In the U.S., you must be 21 years of age in order to purchase alcohol. All establishments that serve alcohol will ask for identification with proof of age before serving alcohol to anyone. Typically, ID cards are accepted, however you may be asked to show a passport in order to purchase alcohol. Purchasing and/or providing alcohol to people below the age of 21 is also illegal.

Marijuana is legal according to state law in 5 states, and the District of Columbia. It is still illegal federally. That means that federal agents can still detain you for use, possession, or sale of marijuana. Before purchasing, selling, or consuming marijuana in any form, review all laws and regulations in your relevant jurisdiction. For more information, visit the White House’s official page on marijuana.

Possession, use, or sale of any other type of drug is illegal in the U.S. If caught with any type of drug (prescription medication aside) you can face heavy criminal penalties.

For information on the extent of consular assistance, see this link.

You can find the contact information for all Spanish Consulates in the U.S. here.

For further information on Safety and Security while travelling in the U.S., see our Travel Recommendations​ page.