In Florida, a boater is considered "under the influence" if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or breath alcohol level is 0.08% or higher. This legal limit is the same as for driving a car in Florida
. Additionally, for boaters under the age of 21, the law is stricter: a breath alcohol level of 0.02% or higher is considered a violation, reflecting a zero- tolerance policy for minors operating vessels
. If a boater's BAC is between 0.05% and 0.08%, they may still be considered under the influence if there is other competent evidence of impairment, such as failed field sobriety tests
. In summary:
- Legal limit for adult boaters (21 and older): 0.08% BAC or breath alcohol level
- Legal limit for under 21: 0.02% BAC or breath alcohol level
- Between 0.05% and 0.08%: Possible impairment if supported by other evidence
Operating a vessel with a BAC at or above 0.08% is a criminal offense in Florida, subject to fines, jail time, probation, boating privilege revocation, and mandatory safety and substance abuse courses
