DMV Hearing Defense
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GUSTAFSON LAW OFFICE
Colorado Springs, Colorado    El Paso County
Robert D. Gustafson  *  Attorney at Law  *  Colorado Springs
  COLORADO DMV HEARING - DRIVER LICENSE DEFENSE

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Attorney Vita

ATTORNEY TELEPHONE - NOT DMV
(719) 260-1002
Attorney Fax (719) 260-1003  **  Toll Free (800) 410-1002
Hours Consultation Terms

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Retainer Documents Driving Directions Maps to Attorney Travel * Trade Area * Courts
 
 
COLORADO DRIVER LICENSE DEFENSE
COLORADO DMV HEARING DEFENSE
 

ATTORNEY HOMEPAGE

SUSPENSION * REVOCATION * DENIAL Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Colorado DMV  **  Colorado MVD
Colorado driver's license suspension, revocation or denial defense - Colorado Department of Revenue - DOR PRIVATE ATTORNEY
NOT THE DMV

Colorado Springs Criminal Defense Lawyer and Traffic Defense Lawyer
Attorney Trial Practice 30+ years Colorado State Courts, Colorado Springs Municipal Court, Colorado DMV License Hearings & Appeals

representation inquiries are invited & most welcome ** questions from public seeking free advice or information declined ** first consultation terms
 attorney does not accept installment payments  *  full payment is due at the time attorney is retained  *  major charge cards accepted
 

WEBPAGE INDEX

 

DMV Address and Phone Numbers SUSPENSION  REVOCATION  DENIAL
General Information * Hearing Procedure
ADVERSE ACTION - ALCOHOL RELATED
All Drivers - BAC Refusal Revocation
Refusal - Chemical Testing
Excessive Alcohol Adult Revocation
BAC .08 - .169  *  BAC .17 or Greater
Alcohol Excessive BAC Plus
Point Suspension
Alcohol Chemical Test Refusal Plus
Point Suspension
Alcohol Related Convictions
Habitual Offender
Excessive Alcohol * Refusal
Alcohol Conviction * Out of Service

Commercial Driver License - CDL
Alcohol Driving Offenses
Alcohol Convictions within 5 Years
Alcohol Driving Offenses
Alcohol Convictions Within Lifetime
Alcohol Conviction - "Baby DUI"
Minor Driver or Provisional Driver
Underage Excessive Alcohol "Baby DEAC"
Underage Driver Revocation
Alcohol Conviction - Underage DUI
Minor Driver or Provisional Driver
Alcohol Conviction - Underage MIP
Minor - Possession - Consumption

DMV Appeals

ADVERSE ACTION - NON-ALCOHOL
Excessive Points Suspension
non-alcohol
Potential Defenses
non-alcohol
OJW Suspension
outstanding judgment warrant
Habitual Offender Revocation
non-alcohol
POTENTIAL DEFENSES
Penalty Assessment Traffic Infractions
SUSPENSION, REVOCATION OR DENIAL - DURATION
   
Base Periods of Point Suspension
   
Base Periods
Other Suspension Revocation or Denial
 ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS  Do I Need an Attorney? Insurance Related Actions

Interlock Vendors

Installation & Monitoring

Driving Under Restraint

ATTORNEY POLICIES
 Cases Outside Colorado Springs - Travel
 No Pro Bono Assistance  *  No Installment Payment
 Legal Advice Limited to Clients - Not General Public
 Representation Now - Another Attorney or Self
 Attorney Representation & Declined Matters
 Post Hearing - Appeal to District Court or Court of Appeals
 
OUT OF STATE RESTRAINED DRIVERS SEEKING COLORADO LICENSE if you are not a Colorado legal resident
please do not call the attorney regarding probationary license eligibility

 

 
 
Colorado driver license defense, Colorado DMV hearing defense, suspension, revocation or denial
Colorado Department of Revenue DOR, Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles, Colorado DMV, DOR, Colorado MVD, Colorado Springs Attorney
 
           Related DMV Information * Legal Representation * Traffic Defense * Gustafson Law Office  

TRAFFIC DEFENSE

DUI - DWAI - DEAC  *  Driving Under Restraint  *  No Operator's License  *  Speeding DMV DEFENSE DMV Appeal
Speed Contest - Drag Racing  *  Eluding Police  *  Hit & Run  *  Compulsory Insurance License Hearings * Point Structure * Forms
Reckless Driving - Careless Driving  *    *  Weaving - Roadways Laned for Traffic Habitual Offender  *  Interstate Compact
Minor - Alcohol Red Light - Stop Sign  *  Traffic Definitions  *  Traffic Infraction vs. Crime  *  Traffic Cams Insurance SR-22 Interlock  Driving Records

DRIVING PRIVILEGES
SUSPENSION  *  REVOCATION  *  DENIAL
GENERAL INFORMATION & HEARING PROCEDURE
 

Loss of Colorado driving privileges, probationary license, interlock and reinstatement are complex issues with multiple variables.  A substantial amount of information is contained within this webpage for educational purpose only.  Information is contained relative to common license actions, but it is not possible to address all possible permutations.  Do not rely upon information contained herein - contact Colorado DMV Driver Control License Reinstatement Section to determine status of Colorado driving privileges, probationary license eligibility, interlock eligibility & reinstatement requirements.

 

        Driving PrivilegeIn Colorado, driving is a privilege, not a right, and most of us take our driving privileges for granted.  Places are much further away than we realize when we have access to a vehicle.  Driver's license or Colorado driving privileges may be taken for one or more of the below identified reasons. This list is not intended to be exhaustive - just highlight the most common reasons.  

 

        DOR Overview.  The Department of Revenue is an administrative agency created by statute.  It has no more or less power than granted by the legislature.  Many functions are mandatory pursuant to statute; the DOR has discretion only when granted by statute.  The DOR has also promulgated rules and regulations; some are linked in this website.

 

        DOR Hearing Structure Hearings regarding Colorado license or Colorado driving privileges loss occur in DOR district offices across the state.  The hearing officer is actually employed not by the DMV, but by the Colorado Department of Revenue, Hearing and Appeals Division.  This is a branch of the Colorado Department of Revenue which is separate and distinct from the DMV.  Drivers commonly believe the Colorado license or Colorado driving privileges has been suspended, revoked or denied by the DMV, so that is the phraseology which is used in this webpage and the DMV Appeals webpage.

 

        Statutory Basis - License Loss.  The respondent's driver license or Colorado driving privileges are in jeopardy on the basis of a particular statute. e.g.
                a.) CRS 42-2-127 points
                b.) CRS 42-2-126 excessive alcohol or refusing a chemical test
                c.) CRS 42-2-125 multiple alcohol offense convictions, MIP, baby DUI
                d.)
CRS 42-2-201 et. seq. - habitual offender
                e.) CRS 42-2-127.7 compulsory insurance
        If the criteria of the particular underlying statute are are met, the driver license will be suspended, revoked or denied.

 

        Rules Governing Hearing.  DMV hearings are conducted pursuant to CRS 24-4-105, the Colorado Administrative Procedures Act (APA).  In some circumstances, conduct or rules of the hearing are are provided in a specific statute.  e.g. refusing a chemical test or excessive alcohol content revocation CRS 42-2-126.  DOR regulations also apply regarding conduct of hearings.  Under the relaxed rules of the APA, hearsay is admissible, including multiple levels of hearsay.  This is unfavorable to the respondent driver.

