BC DUI Charges and Driving Prohibitions: What to Expect

A criminal charge and a provincial driving prohibition are different. Start with the paperwork you received, check the applicable process promptly, and find a BC lawyer if you need advice.

Need help with a notice or charge?

Browse recorded Criminal Law listings. Ask the lawyer directly whether they handle your notice or charge and can help in time.

Find a criminal defence lawyer by city

Start with the documents you received

Keep the notice or court paperwork and record when it was served. Check what it is called, the listed dates and any instructions about driving or appearing in court. A single incident may involve more than one process; do not assume one review addresses every notice or court obligation.

Criminal charge, IRP or ADP?

  • Criminal charge: impaired operation is dealt with under the federal Criminal Code. A charge is not a conviction. The applicable process and potential consequences depend on the specific allegation and facts.
  • Immediate Roadside Prohibition (IRP): a provincial driving prohibition under section 215.41 of BC’s Motor Vehicle Act. RoadSafetyBC describes multiple durations and consequences depending on the notice.
  • Administrative Driving Prohibition (ADP): a separate 90-day provincial prohibition under section 94.1 of BC’s Motor Vehicle Act. It is not another name for an IRP or a criminal conviction.

Check the review process promptly

For a review of a 3-, 7-, 30- or 90-day driving prohibition, including a 90-day ADP, RoadSafetyBC says to apply, pay the review fee in full and book a review within seven days of service. This is not a criminal court deadline. Check the official steps and seek qualified help promptly if unsure which process applies.

Check the official review steps

What to ask a lawyer

  • Do you handle the exact notice or charge I received, and can you assess the dates promptly?
  • Can you advise on the provincial review, the criminal matter, or both?
  • What is included in the fee for the first consultation or each separate stage?

Use the directory to find recorded Criminal Law listings. Ask the lawyer directly about experience with your specific matter and availability. Do not put names, notice numbers or case details into the finder.

Questions and answers

Is a driving prohibition the same as a criminal conviction?

No. A BC provincial driving prohibition is distinct from a criminal conviction. If you received a notice and court paperwork, check both processes separately.

Where do I check how to apply for a prohibition review?

Use RoadSafetyBC’s official driving prohibition review instructions below. Verify the notice type, service date and application steps before relying on a deadline.

This guide provides general information, not legal advice. Consult a qualified BC lawyer for advice about your situation.

Official sources