Choosing to drive after drinking may be a sign of an alcohol abuse or addiction problem. If your driver's licence is suspended due to Criminal Code convictions, addiction screening and either an education or recovery program is mandatory.
You cannot simply wait until your suspension term is over to get your licence back. If you don't complete addiction screening and an education or recovery program, your driver's licence will remain suspended indefinitely.
The screening is conducted by a qualified alcohol and drug services counsellor who will:
- screen for chemical dependency
- recommend an education or recovery program
You'll be advised by mail who to contact to arrange an appointment.
Education program
If you're screened as not alcohol and/or drug dependent, you'll be referred to an education program, such as:
- a Driving Without Impairment course
- Driver Improvement training
Recovery program
If you're screened as alcohol and/or drug dependent, you'll be referred to a recovery program.
A recovery program is an individualized plan, recommended by an addiction counsellor. It may include:
- weekly counseling
- assignment to a treatment centre
- participation in community self-help groups
- counselling from other agencies
A recovery program is complete when you're considered to be low risk to repeat alcohol/drug-related problem behaviour. The program may take up to 6 months to complete.
