It's the Law: On the Water

Alcohol and Drugs

Louisiana law prohibits anyone from operating a vessel of any kind while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.

• A person is considered to be intoxicated if he or she:
  • Has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or greater and is 21 years of age or older or ...
  • Has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02% or greater and is under 21 years of age.
• The law also prohibits the owner or person in charge of a vessel from knowingly allowing a person who is intoxicated or under the influence of drugs to operate the vessel.

• Penalties for operating a vessel of any kind while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs include a fine of up to $1,000, imprisonment up to six months, or both.
• By operating a vessel on Louisiana waters, you have consented to be tested for alcohol or drugs if arrested by a law enforcement officer.
• Any arrest for DUI while boating will affect your automobile driving privileges.
• Persons operating a vehicle or vessel who commit a DUI offense and have their automobile driver’s license suspended or revoked also will have their boating privileges suspended or revoked.