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Official online boating safety course for Wisconsin Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

It's the Law: On the Water

Alcohol and Drugs

Wisconsin law prohibits operating a motorboat or manipulating water skis or similar devices while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment and slow reaction time.

  • Anyone who operates or attempts to operate a vessel is deemed to have given consent to an alcohol and/or drug test.
  • It is illegal for a person to operate a motorboat or use water skis, a surfboard, or other device if he or she:
    • Is under the influence of an intoxicant or a controlled substance or …
    • Has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or greater.

Don't drink and boat!

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Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
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The Handbook of Wisconsin Boating Laws and Responsibilities
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Online boating safety handbook last modified: April 22, 2008
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