IYI Logo

Underage Drinking

Summary

Underage alcohol consumption is common in the United States and can have harmful outcomes. A comprehensive approach that includes effective policy strategies can prevent underage drinking and related harms.

Underage Drinking is Common

Alcohol is the most commonly used substance among young people in the U.S.3

The 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey3 found that among high school students, during the past 30 days

  • 23% drank alcohol.
  • 11% binge drank.
  • 5% of drivers drove after drinking alcohol.
  • 14% rode with a driver who had been drinking alcohol.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2022). Underage Drinking.