 

        Setting Hearings.  In hearings such as excessive alchohol or refusing a chemical test, the adverse action is effective immediately upon service of notice, with the right to request a hearing within 7 days from service of the notice of adverse action.  In such circumstances, the respondent driver may request the presence of the arresting officer at hearing.  In other circumstances such as points, notice is sent to the driver.  Hearing date has been scheduled and is identified in the notice.  In yet other circumstances such as driving under restraint, notice of adverse action is sent to the driver.  DMV has already taken the adverse action which is mandated by Colorado law CRS 42-2-138, and the driver is simply notified of the action.  DUR = 1 additional year loss to run consecutively with any other adverse action.  In such circumstance, a hearing may also be requested upon receipt of notice.

 

        Subpoena.  In criminal & traffic court cases, attorneys may issue a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum (document production) and no particular form is required.  In DOR hearing actions, statutes and DOR regulations require that a subpoena or subpoena duces tecum may only be issued by the DOR hearing officer & that it must be upon a DOR form.

Only Denver DOR Hearings & Appeals may issue a subpoena, not a local DOR hearing officer. 

Under law applicable to excessive alcohol or refusing a chemical test, hearings, the DOR is only required to give 10 days advance notice of hearing and a subpoena must be served upon a law enforcement officer no later than 5 calendar days in advance of hearing.  CRS 42-2-126(8)(e)(I),(II) 

If at the time of hearing request the driver fails to request the presence of the law enforcement officer, it can be quite difficult to get a subpoena issued and served under this rule. 

If the law enforcement officer under subpoena is unable to attend, he or she may notify the DOR & a continuance will be granted, which may be outside the 60 day statute of limitations.  If a driver or his/her attorney is unable to attend, he or she may notify the DOR, however a continuance will only be granted upon good cause shown and the new hearing date must be within the 60 day statute of limitations.  If the hearing date is near the limitation period - no extension will be granted to the driver for any reason. 

In a criminal case, the state has some advantages and defense has some advantages.  The two sides are essentially balanced walking into hearing or trial.  The above are a few of the reasons publishing attorney believes DOR hearings are fundamentally unfair in favor of the state - the deck is stacked against the respondent driver in license hearings.

 

        Conduct of Hearing.  Hearings are generally conducted in a regular looking office with the DOR hearing officer seated behind the desk.  The Law enforcement officer frequently sits beside the desk with the respondent driver & counsel or witness seated opposite the hearing officer in front of the desk.  The hearing is recorded.  The recorder continues even if the hearing officer leaves the room, so care must be taken to avoid candid remarks or statements as no privacy exists.  The hearing officer will identify himself and have each person in the room identify himself or herself for the record.  The hearing officer will identify the allegations - reason for the hearing.  Witnesses, if any, are sworn and the hearing officer proceeds to take testimony and accept exhibits from a law enforcement officer if one is present.  Respondent driver is afforded an opportunity to cross examine the law enforcement officer, and to subsequently offer his or her own witnesses, self testimony or exhibits.  At conclusion of testimony, an opportunity is afforded for closing statement and the hearing officer then enters a ruling.

        Burden of Proof.  The burden of proof is upon the state by a preponderance of the evidence.  CRS 42-2-126, Schocke v. Colorado Department of Revenue, 719 P.2d 361 (Colo.App. 1986).

If ruling is in favor of the driver, the license is returned and the case concluded. 

If ruling is in favor of the state, the license or any temporary permit is seized and the hearing provides a copy of the suspension, revocation or denial order to the driver.  The hearing officer may advise the driver regarding potential penalties for driving under restraint, but is not required to do so.

The hearing officer will typically present the original order to the driver and request the driver to sign the order acknowledging receipt.  When present, publishing attorney makes a statement on the record that he acknowledges receipt on behalf of the client, but advises the client not to execute the DOR order.  No sense giving the DOR evidence for subsequent use in a driving under restraint prosecution.  Hearing officers do not get excited when a driver states: "I respectfully decline execution based upon advice of counsel."  Don't sign the DOR order.

 

        Right to Appeal.  If the Colorado driver license or Colorado driving privileges are suspended, revoked or denied, please refer to the DMV Appeals webpage for appellate information.
        Limited time exists to appeal.

 

        Penalties and Procedure Plea bargaining is not available - at the DMV hearing a driver wins or loses.

In many circumstances, the period of suspension, revocation or denial is statutory and the hearing officer has no discretion.  Several statutory periods are stated below; no shorter and no longer.  Regarding point suspension, hearing officer discretion exists as to length of driving privilege loss.

The DMV may have the statutory power to grant a probationary license.   If the DOR has that power, whether the limited driving privileges are granted or not is within the discretion of the hearing officer.  If statutory authority does not exist, no discretion exists for the DOR hearing officer.

For alcohol offenses, insurance offense and some other circumstances, to become reinstated the driver must file SR-22 proof of insurance. This is expensive high risk insurance, check with an independent insurance agent regarding cost.

DMV revocation for excessive alcohol content or refusing a chemical test is independent of any underlying alcohol criminal charges; even if the alcohol criminal case is dismissed, it will not affect a DMV license revocation order. 

Other DMV adverse actions are dependent upon valid conviction before the DMV may suspend, revoke or deny.

Where adverse actions are based upon prior convictions, relevant periods are computed from date of offense to date of offense - conviction dates are not relevant.

 

        Application for Driver License in Another StateIf driving privileges are under suspension, revocation or denial at the time a driver makes application for a new license in another state, the driver will not be issued a license out of state until the Colorado hold is cleared.  If application is made in Colorado during a period of suspension, revocation or denial, the driver be charged with a separate jailable major traffic offense simply for making the application.  Refer to National Records and False Information - Interstate Compact page

SELECTED STATUTES

SUSPENSION  *  REVOCATION  *  DENIAL  *  PROBATIONARY LICENSE  *  INTERLOCK  *  LIMITED TRAFFIC CHARGES
refer to link for verbatim statutes - statutes may have been amended since published herein

ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS

2008 Pending DUI License & Interlock Legislation  House Bill 08-1194

 

REFUSAL TO SUBMIT TO BLOOD OR BREATH TESTING

 
REVOCATION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE  
ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-126(2)(a)(II)  BAC Refusal Revocation or Denial

 
 
 
 

BASIC INFORMATION

ELEMENTS PERIOD OF LOSS
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
First Offense or Revocation
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
Second or Subsequent Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
First Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
Second or Subsequent Offense or Revocation

 

        General Information - BAC Refusal:  Chemical testing refusal - no 2 hour time limit - refusal may have occurred outside the excessive alcohol 2 hour time limit
        If a driver refuses to submit to breath or blood chemical testing, the driver should receive a notice of revocation or denial at the time of arrest or receipt of the summons and complaint(s) - tickets. This is usually on a yellow piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". From date of receipt, the driver has
7 days to ask for a hearing. If the driver asks within that time, the driver will receive a hearing to determine whether driving privileges should be revoked or denied. If the driver fails to ask within 7 days, the driver has waived (forfeited - given up) the right to such a hearing, and driving privileges automatically will be revoked or denied for the period indicated below.
CRS 42-2-126. When the driver requests a hearing, he / she should demand that the officer be ordered to appear. Otherwise, the determination will be on the basis of written reports submitted by the officer.

