How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Alberta? — Kolinsky Law

 

If you’ve been charged with a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or impaired driving in Alberta, one of your biggest concerns is likely: How long will this stay on my record? The answer affects your driver’s license, employment, insurance rates, and travel opportunities.

At Kolinsky Law, our experienced DUI Lawyers in Edmonton help clients navigate these charges and minimise long-term consequences. Below, we break down everything you need to know in an easy-to-read, point-by-point format.

1. How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Criminal Record in Canada?

• A DUI conviction stays on your criminal record permanently unless you take legal action.
• Unlike some offences, DUIs do not automatically expire from the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database.
• The only way to remove it is through a record suspension (formerly called a pardon).

Can You Get a Pardon for a DUI in Alberta?

• Yes, but you must wait at least 5 years (for summary convictions) or 10 years (for indictable offences) after completing your sentence.
• You must also demonstrate good conduct and meet all court-ordered conditions.
• A DUI Lawyer in Edmonton can help you apply for a record suspension.

2. How Long Does a DUI Affect Your Driving Record in Alberta?

Alberta’s Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) keeps track of impaired driving offences separately from criminal records.

• First DUI Offence: Stays on your Alberta driving record for 10 years.
• Second DUI Offence: Remains for 10 years from the date of conviction.
• Third+ Offences: Can lead to lifetime driving bans in severe cases.

Does a DUI Affect Your License & Insurance?

License Suspension:

• 1st offence: 1-year suspension (minimum).
• 2nd offence: 3-year suspension.
• 3rd offence: 5-year suspension + mandatory Ignition Interlock Program.

Insurance Impact:

• Insurers see DUIs as high-risk, leading to skyrocketing premiums (3x-5x higher).
• Some providers may refuse coverage altogether.

3. Can You Travel to the U.S. with a DUI?

• The U.S. border (CBP) has strict policies — they can deny entry to Canadians with DUIs.
• Even old convictions can cause issues unless you apply for a U.S. Entry Waiver.
• An Impaired Driving Lawyer in Edmonton can advise on waivers and border-crossing strategies.

4. How to Remove or Reduce a DUI’s Impact

Legal Strategies to Fight a DUI Charge

• Challenge the Traffic Stop: Was it lawful?
• Dispute Breathalyser Accuracy: Calibration errors can invalidate results.
• Question Police Procedure: Mistakes in paperwork or testing protocols.
• Negotiate a Plea Deal: Sometimes, charges can be reduced to “careless driving” (less severe).

Early Resolution & Record Suspension

• Hiring the Best Impaired Driving Lawyer in Edmonton can help:
• Get charges dropped or reduced.
• Apply for a record suspension sooner.
• Minimise employment & travel disruptions.

5. Practical Steps After a DUI Charge in Edmonton

If you’ve been charged, follow these steps:

1. Consult a DUI Lawyer in Edmonton immediately — Early legal advice is critical.
2. Document everything — Police reports, witness statements, and your own account.
3. Attend all court dates — Missing one can lead to additional penalties.
4. Complete required programs — Such as the Impaired Driving Course (may reduce penalties).
5. Consider an Ignition Interlock Device — Helps regain driving privileges faster.

6. Why Hiring an Experienced DUI Lawyer in Edmonton Matters

• Expertise in Alberta’s DUI laws — Every case is different; a skilled lawyer can find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• Better Outcomes — Reduced charges, shorter suspensions, or even case dismissal.
• Long-Term Protection — Helps prevent career, travel, and financial damage.

At Kolinsky Law, our Best Lawyer for DUI Charges in Edmonton fight aggressively for clients facing DUI charges. Contact us today for a free case review.