Skip to main content
Find a Lawyer
Please enter a legal issue and/or a location
Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, use enter to select

Colorado DUI Laws

Your first (and hopefully last) DUI offense in Colorado can cost upwards of $10,000 in fines, court costs, legal fees, probation supervision fees, ignition interlock device (IID) rental, and other fees. But other potential costs of a DUI -- such as life-altering injuries or death -- are not so easy to quantify. While it's quite common to have a couple of drinks before getting behind the wheel, all it takes is one drink too many to get arrested, or worse. Getting yourself up to speed on the DUI laws enforced by Colorado not only will help you avoid committing the offense, but also can help you plan your next steps if you are arrested.

Below are the basics of Colorado DUI law, including common penalties, blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits, and license suspension information.    

Colorado DUI Laws: Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits and Implied Consent

"Per Se" BAC Limit 0.08 Percent
Zero Tolerance (Underage) BAC Limit 0.02 Percent
Enhanced Penalty (Aggravated) BAC Limit 0.17 Percent
Implied Consent to Submit to BAC Test? Yes
 

Colorado DUI Laws: Select Penalties

Minimum License Suspension or Revocation (1st, 2nd, 3rd offense) 9 months, 1 year, 2 years
Mandatory Alcohol Education, Assessment and Treatment Both
Vehicle Confiscation Possible? No
Ignition Interlock Device Possible? Yes (mandatory for 2nd offense)

Note: State laws are always changing through legislative, judicial, or other means. While FindLaw works hard to ensure the accuracy of its legal resources, it's a good idea to thoroughly research the law or check with an attorney to make sure you have the most recent information. 

Ignition Interlock Devices (IID) and Restricted Licenses in Colorado

If you have been convicted of a DUI or have refused to submit to a BAC test after being stopped for suspicion of impaired driving, you may be required to have an IID installed on your vehicle. IID's require the driver to submit a breath sample, which the device then analyzes for traces of alcohol, before the engine will be allowed to start. In some instances, you may be eligible for financial aid to help pay for IID rental.

Colorado DUI Resources

Learn More About Colorado DUI Laws by Speaking with an Attorney

There are some legal issues you can handle on your own, but DUI charges often require the skilled touch of a seasoned DUI attorney. Even if you have few or no defenses to the actual charges, an attorney can advocate on your behalf and help you achieve the best possible outcome. Learn more about your legal options by contacting a DUI attorney in Colorado today.

Was this helpful?

Response sent, thank you

You Don’t Have To Solve This on Your Own – Get a Lawyer’s Help

Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.

Or contact an attorney near you:

Next Steps

Contact a qualified DUI attorney to make sure your rights are protected.

Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, use enter to select

Help Me Find a Do-It-Yourself Solution

Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?

  • Complex DUI situations usually require a lawyer
  • DUI defense attorneys can challenge Breathalyzer/Intoxilyzer or blood test results
  • A lawyer can seek to reduce or eliminate DUI penalties
  • A lawyer can help get your license back

Get tailored advice and ask your legal questions. Many attorneys offer free consultations.

 

 If you need an attorney, find one right now.

Copied to clipboard

Find a Lawyer

More Options