Nearly 1,000 new drivers were suspended in 2023 for exceeding provincial limits for both drugs and alcohol.  

New drivers make up nine percent of licensed drivers in Saskatchewan. However, they accounted for over 33 percent of impaired driving administrative suspensions in 2023 according to a new release from SGI.  New drivers are classified as anyone in the graduated driver licensing program or who is 21 years of age or younger.

Police can perform roadside tests for drugs and alcohol and a positive result for either means a new driver will lose their license for a minimum of 60 days. The vehicle they are driving will also immediately be impounded for three days. 

“This isn’t about spoiling anyone’s good time; it’s about reminding all drivers, including new ones, that you've always got options to find a safe ride home,” said JP Cullen, Chief Operating Officer of the Auto Fund, “Choosing not to drive impaired will keep you safe and keep you out of trouble.”  

Experienced drivers cannot legally drive with a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) above .04. All drivers, regardless of experience, are subject to Saskatchewan's zero tolerance laws for drug-impaired driving.  

The administrative roadside suspension also means the driver must attend a mandatory impaired driver education course. They will also receive four demerits under the Safe Driver Recognition Program. The consequences increase for repeat offenders.