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District of Columbia Age of Consent Laws 2026 — Is Age of Consent Legal in District of Columbia?

Regulated Updated 2026-05-24
⚠️
Quick Answer
Regulated
The age of consent in District of Columbia is 16. Sexual activity with a person below this age may constitute statutory rape regardless of consent. Close-in-age exemptions (Romeo and Juliet laws) may apply for partners close in age.
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Status
Regulated
Restrictions
Age of consent is 16. Positions of authority (teachers, coaches, clergy) may have higher age thresholds. Federal age of consent is 18 for certain crim
Prohibited Locations
Sexual activity with anyone below the age of consent is prohibited regardless of the location. Enhanced penalties apply near schools, parks, and other locations frequented by minors. All states prohibit sexual activity with prepubescent children regardless of age of consent laws.
Last Updated
2026-05-24
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Jump to: Statute Penalties Exceptions Updates Analysis Resources FAQ Legal Help

📖 Statute Reference

District of Columbia code § sexual offenses / age of consent / statutory rape

Source: District of Columbia state legislature & applicable code sections

🚨 Penalties for Violations

Statutory rape is a felony in District of Columbia. Penalties range from 1-50+ years imprisonment depending on the age difference, age of the victim, and whether force was involved. Lifetime sex offender registration may be required for certain offenses.

Penalties vary by local jurisdiction within District of Columbia — consult a local attorney for your specific situation

📄 Exceptions & Special Cases

Close-in-age exemptions (Romeo and Juliet laws) may allow consensual sexual activity between minors close in age. Marriage exemptions may apply if the minor is legally married. Mistake of age is generally not a defense.

🔄 Recent Changes

2025-2026: Several states have updated close-in-age exemption laws. Some legislatures are considering raising the age of consent. Federal legislation regarding online age verification and exploitation continues to evolve.

Last verified 2026-05-24. Laws may have changed since this date.

🔍 Expanded Analysis: District of Columbia Age of Consent Laws

What this means for residents and visitors: A in-depth review of Age of Consent laws in District of Columbia finds that the substance is classified as 'Regulated' under current state and federal statutes. The age of consent in District of Columbia is 16. Sexual activity with a person below this age may constitute statutory rape regardless of consent. Close-in-age exemptions (Romeo and Juliet laws) may Individuals planning to possess, purchase, or distribute Age of Consent in District of Columbia should be aware that Age of consent is 16. Positions of authority (teachers, coaches, clergy) may have higher age thresholds. Federal age of consent is 18 for certain crimes involving interstate travel or online activity.. We recommend consulting a qualified local attorney before relying on any legal status summary.

Related restrictions: Age of consent is 16. Positions of authority (teachers, coaches, clergy) may have higher age thresholds. Federal age of consent is 18 for certain crimes involving interstate travel or online activity.

This analysis is based on public legal sources as of 2026-05-24 and is not legal advice

🔗 Official Resources

Source: https://www.district-of-columbia.gov/

Official state government sources were referenced for this page

Check neighboring states

Maryland Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age of consent in District of Columbia?
Age of consent laws are regulated in District of Columbia. The age of consent in District of Columbia is 16. Sexual activity with a person below this age may constitute statutory
Are there close-in-age exemptions in District of Columbia?
Close-in-age exemptions (Romeo and Juliet laws) may allow consensual sexual activity between minors close in age. Marria
What are the penalties for violating age of consent laws in District of Columbia?
Statutory rape is a felony in District of Columbia. Penalties range from 1-50+ years imprisonment depending on the age d

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