Before you set sail on a Michigan lake or waterway, take a minute to review these boater safety laws.

• Drinking on the water is legal 
• Operating a boat while drunk is illegal (BAC of .08 or higher)
• Law enforcement officers may board a boat if laws are being violated
• Boat drivers on Michigan waters have automatically consented to
  testing for alcohol or drugs if arrested
• Intoxicated boat drivers with passengers 16 or younger on board will
  be subject to additional penalties
• Boats must have a lifejacket for each passenger
• Children under 6 must wear a lifejacket
• You can operate a boat without restrictions if you were born before
  July 1, 1996
• You must have a boater safety certificate with you to operate a boat 
  over 6 horsepower if you are born after July 1, 1996

Learn more about Michigan boating regulations here.