Will I Lose My License After a DUI in Colorado?
In most cases, yes. How long depends on your blood alcohol content (BAC), whether you refused testing, and your driving history. A DWAI alone usually does not trigger an automatic suspension the way a DUI does.
Two Separate Systems Can Take Your License
Colorado runs two separate processes after a DUI arrest, and either one can cost you your license.
The first is an administrative process through the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles. This is separate from your criminal case and focuses only on the testing, or lack thereof, you did at the time of your arrest.
The second is the criminal court process. If you are convicted, the DMV will assess points on your driving record accordingly. Once a person reaches 12 points, the DMV initiates a separate administrative process to revoke your driving privileges.
These two systems move independently. This means you could lose your license administratively even before your criminal case is decided. It also means you could win your criminal case and still lose your license through the first DMV process, or the other way around.
The 7-Day Deadline You Cannot Miss
You have only 7 days from your arrest, or from the date your blood test results come back, to request a hearing with the Colorado DMV. If you miss this deadline, the suspension moves forward automatically. This happens no matter what is going on with your criminal case.
What Changes How Long You Lose Your License
BAC Level and Refusal
The length of your suspension depends on the details of your arrest.
Standard first offense (BAC 0.08 to 0.149): 9-month license suspension
Extreme DUI (BAC 0.15 or higher): 9-month suspension, plus a required 2-year ignition interlock device
Test refusal: a suspension of up to one year, plus a required 2-year ignition interlock device
Special Categories: Drivers Under 21 and CDL Holders
Two groups face stricter rules.
Drivers under 21 fall under Colorado's zero-tolerance policy. Any detectable amount of alcohol can lead to a license suspension, even below the standard 0.08 limit that applies to adult drivers.
Commercial driver's license (CDL) holders can also be disqualified from commercial driving at BAC levels below the standard 0.08 limit that applies to regular licenses.
Does a DWAI Suspend Your License Too?
A first-offense DWAI does not trigger an automatic license suspension. Instead, it adds 8 points to your driving record. However, points can still catch up with you. If you build up 12 points within 12 months, or 18 points within 24 months, your license can be suspended on points alone, separate from the DUI or DWAI charge itself.
What Happens Next
If your license has already been suspended, the next step is understanding how to get it back. Our guide on getting your license back after a DUI in Colorado walks through the reinstatement process, including SR-22 insurance and the ignition interlock option.
If you are not sure whether you're facing a DUI or a DWAI, our DUI vs. DWAI comparison page breaks down the difference and how it affects your penalties.