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - BAC Refusal     note - other defenses may exist
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver of a motor vehicle within the State of Colorado and within the jurisdiction of the law enforcement officer
        2.  The law enforcement officer had reasonable suspicion to stop or otherwise come in contact with the driver
        3.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to believe the driver drove a motor vehicle while he or she was under the influence of or impaired alcohol or drug
                        this is tantamount to: the law enforcement officer had probable cause to to invoke Colorado express consent law
        4.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to and did request a chemical test of the driver's blood or breath pursuant to Colorado express consent law
        5.  The driver refused to submit to a chemical test of his blood or breath.  Refusal may be by oral statement, behavior or physical manifestation.
        6.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - BAC Refusal

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - BAC Refusal
  First refusal revocation: 1 year CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(III)  
  Second refusal revocation: 2 years CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IV)  
  Third or subsequent refusal revocation: 3 years CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(VII)  
b. Probationary License - BAC Refusal Revocation - interim restricted license during restraint
    red license to drive back and forth to work or on the job or other locations or activities approved by DMV - limited purpose license

Probationary License - First Revocation - BAC Refusal

Eligibility.  not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-126(7)(a) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year. The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

None

refer to reinstatement interlock information below (other adverse action may impose interlock)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b(II)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: If point suspension or other adverse action is imposed following the first year non eligibility for probationary license, the risk thereafter likely justifies application  Nevertheless, refer to Probationary License and Interlock Warning.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

Probationary License - Second or Subsequent Revocation - BAC Refusal

Eligibility.  not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-126(7)(a) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

Yes

refer to reinstatement interlock information below & to persistent drunk driver  (consecutive)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b(II)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: Where BAC .017 or greater, multiple offense convictions or multiple alcohol related revocations bring persistent drunk driver (PDD) into play, the driver will be required to maintain a interlock for two (2) years following reinstatement under a restricted probationary license, so if eligible, early reinstatement is not really increasing the driver's risk of early reinstatement probationary license suspension or cancellation.  Put another way, if PDD is applicable, early reinstatement risk is the least of your worries - request interlock early reinstatement when eligible.  Nevertheless, refer to Probationary License and Interlock Warning.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years
c. Reinstatement Information - BAC Refusal:
  Reinstatement - First Revocation - BAC Refusal   refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement  
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office    
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  no requirement
4.  Insurance Requirement - BAC Refusal - First Revocation

Insurance - BAC Refusal - First Revocation - First Revocation - No Accident

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

1 year or period of license restriction  
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(I)

Insurance - BAC Refusal - First Revocation - First Revocation - Accident Involved

Type of Insurance.

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)
5.  Education required for reinstatement   CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(I)(A)
  Level II Alcohol Education: proof of enrollment or alcohol certification for reinstatement required
   Alcohol Therapy
 
 
 
not required unless prior alcohol related conviction
No Prior Conviction or Revocation:
refer to grids for level of alcohol education
alcohol certification for reinstatement
Prior Conviction or Revocation:
68 Hours in not less than 8 months
proof of enrollment

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  Reinstatement - Second or Subsequent Revocation - BAC Refusal   refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement  
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  2 years - refer to persistent drunk driver   CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
4.  Insurance Requirement - BAC Refusal - Second or Subsequent Revocation

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)
5.  Education required for reinstatement  
    
CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(II), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(I)(A), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B), persistent drunk driver CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
  Level II Alcohol Education proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
   Alcohol Therapy
 
proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
Prior Conviction or Revocation: 68 Hours in not less than 8 months

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL CONTENT
BAC .08 - .169

REVOCATION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-126(2)(a)(I)  Adult Excessive Alcohol BAC Revocation or Denial

BASIC INFORMATION

ELEMENTS PERIOD OF LOSS
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
First Offense or Revocation
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
Second or Subsequent Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
First Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
Second or Subsequent Offense or Revocation
 
 
 
 

 

 

On May 5, 2004 Colorado Legislature House Bill 04-1021 lowered the BAC limit from 0.10 to 0.08 regarding DUI presumption, DEAC threshold and driver's license excessive alcohol revocation.  Law effective date: July 1, 2004

        General Information - BAC .08 - .169:  BAC 0.08 or greater as tested within 2 hours of driving.  If relevant, refer below for BAC 0.17 or greater
        If a driver's breath or blood alcohol concentration was .08 or greater as tested within 2 hours from the time of driving, the driver should receive a notice of revocation or denial of driving privileges. Breath test results are instant, and usually the notice of revocation or denial is received at the time of arrest. This is usually on a yellow piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". Blood tests take up to 15 days to obtain results; the driver should receive a notice of revocation or denial by certified mail in 3 to 6 weeks. This is usually on a white piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". From date of receipt, the driver has
7 days to ask for a hearing. If the driver asks within that time, a hearing will be set to determine whether driving privileges should be revoked or denied. If the driver fails to ask within 7 days, the driver has waived (forfeited - given up) the right to such a hearing, and driving privileges automatically will be revoked or denied for the period indicated below. CRS 42-2-126. When the driver requests a hearing, he / she should demand that the officer be ordered to appear. Otherwise, the determination will be on the basis of written reports submitted by the officer.

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - BAC .08 - .169     note - other defenses may exist
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver of a motor vehicle within the State of Colorado and within the jurisdiction of the law enforcement officer
        2.  The law enforcement officer had reasonable suspicion to stop or otherwise come in contact with the driver
        3.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to believe the driver drove a motor vehicle while he or she was under the influence of or impaired alcohol or drug
                        this is tantamount to: the law enforcement officer had probable cause to to invoke Colorado express consent law
        4.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to and did request a chemical test of the driver's blood or breath pursuant to Colorado express consent law
        5.  The driver submitted to a chemical test within two (2) hours of driving
        6.  The breath or blood chemical test substantially complied with
Colorado Department of Health Regulations
        7.  The results of the breath or blood chemical test were equal to or greater than 0.08 grams of alcohol per 100 ml blood or per 210 liters of breath
        8.  BAC threshold level for presumption state chemical test presumption : 0.096 or more  (no scientific basis or justification for presumption, but legislative)
        9.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .08 - .169

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - BAC .08 - .169
  First revocation: 9 months CRS 42-2-126(3)(a)(II)(A) - violation after 1/1/2009 Note - 3 months violation before 1/1/2009
  Second or revocation: 1 year CRS 42-2-126(3)(a)(II)(B) - violation after 1/1/2009 Note - 1 year loss - violation before 1/1/2009
  Third or subsequent revocation: 2 years CRS 42-2-126(3)(a)(II)(C) - violation after 1/1/2009 Note - 1 year loss - violation before 1/1/2009

b. Probationary License - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .08 - .169 - interim restricted license during restraint
       
"red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria

Probationary License - First Revocation - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .08 - .169
If relevant refer to BAC 0.17 or Greater

Eligibility.  First revocation - After thirty (30) days, a Colorado driver may be eligible for early reinstatement with a restricted license (interlock).  CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IX)(A.5), CRS 42-2-132(1.5)(a)(I). 

          Interlock is required for early reinstatement with a probationary license.  The interlock restriction would continue until reinstated; minimum duration - eight (8) month balance of nine (9) month revocation.  However, if the interlock device report shows no violations for a period of four (4) months, the driver may apply for an unrestricted license (no interlock - regular adult license).  CRS 42-2-132(1.5)(a)(II)  If the DMV determines the driver is eligible for a license without restriction, it is required to send notice of eligibility.  Any driver who is eligible for a Colorado driver license without restriction may request a hearing to remove the interlock restriction.

          Restricted interlock license may only be issued to a Colorado resident who is otherwise eligible for a Colorado driver license.  Restricted license is not available to an out of state resident or to a driver who is licensed in a state other than Colorado.

