DUI & Impaired Driving in Alberta
In Alberta, an impaired-driving incident can lead to an Immediate Roadside Sanction (IRS), a criminal charge, or both. They are separate processes, with different consequences and procedures.
7 days
A standard SafeRoads review generally must be requested within 7 days of the date on your Notice of Administrative Penalty.
Past 7 days? A late review may still be possible in some circumstances. Learn more
What is an Immediate Roadside Sanction?
An IRS is an administrative penalty issued under Alberta’s impaired-driving system. It is not a criminal conviction — but its consequences can be serious, and they generally grow with the type of sanction and any previous history.
Which sanction did you receive?
The sanction type is printed on your notice. It shapes the consequences and the review options.
IRS FAIL
For more serious impaired-driving circumstances. Can carry significant licence and vehicle consequences.
IRS WARN
A lower-level alcohol-related sanction. Consequences increase with each previous occurrence.
IRS ZERO
Applies to drivers under zero-tolerance conditions, including certain novice and commercial drivers.
24-Hour
A temporary suspension where an officer suspects alcohol, drugs or another condition is affecting safe driving.
How we can help
IRS Review & Appeal
Help understanding and requesting a SafeRoads review of your Immediate Roadside Sanction.
Late Review Assistance
Missed the 7-day window? We help you find out whether a late review may be available.
Vehicle Seizure Review
Understand your vehicle seizure and the review process available through SafeRoads.
Ignition Interlock Guidance
Learn how the interlock program works and when it may apply to you.
How an IRS review works
- 1
Consultation
We go over your notice, the sanction type and your deadline.
- 2
Review requested
The review is requested through SafeRoads Alberta within the deadline.
- 3
Submissions prepared
Disclosure is reviewed and written submissions are prepared and filed.
- 4
Decision issued
An adjudicator decides the review, and we explain what the result means.
IRS agent or impaired-driving lawyer?
An IRS and a criminal charge run on separate tracks. Here’s how they differ — and who helps with each.
| IRS (administrative) | Criminal impaired charge | |
|---|---|---|
| Where it’s decided | SafeRoads Alberta review | Criminal court |
| What’s at stake | Licence, vehicle, fines, programs, interlock | Criminal record and court-imposed penalties |
| Key deadline | Generally 7 days to request a review | Set by the court process |
| Who can help | DUI Specialist | A qualified criminal / impaired-driving lawyer |
Serving drivers across Alberta
- Edmonton
- Calgary
- Fort McMurray
- Grande Prairie
- Medicine Hat
- Lac La Biche
Questions about your IRS
Is an IRS a criminal charge?
No. An IRS is an administrative penalty. A criminal impaired-driving charge is a separate process that goes through the courts — you could face one, the other, or both.
Can I drive while my review is underway?
Not automatically. Requesting a review does not by itself cancel your suspension. Confirm your licence status before driving.
What happens to my vehicle?
Some sanctions include a vehicle seizure. Seizures have their own review process through SafeRoads Alberta, which we can help you understand.
What if I missed the 7 days?
A late review may be available in certain circumstances. Eligibility depends on your situation, so contact us as soon as you can.
Have you received an IRS?
Time can matter. Send us your notice and we’ll explain your options.