March 19, 2026
5 min
Written by: Arian Borys, Licensed Insurance Broker (Level 3), Humberview Insurance Brokers Back on Track Ontario – Quick Facts
- Back on Track Ontario Cost:
- Impaired driving conviction: $894
- Administrative suspension: $344 (may increase for repeat suspensions)
- Length: 1–2 day workshop + 6-month follow-up
- Locations: Available across Ontario (Toronto, London, Belleville, Aurora, Peel & more) but most sessions done virtually.
- Required for: Licence reinstatement after a DUI or alcohol-related roadside suspension
- Novice Drivers: Must complete an 8-hour education course if any alcohol or drugs are detected in their system
- Timeline: Approximately 90–100 days for administrative suspensions and up to 11 months for impaired driving conviction.
If you’ve been convicted of impaired driving or received an alcohol or drug-related roadside suspension in Ontario, completing the Back on Track program is now a mandatory step before your driver’s licence can be reinstated. As of 2026, even a first-time roadside suspension includes a mandatory 8-hour Back on Track education course.
What is Back on Track Ontario
Back on Track is a mandatory remedial program that must be completed before your driver’s licence can be reinstated in Ontario. The program includes three parts:
- The Assessment
- Education Workshop
- Treatment Workshop
Criminal Code impaired driving conviction:
You must complete all three parts of the Back on Track program.
Administrative suspensions within the last 10 years:
- One suspension → 8-hour Education workshop
- Two suspensions → 16-hour Treatment workshop
- Three or more suspensions → 16-hour Treatment workshop
For administrative suspensions, the type of workshop is determined by how many suspensions you’ve had within the past 10 years.
Program Details for Back on Track Ontario
- Program Components:
- Assessment: An initial one-hour evaluation determines whether participants should attend the Education or Treatment workshop.
- Education Workshop (one day): An 8-hour session that covers:
- Myths and facts about alcohol and other drugs
- Effects of substances on driving performance and safety
- Legal and personal consequences of impaired driving
- Strategies to prevent impaired driving
The workshop includes presentations, exercises, discussions, and group work.
- Treatment Workshop (two days): A 16-hour program focusing on:
- Understanding reasons behind substance use
- Assessing personal alcohol and drug use and its consequences
- Developing strategies to reduce or eliminate problematic use
- Learning skills for stress management, communication, and healthy decision-making
This workshop also includes group activities and personal planning.
- Follow-Up Interview:
- Six months after completing the workshop, participants attend a 30-minute follow-up interview. This interview assesses progress and reinforces strategies to avoid impaired driving. It can be conducted in person or by phone.
Back on Track Locations Across Ontario
The Back on Track Ontario program is available across multiple cities and regions throughout the province through regional service providers. Many assessments and follow-ups are now completed virtually via Zoom or similar platforms. To register, you must complete your application online or contact the program directly to receive specific course details, provider information, and scheduling options.
👉 You can register online at https://remedial.net/ or call 1-888-814-5831 for assistance.
Below is a list of cities and regions where Back on Track programs are offered:
- Greater Toronto Area: Toronto (downtown), Aurora, Oshawa, Barrie, Peterborough
- Southwestern Ontario: London, Windsor, Sarnia, Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph, Brantford, Burlington, Hamilton, St. Catharines
- Eastern Ontario: Ottawa, Kingston, Belleville, Cornwall, Smiths Falls, Renfrew / Pembroke
- Northern Ontario: North Bay, Timmins, Sault Ste. Marie, Thunder Bay, Kenora, Bracebridge
Availability may vary by provider, and many participants may be offered virtual options depending on their location and assessment.
Ignition Interlock Requirements After a DUI in Ontario
In many cases, drivers convicted of impaired driving in Ontario are also required to install an ignition interlock device as part of the licence reinstatement process. This device prevents a vehicle from starting unless a breath sample confirms no alcohol is present, and it typically comes with strict conditions and monthly costs. Understanding how the ignition interlock program works, how long it’s required, and what to expect can help you avoid delays and stay compliant. Learn more in our guide on Ontario ignition interlock requirements and costs, including details on how much an ignition interlock device costs in Ontario.
Get DUI Insurance in Ontario and Move Forward
After completing the Back on Track program and meeting your reinstatement requirements, securing the right car insurance may be the next step. Many standard insurers may decline coverage or charge significantly higher premiums after a DUI or impaired driving conviction, but there are still options available. At Humberview Insurance, we help Ontario drivers compare DUI insurance options, including access to cheap car insurance with a DUI, and find competitive rates tailored to their situation. If you’re ready to move forward, get a quote today and take the next step toward getting back on the road with confidence.
Back On Track Ontario FAQ
Do you need Back on Track after a first offence in Ontario?
Yes, even a first-time roadside suspension typically includes a mandatory education course.
How Much is the Back on Track Program in Ontario?
$344 or $894 depending on the offence.
How Long Does the Back on Track Program Take in Ontario?
While the Back on Track program itself can be completed in as little as one or two days, the full process typically takes several months. After completing the workshop, participants must wait at least six months before completing a required follow-up interview. As a result, the entire program can take up to 11 months to fully complete, depending on scheduling and individual circumstances.
When should I register for Back on Track?
7 Days after your impaired conviction or administrative suspension.