DUI Penalties and Laws in Colorado

What You Need to Know

Driving under the influence (DUI) is one of the most serious traffic offenses in Colorado. A conviction can affect nearly every part of your life, from your ability to drive to your employment, education, and even personal relationships. The penalties extend well beyond fines and court costs. They may include jail time, probation, mandatory alcohol classes, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record.

At Orr Law Firm, we understand what is at stake. Based in Denver, our legal team helps clients throughout Colorado navigate the criminal courts, DMV hearings, and the long-term consequences of DUI charges. Below is an overview of how Colorado penalizes DUI offenses and why strong legal representation is essential.

Facing DUI penalties in Colorado? Contact us online or call (303) 747-4247 today for experienced defense tailored to your situation.

First Offense DUI Penalties

Many people mistakenly assume that a first offense DUI will result in a warning or a light penalty. In Colorado, that is not the case. 

Even a first offense carries serious consequences, such as:

• Jail time ranging from five days to one year
• Fines up to $1,000, plus court fees and surcharges
• Up to 96 hours of community service
• Mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs
• Suspension of your driver’s license
• 12 points added to your license (enough to trigger a suspension by itself)

A first conviction also leaves a permanent mark on your criminal record, which cannot be sealed or expunged under Colorado law. That record can affect job applications, housing opportunities, and professional licensing.

Repeat Offense DUI Penalties

The penalties escalate sharply for second, third, and subsequent DUI convictions. Colorado law views repeat offenses as proof of a pattern of dangerous behavior, and courts respond with much harsher consequences.

These include:

• Mandatory jail time (often with no option for suspension or reduction)
• Longer probation periods with strict supervision
• Higher fines that can exceed several thousand dollars
• Extended license suspensions or full revocation
• Court-ordered installation of an ignition interlock device, often for multiple years
• Increased insurance costs, sometimes making coverage nearly unaffordable

Repeat DUI convictions also carry a heavier social and professional impact. Employers, schools, and licensing boards may view multiple convictions as disqualifying.

Driver’s License Points and Suspension

A DUI is not just a criminal matter — it is also an administrative issue with the Colorado DMV. Every moving violation adds points to your driving record, and once you reach a certain threshold, the DMV will suspend your license.

Here are the thresholds:

• Minor drivers (16–17): 6 points in 12 months, or 7 points total before turning 18
• Minor drivers (18–20): 9 points in 12 months
• Adults 21 and over: 12 points in 12 months, or 18 points in 24 months
• Chauffeurs: 16 points in 12 months, 24 points in 24 months, or 28 points in 48 months

Because a DUI conviction carries 12 points, it is enough to trigger an automatic suspension for almost any driver. For minors, a single DUI virtually guarantees the loss of driving privileges.

Underage DUI Penalties

Colorado enforces a strict “zero tolerance” policy for underage drivers. Any detectable amount of alcohol (BAC of 0.02 or higher) can lead to an Underage Drinking and Driving (UDD) charge. 

Penalties for underage drivers may include:

• Immediate suspension of driving privileges
• Community service requirements
• Mandatory alcohol or drug education programs
• Fines and court costs
• Higher insurance premiums
• Lasting consequences for scholarships, college admissions, and employment

A Message for Parents

If your child is charged with DUI or UDD, the impact goes far beyond the courtroom. A conviction can interfere with college opportunities, athletic scholarships, and future employment. Even losing the ability to drive can make it difficult for a teenager to attend school, hold a part-time job, or participate in extracurricular activities.

At Orr Law Firm, we work directly with parents and young drivers to minimize the damage and protect their future. Our goal is not only to fight the immediate charges but also to safeguard long-term opportunities.

Administrative vs. Criminal Penalties

DUI cases involve two separate processes:

• Administrative Penalties from the DMV may include points, suspension, restricted licenses, and reinstatement fees. These penalties are often immediate and can begin before the criminal case is resolved.
• Criminal Penalties are imposed by the court and may include jail, fines, probation, treatment, and community service.

Because these systems are separate, it is possible to win one hearing and still face penalties from the other. A knowledgeable attorney can help you manage both processes.

Why Legal Representation Matters

A DUI charge in Colorado is not something to face alone. The consequences extend far beyond the immediate penalties. They affect your reputation, finances, relationships, and ability to move forward.

At Orr Law Firm, we provide:

• Aggressive defense strategies tailored to your situation
• Guidance through DMV hearings to protect your license
• Support for parents of minors to help secure their child’s future
• Compassionate representation that treats you as more than just a case file

Our legal team is familiar with local laws, courts, and legal systems in Denver and throughout Colorado. We understand how prosecutors approach these cases, what strategies work in different courtrooms, and how to anticipate challenges before they arise. Most importantly, we are committed to fighting for you with skill, determination, and a focus on protecting your future.

If you or your child is facing DUI charges in Colorado, do not wait. Contact us online or call (303) 747-4247 today to request a consultation.