Skip to main content

Course Outline

Person in handcuffs; law enforcement vessel in the background

South Dakota law prohibits anyone from boating while intoxicated—that is, operating any vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times. Alcohol is a major contributor to boating accidents and fatalities.

South Dakota law states that a person is considered to be boating under the influence (BUI) if:

  • The alcohol concentration in his or her blood or breath is 0.08% or more or…
  • The person is under the influence of alcohol, any other drug, or a combination of drugs and/or alcohol to a degree that makes him or her incapable of safely operating the vessel.
  • Unit 4 of 6
  • Topic 4 of 19
  • Page 2 of 3