Underage Beer Buying: Sneaky Strategies For Minors

There are many ways that underage people try to buy beer. While it is illegal for under-18s to buy alcohol in the UK, and for adults to buy it on their behalf, young people have been known to attempt to buy it themselves while acting or looking older, or to ask strangers to buy it for them. Some underage drinkers have also reported stealing alcohol or using fake IDs.

Ask parents, older siblings, or friends

If you're underage and looking to buy beer, one option is to ask your parents, older siblings, or friends. Here are some things to keep in mind when approaching them:

Asking your parents:

• Be open and honest about your interest in trying beer. It's important to have a respectful conversation and not try to hide it from them.
• Discuss the legal drinking age in your country or state. In some places, it is legal for minors to drink under the supervision of their parents, so understand the laws in your area.
• Emphasize responsibility and moderation. Let your parents know that you plan to drink responsibly and are aware of the potential risks associated with alcohol consumption.
• Offer to have the beer with them. This shows that you're not trying to hide your drinking and want to include them in the experience.
• Respect their decision. If they say no, don't argue or try to convince them otherwise. Respect their choice and thank them for considering your request.

Asking older siblings or friends:

• Choose an appropriate time and place to have a conversation. Make sure you're in a private and comfortable setting where you can talk openly.
• Be honest about your request. Explain that you're interested in trying beer and would appreciate their help in purchasing it.
• Offer to pay them back. Let them know that you're willing to cover the cost of the beer, and maybe even give them a little extra for their trouble.
• Respect their boundaries. If they're uncomfortable with the idea or don't want to break any laws, don't pressure them. Respect their decision and thank them for listening.
• Ensure your safety. If they agree to help, make sure they are responsible and trustworthy. Don't put yourself in a risky situation or compromise your safety.

Remember, it's important to be responsible and aware of the legal and safety implications when consuming alcohol as a minor.

Get someone else to buy it

If you're underage and looking to buy beer, one common approach is to get someone else to purchase it for you. Here are some ways to go about it:

Older Friends or Siblings

Asking an older friend or sibling to buy beer for you is a frequently used tactic. This involves giving them money and sending them to a store to make the purchase on your behalf. It's important to note that in some places, it is illegal for an adult to buy alcohol for a minor, so be aware of the local laws.

Parents or Guardians

In some places, it is legal for parents or guardians to provide alcohol to their underage children in certain circumstances, such as when they are supervised at home. However, it is illegal for parents to give their children alcohol to drink in public or on the streets. Always ensure you have permission from other parents before offering their child alcohol, even in your own home.

Strangers

Another approach is to find a stranger who looks willing to help. This could involve waiting in the parking lot of a liquor store and asking someone who seems friendly to buy beer for you. This method can be risky, as you don't know the stranger's intentions, and they might not be trustworthy.

Homeless People

Some underage drinkers have reported giving money to homeless people and asking them to buy alcohol. This tactic may work because the homeless person might be more willing to take the risk of purchasing alcohol for a minor in exchange for some extra money.

Remember, while these methods might be commonly used, they are illegal in many places, and there are serious health risks associated with underage drinking. It's important to be aware of the potential consequences and make informed decisions.

Use a fake ID

Using a fake ID is a common method for minors to obtain alcohol. However, it is important to note that this is illegal and can result in serious consequences if caught. Here are some detailed instructions on how to use a fake ID to buy beer as an underager:

Creating a Convincing Fake ID:

• The first step is to obtain a high-quality fake ID. This can be done by altering an existing ID or creating a new one. Some people use photo editing software to modify their date of birth on a real ID, while others may purchase fake IDs online or from underground sources.
• Ensure that the ID looks authentic and resembles a legitimate form of identification, such as a driver's license. Pay attention to the design, formatting, and security features of real IDs to make yours as convincing as possible.