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

None

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

Yes

refer to probationary license interlock information above - interlock requirement

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  Period of equal to that of restraint, up to a maximum of 3 years - period of restraint = 9 months SR-22 requirement

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II), CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(I)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: Attorney advises his clients not to convert the 3 month revocation to a one month revocation followed by an additional 5 months suspension with probationary license.  Refer to Probationary License Warning If point suspension or other adverse action is imposed to increase the period of license loss, the risk may justify application for a probationary license.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

Probationary License - Second or Subsequent Revocation - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .08 - .169
Persistent Drunk Driver

Eligibility.  NOT ELIGIBLE for interim probationary license (red license to drive back and forth to work or on the job) during the first year; thereafter eligible.  Refer to persistent drunk driver   CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)  If relevant refer to BAC 0.17 or Greater

After the first year, the DOR hearing officer has discretion whether or not to grant interlock probationary license. 
        CRS 42-2-116,
CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IX)(A.5)

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-126(7)(a) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

Yes

refer to reinstatement interlock information  below & to persistent drunk driver  (consecutive)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: Where BAC .017 or greater, multiple offense convictions or multiple alcohol related revocations bring persistent drunk driver (PDD) into play, the driver will be required to maintain a interlock for two (2) years following reinstatement under a restricted probationary license, so if eligible, early reinstatement is not really increasing the driver's risk of early reinstatement probationary license suspension or cancellation.  Put another way, if PDD is applicable, early reinstatement risk is the least of your worries - request interlock early reinstatement when eligible.  Nevertheless, refer to Probationary License and Interlock Warning.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

c. Reinstatement Information - BAC .08 - .169
  First Revocation - Reinstatement - BAC .08 - .169   refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  can not required.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  no requirement unless probationary - interlock license requested & issued
4.  Insurance Requirement:

Insurance - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .08 - .169 - First Revocation - No Accident

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

9 months or period of license restriction, not to exceed 3 years
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(I)

Insurance - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .08 - .169 - First Revocation - Accident Involved

Type of Insurance.

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)

Insurance - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .08 - .169 - First Revocation - Early Reinstatement

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period

period of probationary license (usually 8 months) + 9 months statutory
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(I)
5.  Education required for reinstatement   CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
  Level I or II Alcohol Education
 
 
 
proof of enrollment or alcohol certification for reinstatement required

No Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation:
refer to grids for level of alcohol education
alcohol certification for reinstatement

Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation:
68 Hours in not less than 8 months
proof of enrollment

   Alcohol Therapy
 
 
 
not required unless prior alcohol related conviction
No Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation:
refer to grids for level of alcohol education
alcohol certification for reinstatement
Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation:
68 Hours in not less than 8 months
proof of enrollment

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  Second or Subsequent Revocation - Reinstatement - BAC .08 - .169   refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement    
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  2 years - refer to persistent drunk driver   CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
4.  Insurance Requirement - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .08 - .169 - Second or Subsequent Revocation

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)
5.  Education required for reinstatement  
     CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(II), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B),
persistent drunk driver CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
  Level II Alcohol Education proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
   Alcohol Therapy
 
proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation: 68 Hours in not less than 8 months

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL CONTENT
BAC .17 or Greater -
PERSISTENT DRUNK DRIVER

REVOCATION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-126 §§ (2)(a)(I) & (7)(c)(II)  Adult Excessive Alcohol BAC Revocation or Denial

BASIC INFORMATION

ELEMENTS PERIOD OF LOSS
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
First Offense or Revocation
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
Second or Subsequent Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
First Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
Second or Subsequent Offense or Revocation
 
 
 
 

 

 

        General Information - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .17 or Greater:  BAC 0.08 or greater as tested within 2 hours of driving - refer to below reinstatement information for BAC 0.17 aggravator
        If a driver's breath or blood alcohol concentration was .08 or greater as tested within 2 hours from the time of driving, the driver should receive a notice of revocation or denial of driving privileges. Breath test results are instant, and usually the notice of revocation or denial is received at the time of arrest. This is usually on a yellow piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". Blood tests take up to 15 days to obtain results; the driver should receive a notice of revocation or denial by certified mail in 3 to 6 weeks. This is usually on a white piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". From date of receipt, the driver has
7 days to ask for a hearing. If the driver asks within that time, a hearing will be set to determine whether driving privileges should be revoked or denied. If the driver fails to ask within 7 days, the driver has waived (forfeited - given up) the right to such a hearing, and driving privileges automatically will be revoked or denied for the period indicated below. CRS 42-2-126. When the driver requests a hearing, he / she should demand that the officer be ordered to appear. Otherwise, the determination will be on the basis of written reports submitted by the officer.

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .17 or Greater     note - other defenses may exist
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver of a motor vehicle within the State of Colorado and within the jurisdiction of the law enforcement officer
        2.  The law enforcement officer had reasonable suspicion to stop or otherwise come in contact with the driver
        3.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to believe the driver drove a motor vehicle while he or she was under the influence of or impaired alcohol or drug
                        this is tantamount to: the law enforcement officer had probable cause to to invoke Colorado express consent law
        4.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to and did request a chemical test of the driver's blood or breath pursuant to Colorado express consent law
        5.  The driver submitted to a chemical test within two (2) hours of driving
        6.  The breath or blood chemical test substantially complied with
Colorado Department of Health Regulations
        7.  The results of the breath or blood chemical test were equal to or greater that 0.08 grams of alcohol per 100 ml blood or per 210 liters of breath - revocation
        8.  BAC threshold level for presumption state chemical test presumption : 0.096 or more  (no scientific basis or justification for presumption, but legislative)
        9.  To support the
persistent drunk driver enhancement, the results of the breath or blood chemical test mush have been equal to or greater than 0.17 grams of alcohol per 100 ml blood or per 210 liters of breath
       10.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .17 or Greater

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .17 or Greater
  First revocation: 9 months CRS 42-2-126(3)(a)(II)(A) - violation after 1/1/2009 Note - 3 months violation before 1/1/2009
  Second or revocation: 1 year CRS 42-2-126(3)(a)(II)(B) - violation after 1/1/2009 Note - 1 year loss - violation before 1/1/2009
  Third or subsequent revocation: 2 years CRS 42-2-126(3)(a)(II)(C) - violation after 1/1/2009 Note - 1 year loss - violation before 1/1/2009

b. Probationary License - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .17 or Greater - interim restricted license during restraint
       
"red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria

Probationary License - First Revocation - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .17 or Greater
Persistent Drunk Driver

Eligibility.  First revocation - After thirty (30) days, a Colorado driver may be eligible for early reinstatement with a restricted license (interlock).  CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IX)(A.5), CRS 42-2-132(1.5)(a)(I).

          Interlock is required for early reinstatement with a probationary license.  The interlock restriction would continue until reinstated; minimum duration - eight (8) month balance of nine (9) month revocation.  However, if the interlock device report shows no violations for a period of four (4) months, the driver may apply for an unrestricted license (no interlock - regular adult license).  CRS 42-2-132(1.5)(a)(II)  If the DMV determines the driver is eligible for a license without restriction, it is required to send notice of eligibility.  Any driver who is eligible for a Colorado driver license without restriction may request a hearing to remove the interlock restriction.

          Restricted interlock license may only be issued to a Colorado resident who is otherwise eligible for a Colorado driver license.  Restricted license is not available to an out of state resident or to a driver who is licensed in a state other than Colorado.

