and clubs do door checks, but most don't.
The reason they are quite strict here is because the fines for serving minors are really high and the bar can get their licence revoked for a period of time. A lounge would be a better choice, I have been in a lounge since I was 14 with no problems. I'm not sure of the legal age to be in a lounge though. Have fun in Van!

djkrazykid69

Most clubs yes you have to be 19 but depending on how much you slip the bouncer you can be 18 even 17 for all they care. its always best to just go when your 19. you dont want to be the only 18 year old will all your 19 year old buddies and be the only one turned away. It will be the worse walk of shame.

iceman

19 is the legal age to be in most clubs and drink.

Just like anywhere else, the nicer clubs enforce the rule but lower end places are more lax about it.

Barbados Chick

No, if the group goes to a "neighbourhood pub", you do not have to be "drinking age".
BTW
Big Cat is out to lunch - the drinking age varied from province to province and in BC it is 19.

Big Kat

Hi,
You have hit the magic age. The drinking laws in Canada are 18. However, you have to be very careful and don't get out of control and whatever you guys do don't drive. A DUI in Canada is a Felony. That's right it's a big hit. And one other thing don't tell the Canadian Police or Border Cops that you have ever had a DUI they will not let you into their Country.
Most people that want to do the rights of passage take the Ferry across from Olympia USA to Victoria B.C. that way there is no driving.
Good Luck and have one for me. Enjoy.

Enter Your Message or Comment

User Name:
User Email:
Post a comment: