FAQs: Beer Drinkers of America (BDOA)

Please find the most frequently asked questions about BDOA below. If you have additional questions, please comment below and I will respond. Or email me at hayden@beerdrinkersofamerica.org 

1. What’s in it for me?

As a member you get to be part of a nationwide community of beer drinkers. You’ll receive your own personalized membership card and be able to:

• Join or start local Chapters
• Attend socials and events
• Join competitions and challenges
• Win the National Championship Plaque
• Connect with fellow members

BDOA is built around good times, friendships, and beer-centered events.

2. Do I need to be 21 to join?

Yes. Membership in BDOA is meant for people who enjoy beer culture and community; since many events involve alcoholic beverages, it’s expected that members be of legal drinking age (21+ in the United States).

If you’re under the legal limit but still want to support the community and attend age-appropriate activities, you can check with BDOA Headquarters or with the local Chapter President about which events allow people under the age of 21.

3. Do I have to attend every meeting/event to keep my membership?

No. Membership doesn’t require you to attend every event. You can join and participate as much or as little as you want. Events and meetups are available to members who want to take part and connect with people locally.

You will not lose your membership for missing a meeting, Chapter gathering, or BDOA event.

4. Do I have to drink beer or can I join and drink something else?

You do not have to drink beer to join. BDOA is about community and connecting with people who enjoy beer culture — what you drink is up to you. Although, we do like when people drink beer!

Members who prefer other beverages are still welcome to be part of the organization, attend social events, and participate in activities. The vibe is inclusive, not exclusive!

5. What is the purpose of the organization?

The purpose of Beer Drinkers of America is to bring people together who appreciate beer and social connection. To build fun, friendly communities where members can meet, hang out, compete in challenges and share good times.

It’s about friendship, camaraderie, and making memories — whether at events, in local chapters, or online with members across the country.

6. What are Chapters?

Chapters are local groups of at least 20 members in a specific geographic area. Chapters give members a way to connect with members locally, attend meetups, participate in challenges, and represent their area in BDOA competitions.

Each Chapter is member-led and may organize its own socials, events, and activities while competing against other Chapters nationwide.

For more information on starting a Chapter, leadership roles, and how Chapters compete nationally, visit the Chapters page.

7. Is this a one-time membership or recurring?

BDOA currently offers a lifetime membership for $14.99 as a one-time payment.

This price and membership length are not permanent. As Beer Drinkers of America grows, membership pricing will increase and membership terms may shift from lifetime to fixed-length options. Early members receive the longest access at the lowest price.

8. What is the Championship Plaque and how is it awarded?

The Championship Plaque is the highest national honor in Beer Drinkers of America.

Throughout the year, members compete in official nationwide BDOA challenges and competitions. When a member wins a National Competition, their name is placed on the Championship Plaque, earning recognition for both the member and their Chapter.

Only Chapters may host the Championship Plaque.

9. How do I stay involved once I’m a member?

Once you’re a member, there are several ways to stay involved, including:

• Checking for a local Chapter in your area
• Following our event calendar
• Joining the Facebook group for your state
• Taking part in BDOA events and competitions
• Hosting your own events with your Chapter