Steps to Reinstate Your Licence After a DUI in Ontario

Losing your driver’s licence after a DUI can have a major impact on your daily life. It may affect your ability to work, care for your family, and meet basic responsibilities. In Ontario, getting your licence back involves more than just waiting for the suspension to end. You must complete specific steps, meet legal requirements, and follow all conditions carefully.

At Affordable Defence, criminal defence lawyers Fady Mansour and Solomon Friedman have helped many clients through this process. Their experience with DUI law in Ontario means you will have knowledgeable support as you work to regain your driving privileges.

This guide explains the key steps to reinstate your licence after a DUI in Ontario and helps you prepare for what lies ahead.

Obtaining a licence after a DUI suspension in Ontario involves specific steps. When you face a DUI charge, your licence may be suspended immediately, affecting your ability to drive legally. Understanding these implications is crucial for reinstatement.

Consequences of a DUI in Ontario

1. Immediate Suspension: Your licence gets suspended upon arrest.
2. Mandatory Programs: You must complete an educational program related to impaired driving.
3. Fines and Fees: There’s typically a fine associated with your DUI conviction, along with fees for reinstatement.

Steps to Reinstate Your Licence

1. Complete Penalties: First, ensure you’ve met all penalties, including any jail time or probation.
2. Educational Course: Enroll in and complete an approved rehabilitation program.
3. Pay Fees: Pay all outstanding fines and the reinstatement fee to Service Ontario.
4. Request Reinstatement: Once you’ve completed all requirements, submit a request to Service Ontario for reinstatement of your licence.

Monitoring Your Progress

Monitor the completion of each step. Keeping records of your rehabilitation program and payment confirmations streamlines the reinstatement process. If needed, seek assistance from legal professionals to ensure compliance with all requirements.

Successfully navigating these steps allows you to reinstate your licence in Ontario after suspension due to a DUI, restoring your driving privileges.

Reinstating your licence in Ontario after a DUI-related suspension involves several critical steps. Follow these carefully to ensure a smooth process.

Ensure any associated fines are paid

Ensure you pay any outstanding fines related to your DUI before attempting to reinstate your licence in Ontario.

Complete all required programs

Complete required programs, which can be time-consuming yet manageable within the suspension period. For alcohol- or drug-related offences like impaired driving, the Back on Track program is necessary. Enrollment costs $894, which you must cover. This program may take up to 11 months and includes education, assessment, and a group treatment workshop, followed by a follow-up interview after six months.

Individuals convicted of DUI in Ontario may also need to complete an ignition interlock program post-suspension for licence reinstatement. This program mandates driving vehicles equipped with an approved ignition interlock system, preventing the vehicle from starting if you blow over a certain limit (20 mg or less of alcohol per 100 ml of blood). The duration ranges from one to six years, based on prior offences, with costs of approximately $1,500 to $2,000 annually.

Present the right documentation

Present the right documentation to reinstate your licence online or at a ServiceOntario centre. Provide proof that your suspension has been lifted, such as a Notice of Suspension letter, a medical letter, or an affidavit.

Pay the reinstatement fee

Pay the reinstatement fee, which is currently $281, subject to changes by Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation.

Reapply for your driver’s licence and take tests (if necessary)

Reapply for your driver’s licence and take necessary tests according to your suspension terms.

Obtain insurance

Obtain insurance to drive legally in Ontario, which requires at least $200,000 in third-party liability coverage. This mandatory car insurance should be active if you plan to drive immediately after your licence is reinstated.

You may need to take specific tests before you can reinstate your licence in Ontario after suspension. The requirements depend on the reason for the suspension.

1. Alcohol or Drug-Related Offenses: If your suspension resulted from a DUI, completing the Back on Track program is essential. The program includes assessments and educational components, preparing you for a possible road test.
2. Road Test: If your licence has been suspended for an extended period, you might need to pass a road test to ensure your driving skills are current. This test assesses your ability to operate a vehicle safely.
3. Knowledge Test: If your licence has been suspended for more than 12 months, you may need to take a knowledge test. This test evaluates your understanding of Canadian driving laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
4. Ignition Interlock Program: Participating in an ignition interlock program also requires you to complete a series of tests and checks before reinstatement. This program includes regular breath tests, ensuring you meet all requirements before applying for reinstatement.

Understanding these requirements can streamline the process of reinstating your licence in Ontario. Prepare for any necessary tests by reviewing the relevant materials and regulations from ServiceOntario.

Reinstating your driver’s licence after a DUI in Ontario can be a complex and stressful process, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Understanding the steps involved, staying organized, and following the legal requirements are essential to getting back on the road legally and safely.

At Affordable Defence, we provide clear, knowledgeable guidance throughout the reinstatement process. Our team offers free case evaluations and can help you avoid common mistakes while meeting all required conditions.

If you’ve had your licence suspended due to impaired driving, take the first step by contacting us today. You can reach us online or call 613-223-4089 to speak directly with a member of our legal team.