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Oklahoma’s Boating and Alcohol Laws

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Oklahoma's State Boating Laws

Boating and Alcohol: The Laws

According to Oklahoma’s boating and alcohol laws, it is illegal to lease or otherwise give permission to another person to operate any boat on any waters, except privately owned waters, while the operator is under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other controlled substances.

Boating and Alcohol Laws in Oklahoma

In Oklahoma, a person is considered to be under the influence if:

  • They have a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) level  of 0.10% or greater as measured in the person’s breath or blood.
  • They are under the influence of another controlled substance to a degree that makes him or her incapable of safe operation.

In Oklahoma, a person convicted of operating under the influence will be subject to the following penalties:

  • On a first conviction they will receive a fine of up to $1,000.
  • On a second, or subsequent conviction, they will receive a fine of up to $2,500 and not less than $1,000.

Implied Consent

Any person operating a boat on Oklahoma waterways is deemed to have given consent to a test or tests to determine if they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, if requested to do so by a peace officer. Refusal to submit to testing may result in increased penalties upon conviction.

Oklahoma’s  Law Enforcement Authority

Boating laws in Oklahoma are enforced by:

  • Oklahoma Highway Patrol Division.
  • Lake Patrol Section troopers.
  • The Coast Guard (on federal waters).

Law enforcement in the state of Oklahoma have the authority to stop and board boats to ensure they are complying with state and federal laws. Refusal to comply is illegal.