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

Yes

refer to reinstatement interlock information below & to persistent drunk driver  (consecutive)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: Where BAC .017 or greater brings persistent drunk driver (PDD) into play, the driver will be required to maintain a interlock for two (2) years following reinstatement under a restricted probationary license, so if eligible, early reinstatement is not really increasing the driver's risk of early reinstatement probationary license suspension or cancellation.  Put another way, where PDD is applicable, early reinstatement risk is the least of your worries - request interlock early reinstatement when eligible.  Nevertheless, refer to Probationary License and Interlock Warning.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

Probationary License - Second or Subsequent Revocation - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .17 or Greater
Persistent Drunk Driver

Eligibility.  NOT ELIGIBLE for interim probationary license (red license to drive back and forth to work or on the job) during the first year; thereafter eligible.  Refer to persistent drunk driver   CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)  If relevant refer to BAC 0.08 - .0169

After the first year, the DOR hearing officer has discretion whether or not to grant interlock probationary license. 
        CRS 42-2-116,
CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IX)(A.5)

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-126(7)(a) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

Yes

refer to reinstatement interlock information below & to persistent drunk driver  (consecutive)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: Where BAC .017 or greater, multiple offense convictions or multiple alcohol related revocations bring persistent drunk driver (PDD) into play, the driver will be required to maintain a interlock for two (2) years following reinstatement under a restricted probationary license, so if eligible, early reinstatement is not really increasing the driver's risk of early reinstatement probationary license suspension or cancellation.  Put another way, if PDD is applicable, early reinstatement risk is the least of your worries - request interlock early reinstatement when eligible.  Nevertheless, refer to Probationary License and Interlock Warning.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

  c. Reinstatement Information - BAC 0.17 or Greater    
  First Revocation - Reinstatement - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .17 or Greater  
        refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  2 years - refer to persistent drunk driver   CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
4.  Insurance Requirement - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC 0.17 or Greater - Persistent Drunk Driver Revocation

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B), CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II), CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)

5.  Education required for reinstatement   CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(II), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B)

  Level II Alcohol Education: proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
    Alcohol Therapy
 
 
 
proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
BAC .17 No Prior Conviction or Revocation:
52 hours of therapy in not less than 6 months
proof of enrollment
BAC .17 Prior Conviction or Revocation:
86 Hours in not less than 10 months
proof of enrollment

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  Second or Subsequent Revocation - Reinstatement  - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC .17 or Greater
        refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
   
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  2 years - refer to persistent drunk driver   CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
4.  Insurance Requirement - Excessive Alcohol Revocation BAC 0.17 or Greater - Persistent Drunk Driver Revocation

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B), CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II), CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)
5.  Education required for reinstatement   CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(II), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B)
  Level II Alcohol Education proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
  Alcohol Therapy 
 
proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
BAC .17 Prior Conviction or Revocation: 86 Hours in not less than 10 months

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

POINT SUSPENSION
PLUS
EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL BAC .08 - .169 through
BAC .17 or Greater -
PERSISTENT DRUNK DRIVER

 
SUSPENSION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE  
ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-127 Point Suspension or Denial  &  CRS 42-2-126 BAC Revocation or Denial

 

       General Information - Point Suspension Plus Excessive Alcohol Revocation
                This section refers to point suspension under CRS 42-2-127 in addition to excessive alcohol revocation under CRS 42-2-126.
                If relevant, refer to 2 Alcohol Offense Convictions in 5 Years or 3 Alcohol Offense Convictions in Lifetime

Adult, chauffeur, provisional and minor drivers' licenses have different numbers of points over different periods of time which result in suspension.  Please refer to the Point Structure page to determine age categorization and points which cause suspension.    If relevant, refer to chauffeur.

Excessive alcohol revocation under CRS 42-2-126 can occur for multiple reasons

 

Excessive Alcohol Adult Driver Revocation - BAC .08 - .169
Excessive Alcohol Adult Driver Revocation - BAC .17 or Greater
Underage Excessive Alcohol "Baby DEAC"  Underage Driver Revocation
 

        Point suspension is mandatory pursuant to CRS 42-2-127 if sufficient points have accrued to the driver.  Upon receipt of conviction transcript from the court, the DMV will automatically send notice of hearing to the driver via regular U.S. Mail.  Hearing will be held in the DMV district office closest to the residence of the driver.  Hearing procedure: CRS 42-2-127§§ (7)(13).         

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven - Point Suspension Plus Excessive Alcohol Revocation
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of each
underlying traffic offense or infraction and was revoked for excessive alcohol
        2.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon one or more of the underlying convictions.
        4.  Defense 3 Colorado DMV Appeal from the underlying
alcohol revocation and stay of execution or restraining order in the District Court appeal case.
        5.  Refer to
potential defenses for other defensive arguments.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        6.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation or suspension

Relevant Information - Point Suspension Plus Excessive Alcohol Revocation

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - Point Suspension Plus Excessive Alcohol Revocation
  Point suspensions have different base periods.  
  1 year Statutory point suspension period is mandatory 12 months for conviction of DUI, habitual user or DEAC (BAC 0.08 or above).  
   

DWAI is not included in the mandatory statutory point suspension period, but it is likely DOR hearing officer discretion will be 12 months - DWAI aggravator

 

 
  6 months Regulatory base period for non-alcohol point suspension  
  3 months Regulatory discretionary minimum period for non-alcohol point suspension  
  1 year Regulatory discretionary maximum period for non-alcohol point suspension  
    By definition, an alcohol related conviction is contributing to point suspension under circumstances here - 12 months suspension
  Excessive alcohol revocation under CRS 42-2-126 have different base periods
    Excessive Alcohol Adult Driver Revocation - BAC .08 - .169
Excessive Alcohol Adult Driver Revocation - BAC .17 or Greater
Underage Excessive Alcohol "Baby DEAC"  Underage Driver Revocation
 

Suspension period for excessive points runs concurrent (at the same time) with excessive alcohol revocation.  CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(I)  That means the periods of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial would run simultaneously, and period of any elapsed revocation will be deducted from point suspension.  e.g. If the 3 month revocation for first excessive alcohol BAC 0.08 - 0.169 has elapsed prior to the point suspension being imposed, credit will be given for "time served" during the excessive alcohol revocation - 12 month suspension would be reduced by the 3 months revocation served to a net remaining suspension imposition of 9 months.

 

CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(I)  Where a license is revoked under subparagraph (I), (I.5), (III), or (IV) of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section (reference information - all revocations for chemical test excessive alcohol) and the person is also convicted on criminal charges arising out of the same occurrence for a violation of CRS 42-4-1301(1)(a) or (2), both the revocation under this section and any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial which results from such conviction shall be imposed, but the periods shall run concurrently, and the total period of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial shall not exceed the longer of the two periods.

b. Probationary License - Point Suspension Plus Excessive Alcohol Revocation - interim restricted license during restraint
  Eligibility determined by excessive alcohol revocation - links below.
"red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria
 
 
Adult Revocation BAC 0.08 - 0.169 - refer to Interim License Excessive Alcohol Revocation
Adult Revocation BAC 0.17 or greater - refer to Interim License Persistent Drunk Driver
Minor Revocation 0.021 - 0.79 - refer to Underage Interim License Baby DEAC
 
  Regarding probationary license restrictions & requirements, refer to reinstatement below    (interlock - if relevant - consecutive)  
   

If the underlying excessive alcohol revocation is not eligible during the first year for probationary license, thereafter the driver would be eligible.  Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-125(5) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

 
 

Probationary License During Point Suspension After Alcohol Revocation

 
 

        CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(I) If there is no other statutory reason for denial of a probationary license, any individual who has had a license suspended by the department because of, at least in part, a conviction of an offense specified in paragraph (b) of subsection (5) of this section may be entitled to a probationary license pursuant to subsection (12) of this section (reference information - DUI, DWAI, DEAC, Baby DUI Underage BAC 0.02 - 0.05) for the purpose of driving for reasons of employment, education, health, or alcohol and drug education or treatment, but:
                        (A) If ordered by the court that convicted the individual, the individual shall be enrolled in a program of driving education or alcohol and drug education and treatment certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse in the department of human services; and
                        (B) If the individual is a persistent drunk driver, as defined in CRS 42-1-102(68.5), any probationary license shall require the use of an approved ignition interlock device, as defined in CRS 42-2-132.5(7)(a), and the time that the individual holds a probationary license under this section shall not be credited against the time that the individual may be required to hold a restricted license pursuant to section 42-2-132.5.

 
c. Revocation - Reinstatement Information - Point Suspension Plus Excessive Alcohol Revocation
              
refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement

Regarding application for reinstatement, written and driving tests, mandatory interlock, Insurance Requirement or alcohol education, refer to:
        Reinstatement Requirements -
Excessive Alcohol Adult Driver Revocation - BAC .08 - .169
        Reinstatement Requirements - Excessive Alcohol Adult Driver Revocation - BAC .17 or Greater
        Reinstatement Requirements - Underage Excessive Alcohol "Baby DEAC"  Underage Driver Revocation

  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

POINT SUSPENSION
PLUS
REFUSAL TO SUBMIT TO BLOOD OR BREATH TESTING

 
SUSPENSION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE
 
ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-127 Point Suspension or Denial  &  CRS 42-2-126 BAC Revocation or Denial

 

       General Information - Point Suspension Plus BAC Chemical Testing Refusal Revocation
                This section refers to point suspension under CRS 42-2-127 in addition to revocation for refusal of chemical testing under CRS 42-2-126.
                If relevant, refer to 2 Alcohol Offense Convictions in 5 Years or 3 Alcohol Offense Convictions in Lifetime

Adult, chauffeur, provisional and minor drivers' licenses have different numbers of points over different periods of time which result in suspension.  Please refer to the Point Structure page to determine age categorization and points which cause suspension.  If relevant, refer to chauffeur.

