Driving Under Suspension in Ontario
Avoid jail time, extended suspensions, and massive fines. Our legal team defends Ontario drivers facing suspension charges—so you don’t have to go to court alone.
Why You Might Be Facing a Suspension
Driving while under suspension is one of the most serious Highway Traffic Act offences. At NG Legal, NG Legal have successfully defended against clients for driving while under suspension.
If convicted, your licence will automatically be suspended for six months, you could face fines up to $25,000, and if you are able to get insured again your premiums could be thousands more per year.
There are several reasons why you could be facing suspension:
- Unpaid fines
- Medical license suspensions
- Administrative errors
- Impaired driving convictions
- Missed court appearances
Moreover, if you’re caught speeding in an area with workers present, the set fines are double. The legal implications for most speeding convictions will last for 3 years on your record.
Penalty for Driving With a Suspended License
At the time of a first conviction for driving while suspended, the penalties are:
- A fine not less than $1,000 and not more than $5,000 (**Note: If your licence is suspended from certain convictions under the Criminal Code of Canada, the fine is not less than $5,000 and not more than $25,000**)
- A mandatory six month suspension of your driver’s licence
- A possible term of imprisonment of not more than 6 months
For a second conviction the penalties are:
- A fine of not less than $2,000 and not more than $5,000 (**Note: For subsequent offences related to the Criminal Code of Canada the fine is not less than $10,000 and not more than $50,000**)
- A mandatory six month suspension of your driver’s licence
- A possible term of imprisonment of no more than six months
- Driving while suspended could now cost you more than your licence
As of December 1st, 2010, police have more tools to get suspended and impaired drivers off the road. This change also means added enforcement against people who have had their driver’s licences suspended for consistently not paying family support.
Vehicle Impoundment
The seven-day vehicle impoundment applies to drivers whose licences are suspended for:
- Driving while under certain Highway Traffic Act licence suspensions including non-payment of family support
- Driving with a blood alcohol concentration over .08 (beyond the legal limit) or for failing/refusing to provide a breath sample
- Driving without an ignition interlock device when one is required
For more information on the Seven-Day Vehicle Impoundment program, visit: http://news.ontario.ca/mto/en/2010/11/7-day-vehicle-impoundment.html
After being convicted of driving while suspended, it is difficult to ever find insurance again. If you are convicted and do manage to get insured after being charged with driving under suspension, your premiums will likely be thousands of dollars more per year. Moreover, this offence will remain on your record for three years and will likely effect your ability to obtain any sort of commercial licensing.
NG Legal’s legal representatives have the ability to challenge driving under suspension offences in court, and NG Legal will strive to eliminate your charge entirely. If NG Legal are unsuccessful in having your charges withdrawn, NG Legal will work tirelessly to ensure and negotiate with the prosecutor an amicable solution for all parties. In the most unlikely scenario that you may be facing jail time, NG Legal will work to protect you and secure your freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for driving while suspended in Ontario?
For a first conviction, penalties include a fine between $1,000 and $5,000 (or up to $25,000 for Criminal Code-related suspensions), a mandatory six-month licence suspension, and possible up to six months imprisonment. Second convictions carry even higher fines and similar suspensions.
Why might my licence be suspended?
Common reasons include unpaid fines, medical suspensions, administrative errors, impaired driving convictions, and missed court appearances. Police also enforce harsher penalties for speeding in construction zones and other serious offences.
What is the Seven-Day Vehicle Impoundment program?
Drivers caught driving while suspended for specific reasons, such as impaired driving or non-payment of family support, may have their vehicle impounded for seven days as part of enhanced enforcement measures.
How can NG Legal help if I’m charged with driving under suspension?
NG Legal’s experienced representatives review your case, challenge charges in court, negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or withdraw charges, and work to protect your freedom and driving record—even in cases facing potential jail time.
How will a driving-under-suspension conviction affect my insurance?
It’s very difficult to get insurance after a conviction, and if you do, premiums can increase by thousands of dollars per year. The conviction remains on your driving record for three years and can impact your ability to obtain commercial licences.
Other Traffic Tickets We Can Help With
Not facing this exact charge? We also defend clients against a wide range of traffic offences in Ontario:
Ready to Fight Your Ticket?
Don’t let a traffic charge impact your record or insurance. NG Legal makes it easy—with virtual consultations, no court visits, and proven results. Let’s start your defence today.
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