Every province and territory in Canada runs its own ignition interlock program, and most approve only one or two companies to install and monitor the devices. Use this page to find the approved ignition interlock provider where you live, what the program involves and who to call.
Approved ignition interlock providers by province
| Province | Approved provider(s) | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | Smart Start Canada and ALCOLOCK Canada | See each company’s listing below |
| British Columbia | Smart Start Canada (contracted by RoadSafetyBC since April 1, 2024) | 1-844-432-4776 |
| Alberta | Smart Start Canada ULC | 1-844-432-4776 |
| Manitoba | Smart Start (installs and maintains devices for Manitoba Public Insurance) | MPI: 1-800-665-2410 |
| Quebec | Smart Start (SAAQ’s authorized supplier) | 1-844-282-8300 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | Alcolock | 1-877-658-6374 |
| Saskatchewan | Smart Start Canada (SGI’s vendor; Regina, Saskatoon, Prince Albert) | SGI: 1-844-855-2744 |
| Nova Scotia | ALCOLOCK (10 service centres, incl. Dartmouth, Truro, Sydney) | RMV: 1-800-898-7668 |
| Yukon | Smart Start Canada and ALCOLOCK both list Whitehorse service; confirm with the Driver Control Board | 867-667-5623 |
| New Brunswick | ALCOLOCK, installed by Safeside Atlantic (Moncton, Hanwell) | 1-877-658-6374 |
| Prince Edward Island | ALCOLOCK (Summerside, Cornwall) | 1-877-658-6374 |
| Northwest Territories, Nunavut | NWT: Smart Start Canada and ALCOLOCK both list Yellowknife service. Nunavut: ask your licensing office | Driver and Vehicle Services |
Provider information comes from government program pages and the providers’ own service-centre pages (checked November 2026). Programs and contracts change, so confirm with your licensing agency before you book.
How the ignition interlock program works in Canada
An ignition interlock is a breath-testing device wired into your vehicle’s ignition. You blow into it before the engine starts, and it asks for random retests while you drive. If it detects alcohol above the program limit, the vehicle will not start and the event is reported to your licensing agency.
- Who needs one: drivers convicted of impaired driving, and in many provinces drivers with roadside suspensions, often as a condition of getting their licence back early.
- Who pays: the driver. Programs are user-pay, with installation, monthly monitoring and removal fees paid to the provider.
- Service visits: the device has to be downloaded and calibrated at a service centre on a set schedule, usually every 30 to 60 days.
- How long: from several months to several years, depending on the offence and the province.
Need a lawyer or treatment first?
Most interlock orders follow an impaired driving charge. Find a local impaired driving lawyer on our sister sites: Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Quebec, Nova Scotia and Yukon. Each site also has a free page on addiction help and treatment.
Interlock providers in Canada
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose any ignition interlock company in Canada?
Usually not. Each province approves its own provider or providers. In several provinces, including British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec, there is one approved provider. Ontario approves two.
Who pays for an ignition interlock device?
The driver pays. Canadian interlock programs are user-pay, so installation, monthly monitoring and removal fees go to the approved provider.
How do I get an interlock installed?
Your licensing agency tells you when you are eligible. You then contact the approved provider in your province to book an installation at one of its service centres.
