There are many questions regarding dating at a young age. Can a 21 year old date a 18 year old? Let’s go over the details below.
Hopefully after reading through these frequently asked questions, you’ll understand what is legal, consensual, and normal for young relationships.
Let’s dive in…
Is It Legal for a 21 Year Old to Date a 18 Year Old?
Yes, it is legal for a 21 year old to date a 18 year old. Both ages are considered adults, meaning they are legally allowed to have sex.
Can a 21 Year Old Date a 18 Year Old?
Yes, a 21 year old can date a 18 year old. It is completely legal because both parties are considered adults.
They can engage in sexual intercourse as long as both parties consent without being forced, unconscious, mentally impaired, or drunk.
Can a 21 Year Old and 18 Year Old Have Sex?
Yes, it’s legal for a 21 year old and a 18 year old to have sex.
Because both parties are considered adults (and not minors), they are legally allowed to have sex without committing a crime.
As long as the sex is consensual from both parties without being forced, unconscious, mentally impaired, or drunk, then it is perfectly fine.
Is It Weird for an 18 Year Old to Date a 21 Year Old?
No, it’s not weird for an 18 year old to date a 21 year old. In fact, it’s quite normal.
Most college students are around the ages of 18-22, so it’s not uncommon to see a 21 year old and a 18 year old in a relationship.
Plus, the age gap between the two is very small. Both ages most likely share similar maturity, interests, and goals as well.
Related Post: 18 Things to Do When You Turn 18
Can a 21 Year Old Date a 17 Year Old?
A 21 year old can date a 17 year old as long as they are not having sex.
A 21 year old is considered an adult while a 17 year old is still a minor. It is illegal in most states for an adult to have a sexual relationship with a minor.
It’s considered a crime for an adult and a minor to have sex unless they are married.
A 17 year old is too young to consent for themselves in most states, therefore engaging in sex could be charged as statutory rape.
Can a 18 Year Old Date a 17 Year Old?
Yes, an 18 year old can date a 17 year old. It’s legal to be in a relationship, but the 17 year old must be at the age of consent in their specific state to have sex.
For example, a 17 year old in Colorado can legally consent to sex with a 18 year old. However, a 17 year old in California can’t legally consent to sex with a 18 year old.
You can check the laws for each state here.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Check the laws in your state to find out what ages are appropriate for dating, sex, and consent.
Hopefully you understand whether or not a 21 year old can date a 18 year old and all the other ages in between.
Stay safe!
If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions leave them down below. Thanks for reading!
