Moving to a new province comes with many adjustments—including understanding local traffic laws. One common area of confusion for newcomers in New Brunswick is how speeding tickets work and, more importantly, how long you have to act.
This guide breaks down the essential timelines and deadlines to help you navigate the system smoothly.
🚨 What Happens When You Receive a Speeding Ticket?
When law enforcement issues a ticket under the Motor Vehicle Act, it serves as a formal notice of an offence. Your ticket will clearly list:
- The specific offence and fine amount.
- Demerit points associated with the violation.
- A Response Due Date (the most critical piece of information).
⏱️How Long Do You Have to Respond?
In New Brunswick, the clock starts the moment the ticket is handed to you.
The 45-Day Rule: You have 45 days from the date of issuance to respond. Within this window, you must choose one of two paths:
- Pay the Fine: This is an admission of guilt. You can pay via the Service New Brunswick Online Portal to close the matter instantly.
- Dispute the Ticket: If you wish to contest the charge, you must file a “Notice of Dispute” before that 45-day mark.
âť—What If You Do Nothing?
Ignoring a ticket is the costliest mistake a newcomer can make. If 45 days pass without a response:
- Deemed Conviction: You are automatically found guilty by the court in your absence.
- No Further Notice: You may not receive a reminder before the conviction is registered.
đź’łTimeline to Pay After Conviction
If you are convicted (either because you ignored the ticket or lost your case in court), New Brunswick provides a final window to settle the debt:
- Fines under $1,200: You have 90 days to pay.
- Fines $1,200 or more: You have 180 days to pay.
⚖️Consequences of Non-Payment
If the “90 or 180-day” window expires and the fine remains unpaid, the province will take enforcement action. The most common consequence is the suspension of your driver’s licence. You will not be able to renew your registration or licence until the debt—and often an additional reinstatement fee—is paid in full.
🧠Pro-Tips for Newcomers
- Check the Date: Mark the 45th day on your calendar immediately.
- Address Accuracy: Ensure your address is updated with Service New Brunswick, as conviction notices are sent to the address on file.
- Insurance Impact: Even a small ticket can raise your premiums. Consider how a conviction affects your long-term costs in Canada.
