Starting July 20, 2025, Canada will implement a new set of nationwide driving rules aimed at improving road safety, addressing distracted driving, and strengthening penalties for repeat offenders.
These rules have been crafted in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments to unify traffic regulations and modernize outdated road laws. The new rules will apply to both private and commercial vehicle drivers and will particularly affect speed management, impaired driving, and driver licensing protocols.
Stricter Penalties for Distracted and Impaired Driving
Under the new regulations, distracted driving which includes the use of handheld devices while behind the wheel will carry heavier fines and extended license suspensions.
First-time offenders could face fines up to CAD $1,200, compared to the previous average of $615, along with four to six demerit points and possible 7-day license suspension. Repeat offenders within 12 months may face mandatory driver retraining programs.
Similarly, the legal threshold for impaired driving (alcohol and drugs) will be monitored more rigorously using upgraded roadside screening technology. Enhanced enforcement will include mandatory breath and saliva testing in certain provinces, regardless of whether reasonable suspicion exists.
New Speed Regulation Zones and Enforcement Technology
Canada is also rolling out automated speed enforcement (ASE) in more urban and school zones. The new rules allow municipalities to lower speed limits in high-risk pedestrian areas to as low as 30 km/h, with steep penalties for exceeding the posted limits. Speed cameras will be legally mandated and widely used to issue automated tickets, reducing the reliance on physical traffic stops.
Table: Key Driving Rule Changes from July 20, 2025
| Rule Category | Old Law (Pre-July 2025) | New Rule (Effective July 20) |
|---|---|---|
| Distracted Driving Fine | CAD $615 average | Up to CAD $1,200 + License Suspension |
| Speed Limits in Urban Zones | Typically 50 km/h | May reduce to 30 km/h in designated zones |
| Speed Camera Use | Limited to few cities | Nationally expanded in school and residential zones |
| Impaired Driving Test | Suspicion-based testing only | Random mandatory breath/saliva tests allowed |
| Driver Training Post Offence | Not mandatory for most offences | Compulsory for repeat distracted/impaired offences |
New Licensing and Age Rules
The minimum probation period for new GDL (Graduated Driver’s License) drivers is now extended to 18 months instead of 12. During this time, any violation especially for texting, DUI, or speeding could result in license cancellation. The federal framework also encourages provinces to raise the minimum driving age for high-risk vehicle classes (e.g., transport trucks) to 20.
Push for Eco-Friendly Driving and Vehicle Safety
The federal government has also introduced incentives for drivers of electric vehicles (EVs) to adopt eco-safe practices. Eco-driving modules may become mandatory in driving tests across provinces, aiming to reduce emissions and promote sustainable transport.