Rhode Island uses implied consent for boat operators. The portable breath test (PBT) on the water is often the first measurement. Refusing the post-arrest evidentiary breath test triggers separate Traffic Tribunal penalties under section 31-27-2.1 including license suspension and a civil fine. PBT refusal has fewer consequences than evidentiary test refusal.
Do I have to take the breath test on the boat?The RI DUI Guy - Chad F Bank2026-05-23T02:27:25-04:00