Practicing Your Disguise:

• Once you have your fake ID, practice using it in front of a mirror. Adjust your appearance to match the ID as closely as possible, including hairstyle, facial hair, and clothing style.
• Study the details of the ID and memorize the information, such as the name, address, and date of birth. This will help you appear more confident when presenting the ID.

Choosing the Right Location:

Not all stores have the same level of security when it comes to checking IDs. Look for stores that have a reputation for being lax or that are located in areas with a high density of colleges or universities, as clerks may be less stringent in these areas.

Executing the Purchase:

• When you enter the store, act naturally and confidently. Avoid drawing attention to yourself by being overly nervous or fidgety.
• If possible, time your visit during busy hours when the clerk is more likely to be rushed and less likely to scrutinize your ID.
• Present your fake ID when asked for identification. Hold it steadily and avoid shaking or stuttering, which may arouse suspicion.

Remember, using a fake ID comes with significant risks. The penalties for underage drinking and possessing a fake ID can be severe, including fines, criminal records, and even arrest. Additionally, technology to detect fake IDs is constantly improving, making it increasingly difficult to get away with using one. Always be aware of the potential consequences and make informed decisions.

Find a store that doesn't check IDs

Finding a store that doesn't check IDs is a common method used by underage drinkers to obtain alcohol. Here are some tips to find such stores:

Firstly, look for stores that are located in areas with a high density of young people, such as college towns or neighbourhoods with a significant youth population. These stores may be more likely to cater to underage drinkers due to the demographics of their customer base.

When scouting for potential stores, observe the interactions between customers and staff. Take note of whether the staff actively checks IDs or seems lax in their enforcement. Stores with younger staff members may be more likely to turn a blind eye to underage purchases.

Another strategy is to utilise specialty or independent stores. Larger chain stores often have stricter policies and more comprehensive staff training regarding ID checks. Smaller, independent stores may have more relaxed policies or less consistent enforcement, providing an opportunity for underage drinkers.

Additionally, try to establish a familiar presence in the store. After visiting the store a few times and interacting with the staff, they may become more comfortable with you and be less likely to ask for ID. This strategy can be particularly effective in smaller stores with regular customers.

You can also try visiting stores during busier times, as staff may be less vigilant about checking IDs when there are long lines or crowds of customers.

Remember that even if a store has a reputation for not checking IDs, it is still illegal for them to sell alcohol to minors. There is always a risk of being caught, and the consequences can include fines and legal penalties for both the seller and the underage purchaser.

Steal it

If you're thinking of stealing beer, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, where are you stealing it from? If you're planning on taking beer from a shop, this will be very different from stealing from a parent or guardian.

Let's start with stealing from a shop. The best way to do this is to conceal the beer in a bag or under your clothes. Wear a large jacket or coat and take a bag that zips up or seals shut. Go to the beer aisle and look for small, individual bottles or cans. Take a few and hide them in your bag or under your clothes. Be aware that there may be security guards or cameras in the shop, so try to act naturally and don't draw attention to yourself. Leave the shop calmly and head to a safe place where you won't be seen drinking or caught with the stolen goods.

Now, if you're thinking of stealing beer from your parents or guardians, the approach is a little different. Firstly, you need to know where they keep the beer and how much they have. Look for opportunities when they are not around or are distracted. Take one or two beers at most, as taking too many will likely get you caught. You can try the "accident" method, where you open the beer, pour it into another container, and then refill the bottle with a different liquid. Then, pretend to be making a sandwich or getting something from the fridge. Drop the bottle and let it smash on the floor. Your parents will think it was an accident and you will be able to drink the beer you poured into the other container.

Another way to steal beer from your parents is to wait until they are out or until they go to bed. Take a small amount of beer from each bottle, so that it is not too noticeable. You can drink it straight away or pour it into another container for later. Just be sure to seal the bottles back up tightly so that no one notices.

Remember, stealing is illegal and can have consequences, so think carefully before you act.

Frequently asked questions