Impaired driving is illegal and dangerous. Police can suspend a driver’s licence of any driver with a blood alcohol content (BAC) over .08 or any driver refusing to provide a breath sample.

• The suspension applies to all classes of driver’s licence
• This is an immediate 7-day suspension which is given at roadside.
• The vehicle will be taken from roadside and impounded.
• The driver of the vehicle will be given paperwork about the impoundment by the police officer.
• Information will be mailed to the driver from Motor Registration.

Then, 14 days later, the driver’s licence is automatically suspended for 90 days. During those 14 days the driver should make alternative transportation arrangements.

Impaired drivers may also be charged under Criminal Code of Canada

• The Criminal Code charge is separate from the administrative suspension.

Appeal a 90-day Suspension

The suspension may be appealed if:

• the driver who was suspended is not the same person to whom a demand was made; or
• the driver failed or refused to comply with a demand because they were unable to do so for medical reasons.

To appeal submit an application to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles

• Applications must be submitted within 30 days of the offence date
• The applicant can have their appeal heard in writing or orally. The applicant’s choice must be indicated on the application.
• The Registrar will provide a written confirmation of receipt of the appeal and will specify the deadline for submitting any documents to support the appeal.
• If the appeal is heard orally, information regarding the time, date, and location of the appeal will also be included in this correspondence.
• An appeal will be heard within 30 days after the deadline for submitting documents and evidence.
• The Registrar has up to 15 business days after the appeal to make a decision based on the evidence provided.