Q:
My brothers and I are coming out for a 21st birthday in late July. If he turns 21 on the 21st, can he start drinking at midnight, legally?
A:
Yes. If he's carrying accepted photo ID (drivers license, passport, military ID etc.) that confirms he was born 21 years or more prior to that date, he may legally start drinking (and/or buy alcohol) at the stroke of midnight PST.
Whether he will be allowed into an alcohol-serving venue prior to midnight will depend on the nature of the venue (bar, nightclub, restaurant, showroom etc.) and the discretion/integrity of the staff.
Wherever you end up celebrating, we wish him a happy 21st. Have fun but please party responsibly. If you're all drinking, make sure to take public transport, a taxi, a limo (heck, it's his 21st!), or call designated drivers on 702/456-RIDE (7433).
Update 30 July 2009
A cautionary word from a reader:
"Just a word of caution for the guy turning 21: I was in Vegas earlier this month and two guys sat next to me at a table at the Venetian. The pit boss carded both of them and refused to let one guy play, even though it was the day of his 21st birthday.
"Apparently, his drivers license has expired at midnight and was therefore no longer considered valid ID. After the guys left (after much arguing), the pit boss told me this is a lot more common than you would think (people getting their licenses on their 16th birthday but forgetting to renew it before their big "legal trip").
No part of this answer may be reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the written permission of the publisher.
