Impaired driving is a federal crime, so the core penalties are the same across Canada. The Yukon adds its own licensing consequences on top.
Criminal Code minimum penalties (s. 320.19)
| Situation | Minimum penalty, first offence |
|---|---|
| Impaired or over 80 (80–119 mg) | $1,000 fine |
| Blood alcohol 120–159 mg | $1,500 fine |
| Blood alcohol 160 mg or more | $2,000 fine |
| Refusing a breath or blood demand | $2,000 fine |
| Second offence | 30 days in jail |
| Third or later offence | 120 days in jail |
Maximums: up to 2 years less a day on summary conviction, or up to 10 years if the Crown proceeds by indictment.
Driving prohibition
A conviction carries a mandatory driving prohibition. For a first offence that’s a minimum of 1 year and up to 3 years. An ignition interlock program can shorten the time you’re fully off the road (see Yukon impoundment and interlock rules).
Yukon licence consequences
- A 90-day roadside licence suspension and a vehicle impoundment of at least 30 days (doubled if your BAC was over 160 mg)
- An automatic Yukon licence disqualification on conviction: 1 year for a first offence, 3 years for a second within five years
- A remedial driving program, and an ignition interlock (minimum 6 months for a first offence) if you return to driving early
Hidden costs
Insurance increases, travel restrictions (US entry can be refused with a DUI record), employment impacts for professional drivers, and the cost of interlock.
Related: Yukon impaired driving laws: complete guide · Yukon DUI penalties: impoundment & interlock
