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 attorney 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
Learn Your Options with a Colorado DUI Attorney
A local DUI attorney 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.