Shoulder tap (alcohol)

A shoulder tap is an act in which a minor asks an adult to purchase alcohol beverages for the minor. The definition of minor and adult vary by jurisdiction depending on the drinking age, but is usually between ages 18–21. Typically, the minor will walk around a convenience store and solicit help from a passing adult stranger. This is also commonly known as a "Hey Mister". A Los Angeles Police Department survey indicated that almost half of minors who attempt to acquire alcohol use this method. Such communities use sting operations to deter adult assistance and promote awareness of the legal consequences of helping minors obtain alcohol.

In 2001, a Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) chapter conducted a small unscientific study in Massachusetts, in which teens stood in front of 15 stores and asked 100 adults apparently over the age of 21 to buy them alcohol. 83 of the adults refused and 17 agreed.

In England and Wales, buying alcohol on behalf of a person under 18 is a summary offence under section 149 of the Licensing Act 2003, punishable by an unlimited fine (level 5 on the standard scale). There is an exception for beer, wine or cider served to a 16 or 17 year old with a meal at a table.