An RCMP officer checking for speeders on Highway 63 south of Fort McMurray. Photo provided by the RCMP
EDMONTON — Fines for dangerous and common traffic offences increased across Alberta on Friday as the province introduced its first major update to traffic penalties in more than a decade.
Under the new schedule, fines for high-risk driving offences such as excessive speeding, racing, stunting and careless driving have increased by as much as 50 per cent. A ticket for careless driving, racing or stunting now carries a fine of $852, up from $567.
Other common traffic offences, including distracted driving and seatbelt violations, have increased by about 30 per cent.
The fine for distracted driving has risen to $390 from $300, while the penalty for failing to wear a seatbelt increased to $211 from $162.
Updated penalties for speeding vary depending on how far a driver exceeds the limit. A driver caught 10 kilometres per hour over the speed limit now faces a $144 fine, up from $110, while speeding 50 kilometres per hour over the limit can result in a $744 ticket. In some cases involving extreme speeds, drivers may be required to appear in court where a judge determines the penalty.
The changes are set out in a provincial regulation filed in February that amends Alberta’s Procedures Regulation under the Provincial Offences Procedure Act. The new penalty schedule took effect 30 days after filing.
Provincial officials say the increases are intended to improve road safety and bring Alberta’s penalties more in line with those in other jurisdictions. The province had not increased traffic fines since 2015.
Police agencies across the province have been reminding drivers of the changes in recent days, noting many common offences now carry significantly higher penalties.
Law enforcement statistics show distracted driving and seatbelt violations remain frequent offences. Calgary police issued more than 2,200 distracted driving tickets in 2025, while Edmonton police issued nearly 3,100.
Alberta RCMP also reported issuing more than 2,300 tickets last year for seatbelt and restraint-related violations.
Officials say drivers remain responsible for ensuring passengers under the age of 16 are properly restrained and are urging motorists to follow posted speed limits and avoid distractions behind the wheel.
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