What is the Ignition Interlock Program?
The Alberta Ignition Interlock Program allows drivers with impaired driving suspensions to legally drive again under specific conditions.
An ignition interlock device is installed in your vehicle and requires you to provide a breath sample before starting the engine. If alcohol is detected above the legal limit, the vehicle will not start.
This program helps improve road safety while allowing individuals to maintain work, family, and daily responsibilities.
Who Needs to Participate?
You may be required or eligible to participate if you:
- Received an administrative suspension under Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS FAIL).
- Are required to take a mandatory education program with Alberta Impaired Driving Remedial Education Program. These programs are part of Alberta’s impaired driving education requirements:
- your Notice of Supsension/Notice of Administrative Penalty will outline which program you are required to complete
- either Planning Ahead (1-day program) or IMPACT (2-day program)
- Want to regain driving privileges before your IRS: FAIL suspension ends.
- Must complete all required programs before your driving privileges can be reinstated.
- If you have been convicted under the Criminal Code (Canada) of impaired driving:
- Your Notice of Suspension will outline which program you are required to complete
- May have the requirement to complete Planning Ahead or IMPACT
- Must complete all required programs before your driving privileges can be reinstated
- If you are unsure of your requirements, please contact Driver Monitoring and Compliance at 780-427-8230 or a registry agent office.
How the Program Works
The program allows you to drive with restrictions by:
- Installing an ignition interlock device in your vehicle;
- Obtaining a restricted driver’s licence;
- Driving only vehicles equipped with the device;
You must demonstrate a consistent ability to separate driving from alcohol use to complete the program successfully.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, you must:
- Complete all required suspension conditions;
- Not have any other active suspensions;
- Pay applicable reinstatement and program fees.
You can apply for the ignition Interlock:
- Planning Ahead – must be completed prior to ignition interlock device installation.
- IMPACT – must be completed prior to applying to the ignition interlock program.
Program Length: IRS: FAIL
The length of time depends on the offence:
- First offence: 90-day immediate suspension with additional 12 months suspension with the ignition interlock device
- Second offence: 90-day immediate suspension with additional 36 months with the ignition interlock device
- Third offence: may involve long-term or lifetime conditions.
- If you choose not to participate, you cannot legally drive until your IRS: FAIL suspension is fully complete
Program Length: Mandatory
The length of time depends on the offence:
- 1st Criminal Code Conviction is one (1) year mandatory IIP participation.
- 2nd Criminal Code Conviction is three (3) year mandatory IIP participation.
- 3rd or subsequent Criminal Code Conviction is five (5) year mandatory IIP participation.
Costs
Typical costs may include:
- Application fee: $63.00 for the Ignition Interlock Program Application, in addition to the Alberta registry agent fee;
- Installation Fee – for information on installation fees contact Smart Start Canada:
- Monthly device rental (approx. $98/month);
- Registry and reinstatement fees;
- Education program fees.
Steps to Get Started
- Complete your required suspension period as indicated on your Order of Driving Prohibition for Criminal Code convictions (or minimum portion) or you have 30 days or less remaining on your 90-day suspension for an IRS: FAIL
- Finish your education program;
- Purchase your application at a registry then email, fax or mail (information is provided where to submit to is on the application);
- Get approval for the program;
- Contact Smart Start Canada to book your installation:
- Have the device installed;
- Obtain a restricted driver’s licence from a registry.
Important Conditions
While in the program:
- You may only drive vehicles equipped with the ignition interlock device;
- All breath tests must be alcohol-free;
- Violations can result in extended program time or additional penalties.
Exemptions
Medical exemptions may be available in rare cases where a person cannot physically use the device. Supporting medical documentation is required, and approval is not guaranteed.
Why the Program Matters
The Ignition Interlock Program:
- Helps prevent impaired driving;
- Supports behaviour change;
- Allows individuals to safely return to driving.