Legal Age by Country

Eighteen. In almost every country listed here you become an adult at 18 and can vote at 18. Driving and drinking ages vary more, from 16 to 21.

Of the countries listed here, United States, United Arab Emirates and Qatar set 21. Several Nordic countries use 18 for weaker drinks and 20 for spirits, and Germany, Austria and Belgium allow beer and wine at 16.

Austria lets 16-year-olds vote in every election. Brazil allows optional voting at 16, and Germany, Belgium, Scotland and Wales let 16-year-olds vote in some elections.

The UK, Ireland, Australia (except Victoria), France, Poland and the UAE let 17-year-olds drive; Germany, the Netherlands, Austria and Denmark allow it with an adult in the car. In much of the US and Canada you can start at 16.

In many countries, yes, with a parent’s or a court’s consent. Countries such as the UK (except Scotland), Germany, the Netherlands, the Nordic countries, Mexico, Portugal and Austria now set 18 with no exceptions. Each country page explains its rules.