The article presents a comparativist analysis of the age limit of the subject of criminal responsibility. The age as a characteristic of the subject of crime is considered in the context of determining the criteria on which the legislator should rely when setting the minimum age limit. These should include both legal and psychological indicators. Among the psychological indicators, the sufficiency of mental development is important, as well as the ability of the person to consciously selective behavior. The arguments of supporters and opponents of lowering the age limit of criminal liability from 16 and 14 years to 14 and 12 years respectively are evaluated. The authors conclude that today there is no need to adjust the age of criminal responsibility downwards.