By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed January 24, 2023
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
State laws dictate 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina.
The following table highlights some of North Carolina's legal age laws. See Emancipation of Minors and Parental Liability Basics to learn more.
| Age of Majority | 18 (N.C.G.S. § 48A-2) |
| Eligibility for Emancipation |
|
| Contracts by Minors |
|
| Minors' Ability to Sue | In actions or special proceedings where any of the plaintiffs are minors, a minor may sue through the representation of a guardian, testamentary guardian, or guardian ad litem (North Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure, Article 14, Rule 17(1)) |
| Minors' Consent to Medical Treatment | Any minor may give consent for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of venereal diseases, pregnancy, abuse of controlled substances or alcohol, and emotional disturbance (N.C.G.S. § 90-21.5) |
| Legal Age for Alcohol, Tobacco, or E-cigarette Purchase and/or Consumption | 21 (N.C.G.S. § 18B-300) |
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.
It can sometimes be confusing when trying to determine whether a certain legal restriction or privilege applies to you due to your age, whether you're seeking emancipation or need advice about managing your money. Usually, your best option is to speak with an attorney. Find a North Carolina family law attorney near you today.
Contact a qualified attorney.
Get tailored family law advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.