RoadSafetyBC refers drivers to the Responsible Driver Program (RDP) when a driver is prohibited because of alcohol or drug-affected driving. Research shows that drivers who participate in remedial programs change their behaviour which results in a reduced number of alcohol or drug related collisions and conviction.
The RDP is a remedial program for drivers with certain alcohol and/or drug related driving prohibitions. Every Canadian province and many jurisdictions throughout the world have similar programs and they have been shown to reduce the risk of repeat alcohol and/or drug related collisions and convictions.
Drivers who have certain alcohol and/or drug related driving prohibition(s) must participate in the Responsible Driver Program to regain or keep their driver’s licence. Any drivers who choose not to participate in the program are not eligible for a driver’s licence.
Alcohol or drug affected drivers meeting the criteria outlined in the Motor Vehicle Act regulations will be given a referral to participate in the RDP. Sections 25.1, 25.2 and 233(7) of the Motor Vehicle Act outline the driver’s participation in the RDP. Referrals made under Section 25.2 of the Motor Vehicle Act are prescribed in regulation and are not subject to a reconsideration process.
If a driving record does not meet the criteria for a mandatory referral, but is still considered unsatisfactory, the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles (the lead representative of RoadSafetyBC) may still require a driver to take part in the RDP under Section 25.1 of the Motor Vehicle Act.
In these cases, drivers may ask the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles to reconsider their referral to the RDP.
Drivers that receive certain convictions under the Criminal Code of Canada are required to complete the RDP prior to reinstating their driver’s licence, per Section 233(7) of the Motor Vehicle Act.
The Superintendent of Motor Vehicles will send a letter to anyone who is referred to the RDP. The driver must complete the program as a condition of keeping their driver's licence or, depending on the type of prohibition received, before they can regain their driving privileges.
The RDP is offered virtually, or onsite throughout British Columbia and costs $1,200.
The quickest way to register for the RDP is by visiting the CAMH website at www.ResponsibleDriverProgram.ca.
Alternatively, you can download the registration form (PDF, 241KB) and mail, email or fax the completed form to CAMH. Once your registration is processed, you will get a confirmation email with a list of service providers and next steps. After paying the program fee, participants will start the RDP.
The RDP has 3 components:
Component 1:
The driver will undergo a telephone assessment. This assessment will be used to determine which of the two workshops the driver must complete.
Component 2:
There is a Level 1 – 8-hour workshop or a Level 2 – 16-hour workshop. The assessment will determine which workshop you will need. Workshop placement is dependent on a number of factors, including driving history and lifestyle choices. Both workshops present information on topics such as how alcohol and other drugs affect your ability to drive safely. They also cover how to separate drinking and other drug use from driving.
Component 3:
A one-on-one follow up discussion takes place six months after the workshop component and is an essential component of the RDP. The purpose of the follow-up is to review the skills gained and goals set at the workshop.
It may take up to 11 months to complete the entire program. Prompt registration with CAMH is strongly advised.
RoadSafetyBC will notify you in writing once you have completed the RDP to the satisfaction of the Superintendent of Motor Vehicles.
As of September 13, 2024, a program participant is eligible for the No Barriers Financial Assistance Plan if they receive any of the following assistance from the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction:
The No Barriers Financial Assistance Plan reduces the total program cost of $1,200 by 29% to $852.50. There is no payment plan option with the No Barriers Financial Assistance Plan.
If you are receiving income assistance, you may qualify for CAMH’s No Barriers Financial Assistance Plan. To apply:
Each month, up to 5% of program participants are accepted into the No Barriers Financial Assistance Plan and will be eligible for a reduction to their registration fee.
CAMH will contact you to let you know if you are accepted into the No Barriers Financial Assistance Plan and eligible for the reduction in the registration fee. If not accepted, CAMH may add you to a waitlist for future availability.
The Affordability Payment Plan is a payment option for new participants of the RDP. The plan splits the $1,200 program cost into the following four scheduled payments:
It can take up to 11 months to complete the entire program so register right away. Delaying registration or missing a payment could delay progress in the program and may result in the cancellation of your driver’s licence.
To make each payment, contact CAMH at 1-844-398-4144 or RDPinfo@camh.ca. When your payment is confirmed, you will receive confirmation via email, mail, or phone with instructions on how to schedule and pay for your next component.
If you are eligible for a reconsideration, the process to follow is in the Notice to Refer to Remedial Programs letter we sent you. If you can't find your referral letter or need more information, contact ICBC or RoadSafetyBC.