At what age may a New York resident legally purchase lottery tickets?
Has no one ever wished they could be the lucky winner after passing a bright New York Lottery sign? You are not alone if you have. Millions of New Yorkers can’t get enough of the thrill of playing scratch-offs, winning the huge Powerball jackpots, and participating in the daily Quick Draw games. You should know the minimum age to purchase a lottery ticket in New York before you immerse yourself in the realm of lucky numbers and second chances.
The age requirement to buy lottery tickets in New York is, in fact, quite low—at least 18 years old. Whether you’re purchasing instant scratch-off cards or more conventional draw game tickets like Mega Millions, Powerball, or Lotto, this age restriction remains in place. This simple guideline is put in place to promote responsible gaming and shield younger people from the dangers that come with gambling.
But here’s the intriguing part: there’s an additional criterion in Quick Draw, a keno-like, fast-paced lottery game. A minimum age of 21 is required to purchase a Quick Draw ticket in any establishment that serves alcoholic beverages. Incorporating this requirement into lottery rules brings them in line with New York’s alcohol laws and adds another level of accountability when drinking is involved.
Merchants consider this a top priority. It is a misdemeanour in New York State to sell a lottery ticket to an underage buyer. Like when purchasing alcoholic beverages or tobacco products, store employees must request proper identification from customers whose age is questionable.
For what reason are there such stringent provisions?
The lottery may be entertaining, but it is still gambling, and research shows that young people are more likely to develop gambling problems. Legislation with a minimum age helps discourage underage gaming and prevents kids from getting into dangerous habits at a young age.
Keep this in mind the next time you’re going to give a lottery ticket as a present, particularly for a birthday or holiday: children under the age of 18 should not get lottery tickets. Unknowingly exposing youngsters to gambling can happen even with a scratch-off that seems like fun.
Simply put, you must be of legal gambling age to play, regardless of whether you are seeking a life-changing sum or are simply seeking a little entertainment. The winning combination in a New York City Quick Draw game is 18, and at a pub it’s 21.
Play responsibly and best of luck!