        Point suspension is mandatory pursuant to CRS 42-2-127 if sufficient points have accrued to the driver.  Upon receipt of conviction transcript from the court, the DMV will automatically send notice of hearing to the driver via regular U.S. Mail.  Hearing will be held in the DMV district office closest to the residence of the driver.  Hearing procedure: CRS 42-2-127§§ (7)(13).     

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven - Point Suspension Plus BAC Chemical Testing Refusal Revocation
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of each
underlying traffic offense or infraction and was revoked for excessive alcohol
        2.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon one or more of the underlying convictions.
        4.  Defense 3 Colorado DMV Appeal from the underlying
chemical test refusal revocation & stay of execution or restraining order in the District Court appeal case.
        5.  Refer to
potential defenses for other defensive arguments.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        6.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation or suspension

Relevant Information - Point Suspension Plus BAC Chemical Testing Refusal Revocation

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - Point Suspension Plus BAC Chemical Testing Refusal Revocation
  1 year Statutory point suspension period is mandatory 12 months for conviction of DUI, habitual user or DEAC (BAC 0.08 or above).  
   

DWAI is not included in the mandatory statutory point suspension period, but it is likely DOR hearing officer discretion will be 12 months - DWAI aggravator

 

 
  6 months Regulatory base period for non-alcohol point suspension  
  3 months Regulatory discretionary minimum period for non-alcohol point suspension  
  1 year Regulatory discretionary maximum period for non-alcohol point suspension  
 

        Suspension period for excessive points runs consecutive (back to back) to chemical test refusal revocation.  CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(II)  That means the periods of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial would be stacked; one to run after the other concludes.

 

        CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(II)  Where a license is revoked under subparagraph (II) of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section (reference information - revocations for chemical test refusal) and the person is also convicted on criminal charges arising out of the same occurrence for a violation of CR 42-4-1301(1)(a) or (2), any suspension, revocation, cancellation, or denial which results from such conviction and is imposed shall run consecutively with the revocation under this section.

 

        CRS 42-4-1301.2. Refusal of test — effect on driver's license — revocation — reinstatement.
                (1) If a person refuses to take, or to complete, or to cooperate with the completing of any test or tests as provided in CRS 42-4-1301.1, the person shall be subject to license revocation pursuant to the provisions of CRS 42-2-126. Such revocation shall take effect prior to and shall stay the remainder of any previous suspension, or denial in lieu of suspension, and shall not run concurrently, in whole or in part, with any previous or subsequent suspensions, revocations, or denials that may be provided for by law, including any suspension, revocation, or denial that results from a conviction of criminal charges arising out of the same occurrence for a violation of CRS 42-4-1301. The remainder of any suspension, or denial in lieu of suspension, stayed pursuant to the provisions of this subsection (1) shall be reinstated following the completion of any revocation provided for in CRS 42-2-126. Any revocation taken under said section shall not preclude other actions that the department is required to take in the administration of the provisions of this title.

b. Probationary License - Point Suspension Plus BAC Chemical Testing Refusal Revocation - interim restricted license during restraint
  Not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible.
"
red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria
Regarding
probationary license restrictions & requirements, refer to reinstatement below    (interlock consecutive)
 
   

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-125(5) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

 
 

Probationary License During Point Suspension After Alcohol Revocation

 
 

        CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(I) If there is no other statutory reason for denial of a probationary license, any individual who has had a license suspended by the department because of, at least in part, a conviction of an offense specified in paragraph (b) of subsection (5) of this section may be entitled to a probationary license pursuant to subsection (12) of this section (reference information - DUI, DWAI, DEAC, Baby DUI Underage BAC 0.02 - 0.05) for the purpose of driving for reasons of employment, education, health, or alcohol and drug education or treatment, but:
                        (A) If ordered by the court that convicted the individual, the individual shall be enrolled in a program of driving education or alcohol and drug education and treatment certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse in the department of human services; and
                        (B) If the individual is a persistent drunk driver, as defined in CRS 42-1-102(68.5), any probationary license shall require the use of an approved ignition interlock device, as defined in CRS 42-2-132.5(7)(a), and the time that the individual holds a probationary license under this section shall not be credited against the time that the individual may be required to hold a restricted license pursuant to section 42-2-132.5.

 
c. Revocation - Reinstatement Information - Point Suspension Plus BAC Chemical Testing Refusal Revocation
              
refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement

Regarding application for reinstatement, written and driving tests, mandatory interlock, Insurance Requirement or alcohol education, refer to:
        Reinstatement Requirements -
chemical test refusal - first revocation
        Reinstatement Requirements - chemical test refusal - second or subsequent revocation

  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

ADULT
CDL

REFUSAL  *  EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL CONTENT
ALCOHOL OFFENSE CONVICTION * POINT SUSPENSION
OUT OF SERVICE ORDER

MINOR
CDL

 
COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE * SUSPENSION * REVOCATION OR DENIAL  
ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
NON-ALCOHOL DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
Adult CDL Revocation or Denial Minor CDL Revocation or Denial
 

 

        General Information - Alcohol Violations & Commercial Driver License - CDL
                It is not possible to condense the myriad of alcohol CDL statutory & regulatory law to a single webpage subsection.  This is a synopsis.
        Alcohol related "out of service order"
                Anticipated when a CDL driver is operating a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) at the time of the stop

        Alcohol Related Traffic Offense Conviction   CRS 42-2-126(2)(a)(II)
                DUI - DEACDWAI conviction will trigger CDL Disqualification  
        Chemical Test Refusal   CRS 42-2-126(2)(a)(IV)
                N
o requirement for request to be within two (2) hours of driving
                Revocation will trigger CDL Disqualification
    
                Refusal or BAC 0.04
or greater as tested at the time of driving a commercial motor vehicle or anytime thereafter - no 2 hour time limit
        Excessive Alcohol
BAC 0.04 or Greater - Adult CDL     CRS 42-2-126(2)(a)(III)
                N
o requirement for request or test to be within two (2) hours of driving
               
If an adult commercial driver breath or blood alcohol concentration was 0.04 or greater as tested at the time of driving a commercial motor vehicle or anytime thereafter, the driver should receive an "out of service order" at the time of the stop and should receive notice of revocation or denial of driving privileges. CRS 42-2-126(2)(a)(III)  Breath test results are instant, and usually the notice of revocation or denial is received at the time of arrest. This is usually on a yellow piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". Blood tests take up to 15 days to obtain results; the driver should receive a notice of revocation or denial by certified mail in 3 to 6 weeks. This is usually on a white piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". From date of receipt, the driver has 7 days to ask for a hearing. If the driver asks within that time, a hearing will be set to determine whether driving privileges should be revoked or denied. If the driver fails to ask within 7 days, the driver has waived (forfeited - given up) the right to such a hearing, and driving privileges automatically will be revoked or denied for the period indicated below (this includes CDL). CRS 42-2-126. When the driver requests a hearing, he / she should demand that the officer be ordered to appear. Otherwise, the determination will be on the basis of written reports submitted by the officer.  Revocation will trigger CDL Disqualification.
        Excessive Alcohol
BAC 0.02 - 0.040 - Minor CDL     CRS 42-2-126(2)(a)(IV)
                N
o requirement for request or test to be within two (2) hours of driving
               
