After an impaired driving conviction, Nova Scotia revokes your licence for at least a year. The Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program can let some drivers return to the road sooner, with a conditional “interlock” licence.
What an interlock is
An ignition interlock is a breath-testing device wired to your vehicle’s ignition. You must blow a clean sample before the vehicle will start, and the device asks for more samples while you drive.
Who it is for
The program covers drivers who are prohibited from driving after an alcohol-related Criminal Code conviction, and drivers the Registrar of Motor Vehicles requires to take part. Acceptance is not automatic. You must:
- meet the program’s eligibility conditions;
- install an approved interlock device;
- complete the Addiction Services requirements: education, a risk assessment, a substance use evaluation and counselling; and
- otherwise qualify for a driver’s licence.
Costs
You pay the program fees and the costs of the device. Ask the Registry of Motor Vehicles and the interlock provider for current amounts before you apply.
Who runs it
The Registry of Motor Vehicles runs the program, and Addiction Services, operated by the provincial health authority, provides the mandatory counselling.
Talk to a lawyer first
How your criminal case ends affects when and whether you can join the program. A Nova Scotia impaired driving lawyer can explain the timing. See also impaired driving charges and the guide to Nova Scotia impaired driving laws.
Frequently asked questions
Possibly. The Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program can allow eligible drivers to drive with a conditional interlock licence during part of the revocation.
No. Acceptance is not automatic, and you must meet eligibility conditions and complete Addiction Services requirements.
The driver pays the program fees and device costs.
Education, a risk assessment, a substance use evaluation and counselling.
Find a Nova Scotia impaired driving lawyer →
This article is general information about Nova Scotia and Canadian impaired driving law as of October 2026. It is not legal advice. Penalties, fees and procedures can change; confirm details with Access Nova Scotia or a lawyer.
Sources: Service Nova Scotia, Registry of Motor Vehicles – Alcohol and Driving; Government of Nova Scotia, Tougher penalties for impaired driving come into effect; Legal Information Society of Nova Scotia, Alcohol or drug impaired driving and Alcohol Ignition Interlock Program; Department of Justice Canada, Impaired driving laws.
