A DUI in Alberta can bring two sets of penalties: administrative penalties under Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanctions, which start immediately, and criminal penalties if you are charged and convicted under the Criminal Code.
Licence suspensions
- IRS 24-hour: 24 hours.
- IRS WARN: 3 days (first), 15 days (second), 30 days (third).
- IRS FAIL: 90 days with no driving, followed by 12 months (first), 36 months (second) or a lifetime suspension (third and later).
- IRS ZERO: Novice: 30 days.
Vehicle seizures
- IRS WARN: 3 days (first), 7 days (second and third).
- IRS FAIL: 30 days.
- IRS ZERO: Novice: 7 days.
Fines
- IRS WARN: $300, $600, then $1,200.
- IRS FAIL: $1,000 (first), $2,000 (second and later).
- IRS ZERO: Novice: $200.
Every fine carries a 20% victim fine surcharge.
Ignition interlock
After an IRS FAIL, you cannot drive for 90 days. For the rest of the suspension term you can drive only by joining Alberta’s IRS FAIL Ignition Interlock Program with a device installed: 12 months for a first occurrence, 36 months for a second, and lifetime for a third or later. You must apply, complete the required remedial education, and have the device installed before you get a restricted licence.
Criminal Code penalties
If you are convicted of a criminal impaired driving offence, federal minimum penalties include a $1,000 fine for a first offence (higher at elevated blood alcohol levels or for refusal), 30 days’ jail for a second offence and 120 days for a third. Courts also impose driving prohibitions. A conviction also means a criminal record.
Reviews
You have 7 days to apply to SafeRoads Alberta to review an IRS penalty. The penalty stays in effect while the review happens. An Alberta DUI lawyer can tell you whether a review or a court defence makes sense in your case.
Frequently asked questions
30 days.
$1,000 plus a 20% victim fine surcharge. A second or later IRS FAIL carries a $2,000 fine plus the surcharge.
It is the only way to drive during the suspension that follows the first 90 days. If you choose not to participate, your licence stays suspended for the full term.
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This article is general information about Alberta and Canadian impaired driving law as of October 2026. It is not legal advice. Penalties and procedures can change; speak with a lawyer about your situation.
Sources: Government of Alberta, Impaired driving penalties; Government of Alberta, IRS FAIL Ignition Interlock Program; Department of Justice Canada, Impaired driving laws.
