Colorado DUI Laws

DUI or DWAI Charges in Colorado? A DUI lawyer can answer your questions

Colorado DUI laws are some of the most nuanced in the nation. Like most states, Colorado carries stiff penalties for drunk drivers with a BAC above .08. But, Colorado can also charge drivers with DWAI, driving while ability impaired. A BAC of .05 or greater gives rise to an inference of impairment.

Both charges carry penalties that can leave a lasting impact on any convicted driver. Because of the consequences, and the complex nature of the state's DUI laws,  many people charged with drunk driving choose to contact a lawyer specializing in DUI law.

Talking to an Colorado DUI lawyer who knows the state laws and how they apply to your case may help you make informed decisions. A DUI lawyer can answer questions you have about your case or specific state laws. The choices you make now can impact you - and your family - for years to come.

Fill out the form on this page to speak with a DUI lawyer near you today.

There is a wide range of penalties for DUI and DWAI in Colorado. Even if this is your first offense you could be facing jail time, fines and community service. If you refuse a breath test in Colorado you could have your license suspended for one year.

Colorado DUI & DWAI Penalties

First DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) Conviction (BAC between .05-.08)

  • Eight points toward suspension on driver's license
  • $200-500 fine
  • 2-180 days in jail
  • 24-48 hours of community service

Second DWAI Conviction

  • One-year revoked driver's license
  • $600-1,000 fine
  • 60 days-One year in jail
  • 48-96 hours of community service

First DUI Conviction (BAC of .08 or greater)

  • 12 points toward suspension on driver's license (which results in license suspension)
  • $600-1,000 fine
  • Five days-One year in jail
  • 48-96 hours of community service

Second DUI Conviction

  • One-year revoked driver's license
  • $1,000-1,500 fine
  • Minimum 10 days in jail
  • 60-120 hours of community service
  • Two years probation

DWAI with a previous DUI conviction on record

  • One-year revoked driver's license
  • $800-1,200 fine
  • 60 days-One year in jail
  • 52-104 hours of community service

DUI with a previous DWAI conviction on record

  • One-year driver's license revocation
  • $900-1,500 fine
  • 70 days-1 year in jail
  • 56-112 hours of community service

Penalties for Refusal

  • One-year suspended license
A local DUI lawyer can answer any questions you might have about the laws in Colorado or your specific DUI case. To speak with a DUI lawyer near you today, fill out the free case evaluation form on this page or call us, toll free, at 877-349-1311.

Note: Laws may have changed since our last update. For the latest information on these DUI laws, speak to a local DUI lawyer in your state.

The Colorado DUI penalty list is by no means all-inclusive. DUI penalties may vary based on a variety of factors, including your prior driving record.



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