No, you absolutely can get traffic tickets in Canada. The rules of the road are strictly enforced, and violations like speeding, running red lights, or illegal parking will result in fines, much like in the United States. However, the process and consequences can differ significantly depending on the province or territory where the violation occurs, as traffic laws are primarily a provincial responsibility.
If you're a U.S. driver visiting Canada, you are subject to the same traffic laws as local drivers. A ticket you receive will be issued against you, the driver. For minor infractions, you will typically pay a fine directly. The critical difference for visitors involves more serious offenses. Canada and the U.S. have agreements (like the Driver License Compact, though not all provinces are members) that can lead to your home state being notified of a major violation committed in Canada. This could potentially result in points on your domestic license.
Ignoring a ticket is a bad idea. If you don't pay a fine, the province can flag your vehicle's license plate. This could lead to your car being impounded if you're stopped again in that province, or you could be denied entry at the border during a future trip until the fine is settled. The enforcement mechanisms are robust. For example, automated speed cameras (photo radar) and red-light cameras are common in many cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, issuing tickets by mail to the registered owner of the vehicle, regardless of who was driving.
| Jurisdiction | Common Speeding Fine (Example) | Red Light Camera Fine | Key Enforcement Note |
|---|
| Ontario | ~$3.90 per km/h over limit | Approx. $325 | Strict " stunt driving" laws for 40+ km/h over limit; immediate license suspension. |
| British Columbia | $138-$196 for 20-40 km/h over | $368 | Points system can lead to driver penalty points (DPP) and higher insurance. |
| Alberta | ~$78 for 1-15 km/h over | $388 | Photo radar is extensively used on highways and in municipalities. |
| Quebec | $105 for 21-30 km/h over | $285 | Has a reciprocal agreement with many U.S. states for serious violations. |
| Ontario (Highway 407) | Tolls + administrative fees for non-payment | N/A | A private toll highway; unpaid tolls can lead to denial of license plate renewal. |
The best strategy is always to obey posted speed limits and traffic signals. If you do get a ticket, address it promptly according to the instructions on the ticket to avoid escalating penalties and complications.
