What is the standard drink size for beer?

The standard drink size for beer is defined as 12 ounces. This measurement corresponds to a typical serving of beer that contains about 0.6 ounces of pure alcohol, regardless of the beer’s alcohol content. This standard size facilitates the understanding of alcohol consumption levels and helps individuals keep track of their intake.

While smaller sizes, such as 8 ounces, are sometimes served in certain contexts (like craft breweries), they do not represent the commonly accepted measure for a standard drink. Likewise, larger sizes, such as 16 or 20 ounces, refer to various serving sizes available in bars and restaurants but exceed the standard definition. The establishment of the 12-ounce measure aids in educating bartenders and customers alike about responsible drinking practices.