What is “Zero Blood Alcohol Level”?

The Zero BAC law means that certain drivers cannot have any presence of alcohol in their blood while they drive. This law applies to:

• all drivers age 21 or under
• novice drivers of any age

If you are caught with a BAC above zero, here is what will happen:

• your driver’s licence will be suspended on the spot for 24 hours…
• if convicted, your driver’s licence will be suspended again for at least 30 days and you will receive a $60-$500 fine

If you are a novice driver and have your licence suspended for drinking and driving, your licence could be cancelled. You will have to retake all your driving tests and repay all the fees.

License Loss & Reinstatement

There are different requirements for people convicted of impaired driving and those who are suspended for repeatedly driving in the warn range.

Criminal Conviction

If you have been convicted of impaired driving, you should register for an education or treatment program immediately, as the program can take up to 11 months to complete. You will need to complete all three components of the Back on Track program before your licence suspension expires. You will also need to satisfy all other requirements set by the courts to have your licence reinstated.

Ignition Interlock

If you are eligible for the Reduced Suspension with Ignition Interlock Conduct Review Program, you need to complete the assessment component of the Back on Track program before your licence is reinstated.

Warn Range Suspension

If you are fulfilling the Back on Track program because of a warn range suspension, you have 120 days from the start of your suspension to complete the education course and 180 days to complete the treatment course.