Learn about the Driver Control Board

What is the Driver Control Board?

The Driver Control Board is a quasi-judicial panel. The panel determines if people who are referred to them are fit to drive and whether they pose a risk to public safety. If the registrar of motor vehicles suspends, disqualifies or refuses to issue a licence, individuals can appeal or ask the Driver Control Board to review the decision.

Reasons for referral

You may be referred to the Driver Control Board by a judge or the registrar of Motor Vehicles for several reasons including:

• Being charged with impaired driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of greater than 0.16 or refusing to provide a breath or blood sample.
• Violating the 0 tolerance for alcohol or drugs condition of your graduated driver's licence (GDL).
• Receiving a second demerit point suspension.
• Receiving a second driving disqualification.
• Being referred due to a medical condition.

What to expect after being referred

After being referred, you’ll receive a registered letter from the Driver Control Board. This letter, sent to the same address on your driver’s licence, will let you know when you’ll meet with the board. The board will review your driving information and meet with you to gather all necessary information.

Based on their review, the board may:

• suspend your licence temporarily or indefinitely;
• require you to complete certain education or treatment to keep your licence; and
• set rules for how the licence can be used, such as participating in the Ignition Interlock Program or completing remedial programs.

These conditions are separate from any court orders for the same offence and must be completed along with any other legal requirements.

If you have received a driving prohibition from a judge, you must meet the requirements set by:

• the Driver Control Board;
• the court; and
• the Motor Vehicles Office before your licence can be reinstated.

Key factors considered in your review

When reviewing your case, the board may consider your:

• collision history;
• conviction record;
• driving history;
• attitude;
• driving skills and knowledge;
• driving disabilities; and
• other relevant factors that may impact your fitness to drive.

Representation options

You can meet with the board yourself or have a lawyer or agent represent you.