How Long Do You Lose Your License For a DUI in Ontario?

DUI conviction can have devastating repercussions, even for first time offenders. Licence suspension, Back on Track education and treatment program mandatory participation fees as well as costs for an Ignition Interlock device are only part of the equation; additional administrative fines, impound fees and license reinstatement charges could apply as well.

An arrest may lead to a 90 day driving prohibition and your vehicle impounded for 7 days; your insurance rates will also skyrocket.

First Offense

If this is your first offense, the judge may consider mitigating factors and reduce or waive the jail sentence; instead you could receive an at-least one-year driving prohibition (coinciding with provincial license suspension), fines, vehicle impoundment and enrollment in educational/treatment programs.

If convicted of impaired driving, an alcohol ignition interlock device could be installed as part of your sentence – at a minimum cost of $1,500 plus $100 monthly testing fees – with your auto insurance rates increasing rapidly because they will now consider you an “at risk driver”.

DUI laws vary by jurisdiction. Therefore, it’s essential to hire a firm familiar with local regulations who can devise an effective defense strategy.

Second Offense

Arrest for DUI can be one of the most disturbing experiences to ever occur in your life, not only through possible jail time and fines but also by impacting your criminal record, which employers or others can use to assess past behavior and history.

Hiring a Toronto DUI attorney for a second offense can significantly increase your chances of having charges reduced or dismissed entirely. They will explain what has happened, provide advice on the best course of action, and represent you at court proceedings.

If convicted, drivers’ licences are suspended between one year for first offenses and lifetime in cases involving repeat violations. As part of your punishment, an ignition interlock device – similar to a breathalyzer that must be passed before your car will start up again – may need to be installed in their vehicles during this time. So How long do you lose your license for a dui in Ontario?

Third Offense

An arrest for third DUI offense can be considered serious business. A conviction will lead to at least a one year or five year driving prohibition depending on circumstances and prior record; additionally, criminal record will be created and compulsory enrollment in Back on Track program costing $634 is mandated as well. You’re only eligible to drive during this time if an ignition interlock device is installed in your car.

DUI offenses that cause bodily harm or death carry harsher punishment, including jail terms, longer license suspension periods and higher fines. Furthermore, the crown may argue for indictable charges instead of summary conviction in this situation.

For optimal defense against DUI charges, consult with a law firm that specializes in impaired driving cases in your jurisdiction and understands local laws.

Fourth Offense

If you are charged with DUI on your fourth offense, your license may be suspended permanently. Fortunately, though, you may still apply to reinstate it by enrolling in the Ignition Interlock Program whereby if you install an ignition interlock device in your car and meet other program requirements you will be permitted to drive again after some period.

Your mandatory minimum fine may increase to $1,000; further fees include costs related to attending drug and alcohol treatment programs, vehicle impound and storage fees and licence reinstatement charges. Furthermore, insurance rates will increase significantly as a result.

Police have recently made efforts to combat drug impaired driving due to growing evidence showing more severe motor vehicle accidents involve drugs than alcohol – some even leading to fatal crashes – leading to harsh penalties being applied when charged.