Understanding Colorado DUI laws is crucial if you drive in the state or have recently been charged with a DUI. Colorado’s rules are strict, and the penalties can affect your license, your finances, and your future. This guide breaks down what you need to know about DUI Colorado statutes, limits, penalties, and more—so you can make informed decisions and protect your rights.
DUI Colorado: What Counts as Driving Under the Influence?
In Colorado, DUI means driving a vehicle while your ability is impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. The law applies whether you’re behind the wheel of a car, truck, motorcycle, or even a bicycle. Police use field sobriety tests, breathalyzers, and blood tests to determine if you’re over the legal limit.
Baker Law Group, PLLC has seen many cases where a simple mistake or misunderstanding led to serious charges. That’s why it’s important to know your rights and the specifics of DUI Colorado law.
Colorado DUI Limit: How Much Is Too Much?
The Colorado DUI limit is clear. For most drivers, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher means you’re over the legal limit. If you’re under 21, the limit drops to just 0.02%. For commercial drivers, the threshold is 0.04%.
But Colorado also enforces DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) laws. You can be charged with DWAI if your BAC is 0.05% or higher—even if you’re under the DUI threshold. Officers may also consider your driving, appearance, and behavior.
Colorado DUI Penalties: What to Expect
Colorado DUI penalties are tough. Even a first offense can bring jail time, fines, and a suspended license. Penalties increase with each additional offense or if there are aggravating factors like high BAC, an accident, or a child in the car.
Jail Time: Ranges from a few days to years, depending on the offense.
Fines: Can reach thousands of dollars.
Community Service: Often required.
License Suspension: Automatic for most DUI convictions.
Ignition Interlock Device: May be required for your car.
Baker Law Group, PLLC helps clients understand the penalties, fight for reduced consequences, and protect their driving privileges.
Is a DUI a Felony in Colorado?
Most DUI charges in Colorado are misdemeanors. However, a fourth DUI or a DUI involving injury or death can be charged as a felony. Felony DUIs bring much harsher penalties, including long-term prison sentences and a permanent criminal record.
Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1301 outlines when a DUI becomes a felony. Baker Law Group, PLLC has the experience to handle both misdemeanor and felony DUI cases, giving clients a strong defense when the stakes are highest.
Do You Lose Your License for First DUI in Colorado?
Yes, you can lose your license for a first DUI in Colorado. The Colorado Department of Revenue will revoke your license if you are convicted or if you refuse a chemical test. The revocation period is usually nine months for a first offense, but early reinstatement is sometimes possible with an ignition interlock device.
Baker Law Group, PLLC works quickly to help clients keep their driving privileges or regain them as soon as possible.
Colorado First DUI Offense: What Happens?
A Colorado first DUI offense brings serious consequences. You may face up to one year in jail, fines up to $1,000, community service, and mandatory alcohol education classes. The court may also require an ignition interlock device. Even if you avoid jail, the conviction stays on your record and affects your insurance rates.
The attorneys at Baker Law Group, PLLC guide clients through every step, from arraignment to DMV hearings, and fight for the best possible outcome.
2nd DUI Colorado: Increased Risks and Penalties
A second DUI in Colorado means higher stakes. Penalties include mandatory jail time (at least 10 days), longer license suspension, higher fines, and more community service. The court will look at your prior record and may impose stricter conditions.
Baker Law Group, PLLC builds strong, strategic defenses for repeat offenders, always working to minimize the impact on your life.
3rd DUI Colorado: What Changes?
A third DUI Colorado conviction brings even tougher penalties. Expect at least 60 days in jail, a two-year license suspension, and steep fines. The court may also require substance abuse treatment and extended use of an ignition interlock device.
With each offense, the consequences get more severe. Baker Law Group, PLLC uses experience and a detail-focused approach to help clients facing multiple DUI charges.
4th DUI Colorado: Felony Consequences
A 4th DUI Colorado conviction is a felony under state law. This means the possibility of years in prison, a long-term loss of driving privileges, and a felony record that can affect your job and housing. The law gives judges less flexibility, so it’s critical to have experienced legal counsel.
Baker Law Group, PLLC stands with clients through the most serious DUI cases, providing aggressive representation and clear guidance.
Can You Get a DUI on a Horse in Colorado?
While it’s unlikely you’ll be charged with DUI for riding a horse, you could still face other charges like public intoxication or reckless endangerment. Colorado’s DUI laws focus on motor vehicles, but it’s always safer to find a sober ride—no matter how many legs it has.
Why Choose Baker Law Group, PLLC for DUI Defense?
Baker Law Group, PLLC stands out for strategy, experience, responsiveness, and results. Our attorneys know Colorado DUI laws inside and out. We challenge every detail—from breathalyzer results to police procedures—and fight for the best possible outcome for every client.
When your future is at stake, you need a team that acts fast, communicates clearly, and never backs down. That’s the Baker Law Group, PLLC difference.
Take Action—Protect Your Rights Today
Colorado DUI laws are strict, but you have options. If you’re facing a DUI charge or want to understand your risks, contact Baker Law Group, PLLC for a confidential consultation. Our team is ready to help you protect your rights, your license, and your future.