If a commercial driver under age 21 breath or blood alcohol concentration was 0.02 - 0.04 as tested at the time of driving a commercial motor vehicle or anytime thereafter, the commercial driver should receive an "out of service order" at the time of the stop and should receive a notice of revocation or denial of driving privileges. Breath test results are instant, and usually the notice of revocation or denial is received at the time of arrest. This is usually on a yellow piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". Blood tests take up to 15 days to obtain results; the driver should receive a notice of revocation or denial by certified mail in 3 to 6 weeks. This is usually on a white piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". From date of receipt, the driver has 7 days to ask for a hearing. If the driver asks within that time, a hearing will be set to determine whether driving privileges should be revoked or denied. If the driver fails to ask within 7 days, the driver has waived (forfeited - given up) the right to such a hearing, and driving privileges automatically will be revoked or denied for the period indicated below (this includes CDL). CRS 42-2-126. When the driver requests a hearing, he / she should demand that the officer be ordered to appear. Otherwise, the determination will be on the basis of written reports submitted by the officer.  Revocation will trigger CDL Disqualification.
        Refer to Driver Mandatory Reporting Obligations.
        CDL Point Suspension
     CRS 42-2-127(1)(a)
                CDL may be suspended for accumulation of non-alcohol traffic offense or traffic infraction points.  Information is provided below.

Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke or Suspend CDL
Note:  "out of service order" is a horse of a different color - 49 CFR 392.5

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - Excessive Alcohol BAC  or Chemical Test Refusal - CDL     note - other defenses may exist

 

        1.  Person identified as Respondent was the CDL driver of a commercial motor vehicle within the State of Colorado and within the jurisdiction of the law enforcement officer
        2.  The law enforcement officer had reasonable suspicion to stop or otherwise come in contact with the driver
        3.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to believe the driver drove a motor vehicle while he or she was under the influence of or impaired alcohol or drug
                        this is tantamount to: the law enforcement officer had probable cause to to invoke Colorado express consent law
        4.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to and did request a chemical test of the driver's blood or breath pursuant to Colorado express consent law
        5.  The driver submitted to a chemical test - no requirement for request or test to be within two (2) hours of driving
        6.  The breath or blood chemical test substantially complied with
Colorado Department of Health Regulations
        7.  The results of the breath or blood chemical test were equal to or greater than the below grams of alcohol per 100 ml blood or per 210 liters of breath
                        Adult CDL: 0.04 or greater as tested at the time of driving a commercial motor vehicle or anytime thereafter
                        Minor or Provisional CDL (under age 21): 0.02 - 0.04 as tested at the time of driving a commercial motor vehicle or anytime thereafter
        8.  BAC threshold level for presumption state chemical test presumption : 0.096 or more  (no scientific basis or justification for presumption, but legislative)
                                                                                              OR
        9.  The Respondent driver refused chemical testing to determine breath or blood alcohol or drug concentration
      10.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

 

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - Alcohol Conviction - CDL   CRS 42-2-126(2)(a)(II)

 

        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the holder of a commercial driver license - CDL
        2.  The person identified as Respondent was the CDL driver convicted of an
underlying DUI - DEACDWAI offense - CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a)
        3.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        4.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon the underlying conviction.
        5.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        6.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

 

 

CRS 42-2-405(3)(a)  A conviction for violating CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a), or a substantially similar law of any other state pertaining to drinking and driving, or an administrative determination of a violation of CRS 42-2-126(2)(a) (I) or (2)(a) (I.5) shall be deemed driving under the influence; (reference information - this covers DUI, DWAI, DEAC & the alcohol related license revocations)

 

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Suspend - Points - CDL   CRS 42-2-127(1)(a)

 

        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the holder of a commercial driver license - CDL
        2.  The person identified as Respondent was the CDL driver convicted of an
underlying DUI - DEACDWAI offense - CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a)
        3.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        4.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon the underlying conviction.
        5.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        6.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

 
 

Suspension criteria, procedure & hearing is similar to Point Suspension for a regular license except that the point threshold which triggers suspension is different if all convictions were incurred during the course & scope of employment.  Refer to link.

 
 

Chauffeur additional point allowance is not applicable if any points are alcohol related or leaving the scene of an accident  CRS 42-2-127(1)

 

 

Regarding points which are the basis for suspension.  If any such points were incurred outside the course & scope of employment, driver is not entitled the additional points granted under the chauffeur exception.  Edwards v. Motor Vehicle Div., 33 Colo. App. 382 (1974), Michels v. Motor Vehicle Div of Dept. of Revenue, 32 Colo. App. 106, 506 P.2d 1243 (1973).  Put another way, all points must be job related or the driver will fall under the normal point system - minor, provisional or adult.

 

Relevant Information - CDL Revocation or Suspension

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - Violations & Commercial Driver License - CDL

Colorado Law - CDL Excessive Alcohol Revocation

Adult CDL: 0.04 or greater Minor CDL: 0.02 - 0.04  
  Driving Commercial Vehicle: 1 year CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(III.5)  
  Driving Commercial Vehicle - Hazardous Materials : 3 years CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IV)  
 

CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(III.5) The period of commercial driving privilege revocation under subparagraphs (I), (I.5), (II), or (III) of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section shall be the disqualification period provided in 49 CFR § 383.51 if the person was the holder of a commercial driver's license or was operating a commercial vehicle when the violation occurred.

CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IV) The period of license revocation under subparagraph (II) or (III) of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section involving a commercial motor vehicle that was transporting hazardous materials as defined in CRS 42-2-402(7) shall be no less than three years.

 

Colorado Law - CDL Revocation for Refusal to Submit to Chemical Testing

  Driving Commercial Vehicle: 1 year CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(III.5)  
  Driving Commercial Vehicle - Hazardous Materials : 3 years CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IV)  
 

CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(III.5) The period of commercial driving privilege revocation under subparagraphs (I), (I.5), (II), or (III) of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section shall be the disqualification period provided in 49 CFR § 383.51 if the person was the holder of a commercial driver's license or was operating a commercial vehicle when the violation occurred.

CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IV) The period of license revocation under subparagraph (II) or (III) of paragraph (a) of subsection (2) of this section involving a commercial motor vehicle that was transporting hazardous materials as defined in CRS 42-2-402(7) shall be no less than three years.

CRS 42-4-1301.1(4) Any driver of a commercial motor vehicle requested to submit to a test as provided in paragraph (a) or (b) of subsection (2) of this section shall be warned by the law enforcement officer requesting the test that a refusal to submit to the test shall result in an out-of-service order as defined under CRS 42-2-402(8) for a period of twenty-four hours and a revocation of the privilege to operate a commercial motor vehicle for one year as provided under CRS 42-2-126.

CRS 42-2-402(8) Definitions "Out-of-service order" means an "out-of-service order" as defined by 49 CFR 383.5.

Refer to 49 CFR 392.5 Alcohol Prohibition regarding alcohol related 24 hours "out of service order" and reporting requirements.

