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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).

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  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.

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What's a boater's favorite drink? A root beer float.
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References

Answer: .08 percent. 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.

  1. 33 CFR Part 95, Operating a Vessel While Under the Influence www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/chapter-I/subchapter-F/part-95
    has a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level of .08 percent or more, by weight, in their blood
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. 33 CFR Part 95, Operating a Vessel While Under the Influence www.ecfr.gov/current/title-33/chapter-I/subchapter-F/part-95
    then that level applies within the geographical boundaries of that State instead of the level provided in § 95.020(a) of this part.
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  3. USCG A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats (2023) www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf
    Alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating incidents.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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