Underage Drinking
AS 04.16.050 — a violation with a $500 fine, cut to $50 for finishing a program within six months
A person under 21 who knowingly drinks, possesses or controls alcohol commits minor consuming or in possession or control, unless a parent, guardian or spouse gave it to them off licensed premises, or a doctor or nurse did in treatment.
Who handles this in Alaska: Alaska Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service; and legal aid programs and the state offices, listed in the Alaska directory.
It is a violation with a $500 fine, filed as its own case. The court may cut the fine to $50, or to $250 after two or more earlier violations, for someone who shows within six months of the judgment that they completed an alcohol safety action program or a community diversion panel.
Under 18. A person under 18 arrested for it is cited and released to a parent, guardian or custodian, unless there is a lawful reason to hold them.
Sources for this section (3)
- AS 04.16.050 — Possession, control, or consumption by persons under 21 years of age
- AS 04.16.051 — Furnishing or delivery of alcoholic beverages to persons under the age of 21
- AS 12.25.030 — Grounds for arrest by private person or peace officer without warrant
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Alaska attorney.