How much does a DUI really cost in Alberta? Far more than the fine. Between the roadside penalty, towing, the Planning Ahead course, an ignition interlock, a lawyer and years of higher insurance, a single impaired driving charge can cost more than a used car. And the money is only part of it.
Use our free calculator below to add up what a DUI could cost you in Alberta. Every number is editable, so you can plug in your own bills as they come in.
DUI cost calculator: Alberta
Pick your situation. Every amount below can be changed, so type in your real bills as they come in.
| Criminal Code minimum fineSet by your blood alcohol reading. Judges can order more. | |
| Victim fine surcharge (30%)Added to the fine unless the judge waives it. | |
| Ignition interlockInstallation, monthly fees and removal. | |
| Lawyer (rough estimate)Ask for a quote. Many lawyers offer a free first consultation. | |
| Higher insuranceExtra premium over the years you choose. |
An estimate for a first offence, not a quote. Fees change, and your situation may add or remove costs.
The costs of a DUI in Alberta, line by line
1. Criminal Code fines
Impaired driving is a federal crime, so the minimum fines are the same across Canada:
| Situation (first offence) | Minimum fine |
| Impaired, or blood alcohol 0.08 to 0.119 | $1,000 |
| Blood alcohol 0.12 to 0.159 | $1,500 |
| Blood alcohol 0.16 or higher | $2,000 |
| Refusing a breath or blood demand | $2,000 |
A victim fine surcharge is usually added. A second offence brings at least 30 days in jail, and a third at least 120 days.
2. Provincial penalties and fees in Alberta
Alberta handles most impaired driving at the roadside through Immediate Roadside Sanctions (IRS). A first IRS FAIL (0.08+, failing or refusing a test, or a failed drug evaluation) means 90 days of no driving, then a 12-month suspension unless you join the ignition interlock program, a 30-day vehicle seizure, a $1,000 penalty plus the 20% victim fine surcharge, and the Planning Ahead course.
Police can still lay criminal charges as well, especially when someone is hurt or it is not a first offence. If you are convicted in court, the Criminal Code fines in this calculator apply on top. Untick the criminal conviction box if yours was handled only through IRS.
| IRS FAIL penalty (plus 20% victim fine surcharge) | $1,200 |
| 30-day vehicle seizure: towing and storage | Varies |
| Planning Ahead course | Varies |
3. Ignition interlock
To drive again before your prohibition ends, you will usually need an ignition interlock in your vehicle. Optional after the first 90 days, so you can drive during the 12-month suspension. Estimate only; ask the provider. You pay to have it installed, a monthly fee, regular calibration visits and removal at the end. Ask the approved provider for every fee in writing before you sign.
4. Lawyer’s fees
Legal fees depend on the lawyer, the evidence and whether your case goes to trial. A quick guilty plea costs less than a full trial, but a good impaired driving lawyer can find problems with the roadside test, the breath readings or your Charter rights that lead to a better result. That can save you thousands on everything else on this page. Find an impaired driving lawyer in Alberta, and ask about a free first consultation.
5. Car insurance
Alberta car insurance is private. An IRS FAIL or conviction usually means a big jump or a move to a high-risk insurer, so compare quotes through a broker. For many people this is the biggest cost of all, because it lasts for years.
6. Hidden costs nobody warns you about
- Getting around: taxis, rides and transit while you cannot drive.
- Lost income: missed shifts for court dates, appointments and programs, or a job that needs a licence.
- Travel: a criminal record can get you turned away at the US border.
- A second offence: the costs and jail time climb fast if it happens again.
How to keep the cost down
- Talk to a lawyer early. Deadlines to challenge a roadside suspension can be short.
- Follow every condition. Missing a court date or driving while suspended adds new charges and fines.
- Get the program done quickly. Your licence will not come back until the Planning Ahead course is finished.
- Shop for insurance. Rates for high-risk drivers vary a lot from one company to the next.
- Deal with the drinking or drug use. It protects your family, your licence and your wallet. See our free guide to treatment in Alberta.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a first DUI cost in Alberta?
Most people pay many thousands of dollars once fines, provincial penalties, the Planning Ahead course, the ignition interlock, a lawyer and higher insurance are added up. Use the calculator on this page with your own numbers for an estimate.
What is the minimum fine for impaired driving in Canada?
Under the Criminal Code, the minimum fine for a first offence is $1,000. It rises to $1,500 for a blood alcohol reading of 0.12 to 0.159, and $2,000 for 0.16 or higher or for refusing to provide a sample. A victim fine surcharge is usually added.
How much does an ignition interlock cost?
Expect an installation fee, a monthly lease and monitoring fee, and a removal fee. Over a year the total usually runs into the thousands, so ask the approved provider for every fee in writing.
Is hiring a DUI lawyer worth the cost?
Often, yes. A conviction brings years of costs, from the fine and interlock to higher insurance. If a lawyer can get the charge withdrawn, reduced or beaten, the savings can be far larger than the legal fee. Many lawyers offer a free first consultation.
Does a DUI cost more than money?
Yes. A criminal record can affect your job, travel to the United States and your family life. Losing your licence puts pressure on everyone who depends on you to get to work, school and appointments.
The human impact: a DUI costs the whole family
The calculator shows dollars. It cannot show what a DUI does to the people who love you. When one person loses their licence, the whole family carries the load.
There is a way through this. Families that come out stronger usually do three things: they get good legal advice early, they talk openly about what happened, and they get help for the drinking or drug use behind it. Staying in treatment, spending time with people who support your recovery and going to support meetings all help. Family members can find support too, through groups like Al-Anon and Alateen.
Start with our free treatment and recovery guide for Alberta, and talk to a local impaired driving lawyer about your case.
Sources: Criminal Code of Canada, s. 320.19; Alberta: Impaired driving penalties; Alberta: Ignition interlock program (checked November 9, 2026). Lawyer, interlock and insurance amounts are rough estimates. This is general information, not legal advice. Fees change, so confirm with the agency or provider.
