Under 21 and Alcohol

It is unlawful for anyone under 21 years of age to buy or have public possession of an alcoholic beverage. The fine is not more than $100, by a citation paid like a traffic ticket that does not go on the person's criminal history record, and the license may be suspended for 180 days on a conviction.

• §La. R.S. 14:93.12StatutePurchase and public possession of alcoholic beverages; exceptions; penaltiesOpens legis.la.gov ↗

• Drinking for an established religious purpose.
• Being accompanied by a parent, spouse or legal guardian who is 21 or older.
• Medicine bought over the counter or given by a doctor, pharmacist, dentist, nurse or hospital.
• Drinking in a private residence, including up to twenty contiguous acres the dwelling's owner also owns.
• Handling or serving alcohol as part of lawful work for a licensed business.

• §La. R.S. 14:93.10StatuteDefinitionsOpens legis.la.gov ↗

Selling or delivering alcohol for value to someone under 21 is its own crime, and not knowing the buyer's age is no defense: a fine of $500 to $1,000, or 30 days to 6 months, or both.

• §La. R.S. 14:93.11StatuteUnlawful sales to persons under twenty-oneOpens legis.la.gov ↗