The day has finally arrived: You're 21. You've now officially graduated from partying in frat basements and grimy living rooms to being able to order adult beverages at the establishment of your choosing. Let me preface this by saying that on your 21st birthday, most of these rules don't apply. Do whatever your freshly legal heart wants. People will forgive you. But for every other night of your alcohol-fueled endeavors, everyone will secretly hate you for breaking these basic rules.

Let's set the scene: It's a Friday night, and it's 11 p.m. You and your pals decide to stroll up to the designated "party" bar in your town. The rules start here.

DO: Bring your ID. 

Even if you're a regular, there could be a new bouncer at the door. Arguing with them won't get you anywhere, and it will piss off everyone waiting in line behind you. 

DON'T: Cut in line.

I've noticed that girls are usually the most guilty of trying this. I mean, it will probably work if you look hot; but that doesn't make it any less annoying to everyone else.

DON'T: Show up totally blacked out.

Chances are, the bouncer won't let you in. Even if you pull a fast one and feign sobriety, you're probably either going to spend way too much money at the bar, go home with a wildebeest, or puke in the bathroom. But hey, if that's your kind of thing, go on with your bad self.

Now that you're inside, follow this basic bar etiquette:

DO: Tip your bartender. 

It's just common courtesy. You wouldn't stiff your waiter, so don't stiff your bartender.

DON'T: Linger after you're served. 

Oh my god, this is my biggest pet peeve. It happens all the time: a group of people will get their drinks, pay and just chat all nonchalantly while there's a line stacked four people deep behind them. Be aware of your surroundings. 

DO: Bring money.

No one likes a moocher. Girls, I know TV shows and movies might tell you that you can get free drinks all night if you bat your eyelashes, but it doesn't always work. This is especially true in a college town because let's be honest: We're all broke. 

DO: Know your limits.

I think we're all a little guilty of overindulging sometimes, but getting cut off at the bar is embarrassing. Nothing screams "I'm a huge noob" like having two big black X's drawn on your hands. On that note....

DON'T: Argue with the bouncer or bartender.

If you're cut off, accept your fate with dignity. Do not try to plead your way back into the bartender's good graces. You'll just embarrass yourself more.

And one last rule for good measure:

DON'T: Play Nickelback on the jukebox.

Can I get an Amen?