The age of majority is the age a child is legally considered to be an adult. It is determined by each province.

The age of majority is 18 in:

• Alberta
• Manitoba
• Ontario
• Prince Edward Island
• Quebec
• Saskatchewan

The age of majority is 19 in:

• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Nunavut
• Yukon

What can you do when you reach the age of majority?

Generally, once you reach the age of majority, you can:

• Vote
• Be paid full minimum wage
• Access social assistance
• Sign legal contracts, sue, or be sued
• Change your name
• Have access to other services 

How is the age of majority different from the legal age?

Although in most circumstances, a person is considered a child, or minor, until they reach the age of majority, there is more than one definition of “child” under the law. There are many circumstances where the age limit may be lower than the age of majority in order for the person to be considered a minor. Which definition applies depends on the situation. For example, age limits can vary in the following circumstances: getting a licence or purchasing alcohol or cannabis, being entitled to protective services or child support, having the right to move out of your parents’ home, and being tried as an adult in criminal court. For more information, view other answers under Who is considered a child?

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