Ignition Interlock Program

When a person is suspended for alcohol impaired driving for 12 months or more, they are required to participate in the ignition interlock program in order to have their licence reinstated.

An ignition interlock device prevents a driver from starting or driving a vehicle when under the influence of alcohol. Eligible drivers will have interlock devices installed in their vehicles. The driver will be issued a restricted driver’s licence, which allows the individual to operate only vehicles equipped with an alcohol ignition interlock device. Participants are responsible for covering the cost of the program.

The device is a mechanism similar to a breathalyzer and is installed in a vehicle's dashboard. Before the vehicle can be started, the driver must blow and hum into the device. If the result is over a programmed blood alcohol concentration, the vehicle will not start.

At random times after the engine has been started, the device will require another breath sample. The purpose of this is to prevent a friend from breathing and humming into the device, enabling the intoxicated person to get behind the wheel and drive away. If the breath sample isn't provided, or the sample exceeds the ignition interlock's preset blood alcohol level, the device will log the event, warn the driver and then start up an alarm (e.g., lights flashing, horn honking, etc.) until the ignition is turned off. A common misconception is that interlock devices will turn off the engine if alcohol is detected. This could create an unsafe driving situation and expose interlock manufacturers to considerable liability. 

Drivers with a 30-day short-term licence suspension or three-month administrative licence suspension for Criminal Code offences may be eligible to enroll in the program.

The Registrar of Motor Vehicles will have authority to extend the time in program and grant exemptions, including for medical reasons.

In order to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program:

• you have had your licence suspended for alcohol impaired driving or refusing to comply with a demand
• you have served the minimum mandatory prohibition period
• you have served all other suspensions, paid all outstanding fees and completed any required impaired driver re-education courses
• you have completed all other reinstatement requirements and conditions
• you are not participating in the Graduated Driver Licence Program
• the vehicle being installed with the interlock device has a valid inspection, registration and insurance
• the participant is the registered owner of the vehicle or has written permission from the registered owner to install the device

Participants cover the cost of the program.

The monthly monitoring fee is $70 per device plus applicable taxes. There may be additional costs for heavy trucks or specialized vehicles.

The installation fee is dependent on the make and model of the vehicle. Fees will be determined by the installer. All costs are paid to the service provider by program participants on a user pay basis.

Application for Ignition Interlock Program (PDF 495 KB)