In Brampton, Stream A of the Ignition Interlock Program allows you to reduce your 1-year driving suspension to just 3 months. To qualify, you must plead guilty to the Over 80 charge within 90 days, register for the Back on Track program ($634 CAD), and install an approved interlock device at your own expense.
Being convicted of an Over 80 or impaired driving charge in Ontario carries a mandatory minimum 1-year driver’s licence suspension under the federal Criminal Code. For most residents in Brampton, losing the ability to drive for a full year can mean losing employment and severe hardship. Fortunately, the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO) offers a reduced suspension program known as Stream A.
Stream A allows eligible drivers to get back behind the wheel after serving only 3 months of their 1-year suspension, provided they install an Ignition Interlock device in their vehicle. This device requires you to provide a breath sample free of alcohol before the engine will start. While the program offers a lifeline, the requirements are strict, the timelines are incredibly tight, and the financial costs are substantial.
Step-by-Step Process for Stream A in Ontario
Qualifying for Stream A is not automatic. It requires careful coordination between your criminal court proceedings in Brampton and the provincial MTO regulations. Here is what you generally must do.
Step 1: Resolve Your Case Quickly (Plead Guilty)
The most critical requirement for Stream A is speed. To be eligible, you must resolve your criminal case (which typically means entering a guilty plea at the Ontario Court of Justice) within 90 days of the date your offence occurred. If your lawyer requires a slight extension, the Crown may sometimes agree to push this timeline slightly, but strict adherence is usually required. Your lawyer must negotiate with the Crown to ensure they do not oppose your entry into the program.
Step 2: Serve the Absolute Prohibition
Once convicted and sentenced, your 1-year suspension begins. Even if approved for Stream A, you must serve an absolute driving prohibition for the first 3 months. During this 90-day period post-conviction, you cannot drive under any circumstances.
Step 3: Register for Back on Track
Before you can get your interlock licence, you must register for and pay for Ontario’s remedial measures program called Back on Track. You do not have to finish the entire program before the 3 months are up, but you must be fully registered and have completed the initial assessment phase.
Step 4: Install the Approved Device
Near the end of your 3-month absolute prohibition, you must sign a lease agreement with an MTO-approved Ignition Interlock service provider (like ALCOLOCK or Smart Start). Once installed, you will take the proof of installation, along with your reinstatement fees, to a ServiceOntario centre in Brampton to have your licence condition updated to clearly state you may only drive interlock-equipped vehicles.
Stream A vs. Stream B Comparison
| Requirement | Stream A | Stream B |
|---|---|---|
| Guilty Plea Timeline | Within 90 days of the offence | After 90 days, or post-trial |
| Absolute Suspension | 3 Months | 6 Months |
| Time on Interlock | Minimum 9 Months | Minimum 12 Months |
How Much Does the Ignition Interlock Program Cost?
Participating in the Ignition Interlock program is entirely at your own expense. If you live in Brampton, you should budget for the following estimated costs:
- Back on Track Registration: $634 CAD (Mandatory for all convicted drivers).
- MTO Reinstatement Fee: $281 CAD.
- Interlock Installation Fee: Approximately $100 to $150 CAD.
- Monthly Interlock Lease & Calibration: $100 to $130 CAD per month (totals around $1,000 to $1,200 CAD over the required 9-month period).
- Device Removal Fee: Approximately $50 CAD.
- Lawyer Fees: Defence lawyer fees to negotiate early resolution range from $2,000 to $5,000 CAD.
How Long Must You Keep the Interlock Device?
For Stream A participants with a first-time conviction, you must keep the device installed and maintain a clean record for a minimum of 9 months. During this time, the device logs every breath sample. If you blow a “warn” or a “fail,” or if you try to tamper with the machine, the MTO may extend your interlock period or revoke your driving privileges entirely. Once the 9 months are successfully completed, you can apply to have the interlock condition removed from your driver’s licence. 🚗
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I drive my spouse’s car if it doesn’t have an interlock?
No. Your licence will have an “I” condition attached to it. You are legally prohibited from driving any vehicle that is not equipped with an approved ignition interlock device.
What happens if I fail the breath test on the machine?
If the device detects alcohol, your car will not start. Repeated lockouts or failed tests are reported to the Ministry of Transportation, which can result in penalties, extensions of your interlock period, or removal from the program.
Does entering Stream A give me a criminal record?
Yes. Stream A is a penalty reduction program for your driving privileges, but to enter it, you must plead guilty to a criminal offence. You will receive a permanent criminal record.
Can a law firm help me get into Stream A?
Yes. A criminal defence lawyer is highly recommended to negotiate with the Crown Attorney in Brampton to ensure your paperwork is processed within the strict 90-day window and that the Crown consents to the program.
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