The province is bringing in drug-impaired driving penalties to match those for drunk driving.

Beginning this Sunday October 2, drivers under the influence of drugs will face:

• A $180 penalty

• Immediate licence suspension of three days the first time they’re caught, seven days the second time and 30 days for the third and any subsequent occurrences after failing a roadside sobriety test

• A possible 90-day licence suspension and seven-day vehicle impoundment following more testing by a drug recognition expert at the police station
• Mandatory education or treatment programs and installation of an ignition interlock device in their vehicle for drivers with two or more licence suspensions involving alcohol or drugs within a 10-year period. 

In addition, impaired driving can lead to criminal charges that could ultimately result in a loss of licence, additional fines and a prison sentence.