AGE RESTRICTIONS

THE TRACE

The Trace is an invisible ward that immediately informs the Ministry if a minor has performed underage magic, outside of Hogwarts. This includes Hogsmeade village. It isn't the sort of magic that one can overcome in any way: not even an aging potion will do it.

If a student performs magic outside of school, there will be IC consequences. For a first offence, depending on which spell was used, the Ministry will issue the student with a warning. The second time, they will consider undergoing trial or sending out a final warning. A third offence means the confiscation and destruction of the student's wand, expulsion from Hogwarts and a ban on ever purchasing a wand again.

It's pretty severe, but it's something magical folk take seriously.

WIZARD BRITAIN

• Age 11 - Able to purchase a wand. The trace becomes active.
  
• Age 16 - Able to start having apparition lessons. Everyone of this age starts having them at Hogwarts.
  
• Age 17 - Trace is lifted and magic is allowed outside of Hogwarts. Witches and Wizards are now considered adults. This is the age of consent. You’re able to purchase cigarettes, alcohol, and age-restricted products, films and services legally. You’re able to take an apparition test and get an apparition license.
  

MUGGLE BRITAIN

• Age 16 - Age of consent. Able to hold a provisional driver’s license.
  
• Age 17 - Able to take driving lessons and take a driving test. Able to hold full driver’s license.
  
• Age 18 - The purchase of cigarettes, alcohol, knives, fireworks, solvents and other age-restricted products, films and services is now legal. Muggles are considered adults at this age.