Underage Drinking

The Highland Park Department of Public Safety is committed to the elimination of needless injury and death of our young persons from incidents involving alcohol. We believe that through strong and rigorous enforcement of underage zero-tolerance laws, and with parental and community partnership, we will have a tremendous impact on the future of our community, our state, and our nation.

The Law

If you are under 21, it is illegal for you to purchase, attempt to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol. It's also against the law to misrepresent your age to try and obtain alcohol.

Minor in Possession or Minor in Consumption: First Offense

If you're a minor, here's what happens the first time you are found in possession of alcohol (any amount of beer, wine, or liquor will trigger the penalties):

• Driver's license suspension of 30 days
• Up to a $500 fine
• Eight to 12 hours of community service
• Mandatory attendance in alcohol awareness classes

Second & Third Offense

Additional Minor in Possession or Minor in Consumption offenses are enhanced, and a second or third charge can lead to suspension of your driver's license for 60 to 180 days. If a minor is seventeen years of age or older and the violation is the third offense, the offense is punishable by a fine up to $2,000, confinement in jail for up to 180 days, or both. On a third offense, the driver's license will receive an automatic suspension.

Helpful Information

For information about underage drinking, contact the Community Relations Officer at 214-559-9487. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is a good resource and they have added an online forum that addresses underage drinking.