SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-bui-federal-08

Under federal law, what blood alcohol level means a recreational boat operator is under the influence?

.08 percent or more (states may set their own).

  1. .05 percent
  2. .08 percent ✔
  3. .10 percent

Why: 33 CFR 95.020 sets the federal level at .08 percent BAC for recreational boat operators. A state's own limit applies on its waters, and the Coast Guard guide notes some states use .10.

Huh, didn't know that: The Coast Guard calls alcohol the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating incidents.

The dad joke
What's a boater's favorite drink? A root beer float.
Like this card?
Play the game

Sources

  1. 33 CFR 95.020 Standard for under the influence of alcohol or a dangerous drug (eCFR) https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/section-95.020
  2. USCG A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (2023) https://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf

Test yourself in the game

Boating & WaterFederal rules say a recreational boat must carry how many wearable life jackets?Boating & WaterAt what boat length does federal law add a throwable flotation device to the wearable ones?Boating & WaterUnder the federal rule, kids under what age must wear a life jacket on a moving boat?

That's stuff everyone should know.