If you’ve recently looked at your auto insurance renewal, you may have noticed that "clean driving" is more valuable than ever. In Alberta, driving convictions aren't just legal headaches—they are the primary factor in determining whether you qualify for the provincial Good Driver Rate Cap.
Understanding how different infractions are categorized is the first step toward protecting your wallet.
What is Considered a Driving Conviction in Alberta?
Not every ticket affects your insurance. To impact your premiums, a ticket must be a moving violation where you were personally identified by law enforcement.
- Impacts Insurance: Speeding tickets, distracted driving, and failing to stop (tickets issued by an officer).
- No Impact on Insurance: Photo radar, parking tickets, and equipment violations (like a burnt-out tail light). You still have to pay the fine, but your "insurance record" remains clean.
What are Minor Driving Convictions in Alberta?
There are over 40 minor convictions in Alberta. While they seem small, as of 2026, having even one minor conviction on your record can disqualify you from the 7.5% "Good Driver" rate cap.
List of Common Minor Traffic Violations in Alberta
- Speeding: Exceeding the limit by less than 50 km/h (excluding outside of school/playground zones).
- Improper Turns: Failing to signal, illegal U-turns, or improper lane changes.
- Failure to Yield: Not giving way to pedestrians or other vehicles at intersections and merges.
- Traffic Lights: Running a yellow or red light (when pulled over by an officer).
What are Major Driving Convictions & How Do They Affect Insurance?
Major convictions are serious safety violations. These typically result in an immediate surcharge and a 3-year "black mark" on your insurance profile.
- Distracted Driving: Using a hand-held device (even at a red light).
- School/Playground Zones: Any speeding in these protected areas.
- Excessive Speeding: Going 50 km/h or more over the posted limit.
- Insurance Offences: Driving without valid insurance or a valid license.
- Stunting: Careless driving, racing, or betting on the roadway.
Which Criminal Code Driving Offenses Impact Insurance in Alberta?
These are the most severe offenses and often carry mandatory license suspensions and potential prison time.
- Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Failure to Remain: Hit-and-run accidents.
- Dangerous Operation: Actions causing bodily harm or death.
How Much Will a Ticket Increase My Alberta Insurance Premium?
In Alberta, insurers use a "Grid" system to determine the maximum premium they can charge. Here is how convictions typically surcharge your base rate:
|
Number of Convictions |
Minor Surcharge |
Major Surcharge |
Criminal Surcharge |
|
1 Conviction |
0% - 25%* |
25% |
300% |
|
2 Convictions |
25% |
50% |
450% |
|
3 Convictions |
35% |
100% |
600% |
|
4 Convictions |
75% |
200% |
900%+ |
Note: While the first minor ticket might have a 0% surcharge with some companies, it still removes your "Good Driver" status, meaning your base rate could still rise significantly.
How Long Do Driving Convictions Stay on Your Insurance Record?
It is a common myth that tickets disappear quickly. In Alberta, there are two different timelines to watch:
-
- Demerits (2 Years): These affect your standing with the Government (license suspension).
- Insurance Record (3–4 Years): * Minor/Major: Affects your premium for 3 years from the date you paid the ticket (the conviction date).
- Criminal: Stays on your insurance record for 4 years.
Does a Defensive Driving Course Lower Insurance in Alberta?
The short answer is: No. While a defensive driving course can remove up to 3 demerits from your government license, it does not remove the conviction from your insurance record. Your insurance company will still see the ticket and apply the relevant surcharge for the full three years.
Expert Advice: How to Protect Your Alberta Insurance Rates
The best way to keep insurance affordable in Alberta is to maintain "Good Driver" status.
- Avoid the "Minor" Trap: Even a small 10 km/h speeding ticket can cost you your rate cap eligibility.
- Watch the Calendar: Surcharges drop off 3 years plus one day after your conviction date.
Are you 3 years conviction-free? You are likely paying too much if you haven't shopped around recently. You may be eligible for significant "Safe Driver" discounts.
