Report

Can under-18s drink alcohol-free beer?

By Alex Stewart

Updated 1 November 2026. Every figure links to its source below. How these pages are made.

Cafe table with orange juice and lemonade — Illustrative image

Quick answerLegally, yes. The Licensing Act 2003 and Scotland's 2005 Act do not count drinks of 0.5% or less as alcohol, so the under-18 offences do not apply. In practice, many retailers and brands treat them as adult products, and Drinkaware says alcohol-free drinks are not suitable for under-18s. The pub rules for under-16s still apply to being on the premises.

What the law says

Section 191 of the Licensing Act 2003 (England and Wales) says "alcohol" does not include drinks "of a strength not exceeding 0.5% at the time of the sale or supply". Scotland's Licensing Act 2005 uses the same 0.5% line. So selling a 0.5% beer to a 16-year-old is not a licensing offence.

Rules for real beer, for comparison

However, if you’re 16 or 17 and accompanied by an adult, you can drink (but not buy) beer, wine or cider with a meal. If you’re 16 or under, you may be able to go to a pub (or premises primarily used to sell alcohol) if you’re accompanied by an adult. It can depend on the specific conditions of the premises.

Under-16s without an adult may not be in premises used mainly for selling alcohol, whatever they drink.

What the guidance says

Drinkaware: alcohol-free drinks can contain up to 0.5% and are not suitable "for under 18s". The Portman Group's code says alcohol alternatives are "intended for adult consumers" and must not be marketed to appeal to under-18s.

Where IMPOSSIBREW fits

IMPOSSIBREW, which publishes this site, labels its 0.5% beers “Over 18s. Consume Responsibly.”, and its functional blend is designed for adults.

This page explains the rules; it is not legal advice.

FAQs

Is it illegal for under-18s to buy alcohol-free beer?

Not under the Licensing Act 2003 if it is 0.5% or less. Many shops and brands still restrict sales to adults.

Can a 16-year-old drink alcohol-free beer in a pub?

Drinking a 0.5% beer is not a licensing offence. Under-16s must be with an adult in premises used mainly to sell alcohol.

Is alcohol-free beer suitable for children?

Drinkaware says alcohol-free drinks are not suitable for under-18s.

Sources

All read 1 November 2026 unless stated.