Germany’s cabinet approved a Youth Protection Act reform on August 12, 2026.
The reform ends “accompanied drinking” (begleitetes Trinken). It’s the rule that lets 14- and 15-year-olds drink with a parent present. Once passed, 16 becomes the minimum age for beer, wine, and sparkling wine.
What “accompanied drinking” allowed until now
Until now, the law allowed an exception for teens. 14 and 15-year-olds could drink beer, wine, or sparkling wine in public.
This required a parent or legal guardian to be present. The guardian also had to give permission.
Spirits were never included in this exception. The minimum age for hard liquor has always been 18.
Families often used this rule at confirmations and communions. A small glass of beer or wine was common under parental supervision, including in expat households that adopted local customs.
Why the government is scrapping “accompanied drinking”
Family Minister Karin Prien (CDU) presented the reform to the cabinet. She framed it as a health protection measure.
The government says the exception weakens youth protection. It normalizes drinking before the body finishes developing.
Germany’s health ministers backed a ban in 2025. The Bundesrat pushed for it too. It is the chamber representing the states.
Federal drug commissioner Hendrik Streeck also supports the change. A 2025 Forsa poll found two-thirds of adults in favor.
The alcohol change is part of a larger reform. This 56-page bill covers broader child and youth welfare policy.
The reform is broader than alcohol rules alone. It also includes:
- Simplified procedures for placing unaccompanied foreign minors
- Centralized support contacts for young people with disabilities
- Stronger preventive services, including parenting courses and family counseling
- Reformed foster care placement procedures
Some social organizations have raised concerns. They worry about school support for children with disabilities under the broader bill.
What stays the same for legal drinking age
Two other age thresholds do not change. They are:
- Age 16 stays the minimum for beer, wine, and sparkling wine, with no exception once the reform takes effect
- Age 18 stays the minimum for spirits and mixed drinks containing spirits
Selling alcohol to minors outside this exception was illegal before. That rule stays the same.
NOTE: The law is not yet in force. The cabinet approved the draft, but the Bundestag must still vote. No date is set yet, and the text could still change.
Sources
- https://www.bmfsfj.de/bmfsfj/aktuelles/presse/pressemitteilungen/kabinett-beschliesst-neues-jugendschutzgesetz-161194
- https://www.zdfheute.de/politik/deutschland/begleitetes-trinken-alkohol-jugendliche-14-jaehrige-100.html
- https://www.tagesspiegel.de/politik/ende-des-begleiteten-trinkens-kabinett-will-alkohol-fur-14-jahrige-verbieten-15936603.html
