By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed December 14, 2022
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State law dictates what age individuals must be to get married, enter contracts, take out student loans, or make other legal decisions. Those under the "age of majority," or minors, are considered incapable of making such decisions in the eyes of the law.
The state of Minnesota recognizes the age of majority as age 18. When a minor reaches age 18, they are considered an adult thereafter. State laws also govern a minor's ability to become emancipated from their parents or legal guardians, give consent for medical treatment, purchase and consume alcohol, and other legal matters.
This article provides a brief overview of the legal age statutes in the state of Minnesota.
A summary of Minnesota legal age laws is listed in the following chart, with links to related sources. See Emancipation of Minors and Parental Liability Basics for additional information.
Age of Majority |
18 (Minn. Stat. § 645.45) |
|---|---|
Eligibility for Emancipation |
N/A |
Contracts by Minors |
Minors may enter contracts for necessities only; other contracts are voidable (common law) |
Minors' Ability to Sue |
At 14, a minor may petition the court while being represented by a guardian ad litem (Minn. R. Civ. P. § 17.02) |
Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment |
Minors may consent if living apart from their parents and managing their own financial affairs if married or parent, or for pregnancy, venereal disease, or substance abuse (Minn. Stat. § 144.341 et seq.) |
Legal Age for Alcohol, Tobacco, or E-cigarette Purchase and/or Consumption |
21 (Minn. Stat. § 340A.503 and Minn. Stat. § 609.685) |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Whether you are looking to file a lawsuit, get emancipated, or get certain types of healthcare, you'll want to know the law in Minnesota and how it may impact your ability to do any of those things. To learn more about the rights and obligations you have as both a young person and an adult, you should speak with an experienced Minnesota family law attorney.
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