By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed December 14, 2022
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State laws dictate what age an individual 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 Missouri 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 Missouri.
Learn more about Missouri's legal age laws in the following table and corresponding links to related topics.
Age of Majority |
18 (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 431.055) |
|---|---|
Eligibility for Emancipation |
N/A |
Contracts by Minors |
|
Minors' Ability to Sue |
|
Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment |
|
Legal Age for Alcohol, Tobacco, or E-cigarette Purchase and/or Consumption |
21 (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 311.325.1) |
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 want to know more about emancipation laws, a minor's ability to enter into a business contract, or even get married, you'll want to speak with a Missouri legal expert to get the most up-to-date information. Doing a web search for the laws will only get you so far. If you have more complicated questions or need legal representation, talk to a family law attorney in Missouri today.
Contact a qualified attorney.
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