The legal penalties for impaired driving in Saskatchewan are severe — and they don't end when you leave the courtroom. Know the full picture.
Note: The following is provided for educational purposes. Laws change — always consult SGI or a legal professional for current and complete information. Resources like the Ignition Interlock Brochure and Drugs, Alcohol and the Law Brochure are available through the SADD Saskatchewan Chapter Manual.
Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is measured as grams of alcohol per 100 mL of blood. Saskatchewan law provides for escalating consequences:
| BAC Level | Consequence |
|---|---|
| .00 — Novice & Young Drivers | Zero tolerance for new drivers (GDL) and drivers under 22. Any measurable BAC = immediate 30-day licence suspension. |
| .04–.079 — Warning Range | Immediate 3-day roadside suspension (first occurrence), vehicle impoundment, reinstatement fees. |
| .08+ — Criminal Offence | Criminal Code impaired driving charge. Immediate licence suspension, potential jail time, mandatory fines, criminal record. |
| Any Level — Drugs | Drug-impaired driving carries the same criminal consequences as alcohol impairment at .08+ |
A first-offence criminal impaired driving conviction carries consequences that last years:
A permanent criminal record affects employment, travel, and professional licensing for life.
Mandatory minimum 1-year licence suspension (or more for repeat offences).
Required use of an ignition interlock device upon licence reinstatement — at your expense.
Minimum $1,000 fine plus court costs, licence reinstatement fees, and interlock costs.
Dramatically higher insurance premiums for years following a conviction.
A criminal record can prevent travel to the USA and other countries.
Many employers will not hire individuals with impaired driving convictions.
Detailed information about Saskatchewan's Ignition Interlock Program — requirements, costs, and how it works. Available in your Chapter Manual.
A comprehensive brochure covering Saskatchewan law regarding drugs and alcohol as they relate to impaired driving. Available in your Chapter Manual.
SGI Saskatchewan provides detailed and current information about impaired driving laws, consequences, and road safety programs at sgi.sk.ca.
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