Drinking age in Norway (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: In Norway, alcohol with less than 22% alcohol by volume may not be sold, served or handed over to anyone under 18, and drinks of 22% or more not to anyone under 20. It is not an offence for a person under the limit to buy or drink alcohol, but selling, serving or handing over alcohol to them is banned. Rules on drinking in public places were not verified.

RuleWhat applies
Minimum age to buy beer and wineBuying and drinking alcohol18 years [1]
Minimum age to buy spiritsBuying and drinking alcohol20 years [1]
Drinking by younger people with an adultBuying and drinking alcoholSelling, serving or handing over alcohol to anyone under the age limit is banned, even if the young person shows an order or authorisation from a parent or guardian. It is not an offence for a person under the limit to buy or drink alcohol; the seller or server is liable. [1]
Drinking in public placesBuying and drinking alcohol⚠ Not yet verified
Where and when alcohol is soldBuying and drinking alcoholFor drinks with up to 4.7% alcohol by volume, the Alcohol Act sets normal sale hours of 08:00 to 18:00 on weekdays and until 15:00 on days before Sundays and public holidays; a municipality may shorten them in the licence decision. Sale to anyone under the age limits is banned. [2]

Notes

  • The limit of 18 applies to all drinks with less than 22% alcohol by volume, including low-strength drinks from 0.7% (for example light beer). Mixed drinks follow the strongest component on its original packaging.
  • The limit of 20 applies to drinks with 22% alcohol by volume or more.
  • Handing over alcohol to a person under the age limit is banned; it is not an offence for the minor to buy or drink.
  • No national rule on drinking in public places was read from an official source.
  • Sale hours for drinks up to 4.7%; rules for stronger drinks were not read.

Sources

  1. Helsedirektoratet: § 1-5. Aldersgrenser (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Helsedirektoratet: Utøvelse av bevilling – salgs- og skjenkeregler (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

Compare all countries →

General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.