Pool is a fun and easy game to get into, especially when a beginner, but what age do you need to be to play pool? Is it 18? 21? Or maybe even younger?
You can be any age to play pool, but there are age limits when it comes to competitions and going to pool halls. Most pool halls’ age limit is 18, but this number can change.
The age restriction can change depending on the location you are playing pool. But most competitions do have an age restriction. Continue reading to learn what those are.
How Old Do You Need To Be To Play Pool?
The age restriction changes depending on where you play pool. But if you have a pool table at home, it is a great game for the whole family to play and love.
Bars
Most bars only allow people who are legally able to drink, 21 years of age. Thus, the only people who can play pool at these establishments must be at least 21 years old.
A few states allow those 18 years old into bars but are not allowed to drink, but only a few, and usually based on the city you are in.
Pool Halls
Most, if not all, have an age restriction of 18 years old. Some pool halls that sell alcohol may have an age restriction of 21 years old. It just depends on the location.
There are some locations that allow those who are 16 years of age to play, but it isn’t that often. You will find that most locations are 18 years old or even older.
Other Competitions
There are many competitions you can attend when it comes to pool. Some competitions may have an age limit of 16, but some may have a higher limit.
The age limit is determined by the location at which the competition is being held. But most professional competitions usually have the cut-off at 18 years of age.
Where Can Minors Play?
Just because these locations and competitions do have an age limit doesn’t mean minors can’t play pool. Billiards is a wonderful game for kids to play, and it isn’t too strenuous on their bodies.
Once a minor is able to stand or position themselves to shoot pool, they can play it. You can even get mini pool tables for them to practice on for when they can reach the pool table.
But if the minor is in their teens or even a little younger and wants to play pool for fun, then there are places they can go to. Some of those places are:
- Arcades
- Bowling Alley
- Establishments geared towards children
- At Home
Many of these places have pool tables your kids can play at without an age limit.
Arcades
Arcades have many games, including pool tables. Minors and children can go to the arcades and practice playing pool. It won’t be competitive, but it is a great outlet for some fun.
This is when they can begin practicing pool etiquette even if they don’t want to compete. It is good to practice these manners.
Bowling Alley
Not every bowling alley will have billiards, but many of the older bowling alleys do. Playing billiards was a great companion game to bowling.
A bowling alley may have an age limit, but most allow anyone to use the pool table as long as they are being respectful and leave things as they arrived or even better.
Children’s Establishments
There are other children’s establishments that may have pool tables. You may not find one in establishments made for younger children, but if it is geared towards teens, then maybe.
These types of establishments may include trampoline parks, arcades, pizza places, amusement parks, go-carts, and more. Not everyone will have a table, but these are great places to look if you are searching for one.
At Home
If all else fails and your teen or child wants to learn pool, you can have one at home. They can be big and bulky, but there are smaller versions they can practice with.
There are mini pool tables that you can purchase that can sit on top of your dining table. You can move this mini pool table to wherever you want, and it doesn’t take up too much space.
Pool is a fun way to have a family night and get to know each other. It isn’t too physically difficult and will teach your children a little geometry and strategy.
Outro
Billiards can be a game for everyone and doesn’t have to be for those 18 years and older. You just need to find the best place for you and anyone in your family. It is a fun game to bring everyone together!