A Saskatchewan driver is charged with a qualifying Criminal Code impaired-driving offence and is served the administrative suspension notice. Has the driver kept ordinary driving privileges merely because the court has not yet decided the charge?

Correct answer: No. It takes effect at once and normally lasts until the charge is resolved.

Why

The administrative suspension takes effect immediately when the specified notice is served. It is separate from the criminal case and does not require the driver to be convicted first. Under section 148, it ordinarily continues until the prosecution is stayed or withdrawn, or the driver is acquitted or convicted; eligible early reinstatement is a separate process. A conviction can bring further consequences, while the notice itself is not a finding of guilt.

Verified against Saskatchewan Driver's Handbook: A Guide to Safe Driving · Complying with the law when driving · p. 193