 

Colorado Law - Alcohol Offense Conviction - CDL

refer to Federal period of disqualification regarding equivalent Colorado license revocation

CDL During Federal Disqualification Prohibited by Colorado Law

CRS 42-2-404(1.5)(a)  The department shall not issue a commercial driver's license to, and shall immediately cancel the commercial driver's license of, any person subject to a federal disqualification order on the basis of imminent hazard to public safety pursuant to 49 CFR 383.52.
        (b) A person who is subject to a federal disqualification order on the basis of imminent hazard, or whose commercial or noncommercial driver's privilege is under restraint, shall not be eligible for a restricted, probationary, or hardship license that would permit the person to operate a commercial motor vehicle during the period of such disqualification or restraint.
        (reference information - if disqualified by the Feds, Colorado offers no CDL relief)

 

Colorado Law - CDL Point Suspension
refer to Index Links - but substitute period of disqualification for license revocation
Point Suspension + Excessive Alcohol Chemical Test
suspension will run concurrent with revocation
Point Suspension + Chemical Test Refusal
suspension will run consecutive to revocation
Point Suspension + First Alcohol Conviction CDL Revocation
suspension may run concurrent with revocation
Point Suspension + Multiple Alcohol Convictions Revocation
suspension will run consecutive with revocation

        To publishing attorney's belief, simply because a CDL has been revoked & disqualified does not mean that the driver couldn't apply for and receive a regular adult license.  e.g. adult first offense DWAI conviction with BAC below 0.08 grams of alcohol per 100 ml blood or per 210 liters of breath - 8 points against license.  Regular adult license would not be subject to excessive alcohol revocation nor point suspension if no other points existed.  Counsel had not had occasion to defend this type of action, but I can see no prohibition to eligibility for regular adult licensing.  Naturally a chemical test refusal or revocation for excessive where the BAC was above the limit for a regular adult, provisional or minor license would not qualify for this type of argument as any driver would be subject to license loss.

Colorado Law - DUI Drugs - Revocation - CDL

Driving Commercial Vehicle - DUI Drugs - Hazardous Materials:

3 years

CRS 42-2-125 §§ (1)(b) & (2)

 

Federal Regulation 49 CFR § 383.51 Disqualification of Drivers

49 CFR § 383.51(a)(1)  A driver or holder of a CDL who is disqualified must not drive a CMV.
49 CFR § 383.51(b) Disqualification for major offenses. Table 1 to § 383.51 contains a list of the offenses and periods for which a driver must be disqualified, depending upon the type of vehicle the driver is operating at the time of the violation, as follows:

Table 1 to § 383.51

Action
 
 
 

1st Refusal
or Conviction
Operating CMV
 
1st Refusal
or Conviction
Operating Non-CMV
 
1st Refusal
or Conviction
Operating CMV
Hazardous Materials
2nd Refusal
or Conviction
Operating CMV
 
2nd Refusal
or Conviction
Operating Non-CMV
 
DUI - DEACDWAI - Conviction Alcohol 1 year 1 year 3 years life life
DUI - DEACDWAI - Conviction Drugs 1 year 1 year 3 years life life
BAC 0.04 or Greater - Revocation Operating CMV 1 year not applicable 3 years life not applicable
Refusing Chemical Test - Revocation 1 year 1 year 3 years life life

49 CFR § 383.51(a)(5)  Reinstatement after lifetime disqualification. A State may reinstate any driver disqualified for life for offenses described in paragraphs (b)(1) through (b)(8) of this section (Table 1 to § 383.51) (reference information - Table 1 in part provided above) after 10 years if that person has voluntarily entered and successfully completed an appropriate rehabilitation program approved by the State.  Any person who has been reinstated in accordance with this provision and who is subsequently convicted of a disqualifying offense described in paragraphs (b)(1) through (b)(8) of this section (Table 1 to § 383.51) must not be reinstated.  No more bites out of apple.

A CDL holder who is charged with an alcohol traffic offense, refuses a chemical test or has an excessive alcohol revocation while driving a private vehicle (not a CMV) may incur revocation of the CDL or may incur CDL disqualificaiton.  Colorado statutes, Colorado regulations and federal regulations apply.

Attorney Notation: Other CDL problems may exist, such as out of service order or school bus endorsement.  Consult counsel.

b. Probationary License - CDL Revocation or Suspension - interim restricted license during restraint
       
"red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria

CDL probationary license is statutorily prohibited - refer to link.

Probationary license - Regular Driver (not CDL):

        To publishing attorney's belief, simply because a CDL has been disqualified, suspended or revoked or is subject to an "out of service order" doe not necessary prohibit the driver from applying for an interim probationary license (regular driver - not CDL), while driving privileges remain under suspension.

CRS 42-2-116. Restricted license.
        (1) The department, upon issuing a driver's or minor driver's license or an instruction permit, has authority, whenever good cause appears, to impose restrictions, limitations, or conditions which are suitable to the licensee's driving ability with respect to the type of special mechanical control device required on a motor vehicle which the licensee may operate or which limit the right of the licensee to drive a motor vehicle except when such licensee is required to drive to and from the licensee's place of employment or to perform duties within the course of employment or to impose such other restrictions applicable to the licensee as the department may determine to be appropriate to assure the safe operation of a motor vehicle by the licensee.
        (2) The department either may issue a special restricted license or must set forth such restrictions, limitations, or conditions upon the usual license form issued to the applicant.

CRS 42-2-127. Authority to suspend license — to deny license — type of conviction — points.
        (12) If at the hearing held pursuant to subsection (8) of this section it appears that the record of the driver sustains suspension as provided in this section, the department shall immediately suspend such driver's license, and such license shall then be surrendered to the department. If at such hearing it appears that the record of the driver does not sustain suspension, the department shall not suspend such license and shall adjust the accumulated-point total accordingly. In the event that the driver's license is suspended, the department may issue a probationary license for a period not to exceed the period of suspension, which license may contain such restrictions as the department deems reasonable and necessary and which may thereafter be subject to cancellation as a result of any violation of the restrictions imposed therein. The department may also order any driver whose license is suspended to take a complete driving reexamination. After such hearing, the licensee may appeal the decision to the district court as provided in section 42-2-135.
        (14)(a) (I) If there is no other statutory reason for denial of a probationary license, any individual who has had a license suspended by the department because of, at least in part, a conviction of an offense specified in paragraph (b) of subsection (5) of this section may be entitled to a probationary license pursuant to subsection (12) of this section for the purpose of driving for reasons of employment, education, health, or alcohol and drug education or treatment, but: (A) If ordered by the court that convicted the individual, the individual shall be enrolled in a program of driving education or alcohol and drug education and treatment certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse in the department of human services; and (B) If the individual is a persistent drunk driver, as defined in section 42-1-102 (68.5), any probationary license shall require the use of an approved ignition interlock device, as defined in section 42-2-132.5(7) (a), and the time that the individual holds a probationary license under this section shall not be credited against the time that the individual may be required to hold a restricted license pursuant to section 42-2-132.5.
                (II) A probationary license issued pursuant to this subsection (14) shall contain any other restrictions as the department deems reasonable and necessary, shall be subject to cancellation for violation of any such restrictions, including but not limited to absences from alcohol and drug education or treatment sessions or failure to complete alcohol and drug education or treatment programs, and shall be issued for the entire period  of suspension.

        While publishing attorney can find no prohibition against issuance of a probationary CDL during a non-alcohol point suspension, counsel doubts the DMV would grant a probationary CDL for operating commercial vehicles in the course and scope of employment based upon the fact probationary license statutes refer only to a driver's license, not a commercial or chauffeur driver license.  That is a statutory construction issue for the courts.

        All commercial driving is prohibited during the period of CDL disqualification. 49 CFR § 383.51(a)(1)  Interlock CDL is prohibited.  CRS 42-2-132.5(3)(c) 

 
c. Reinstatement Information - CDL Revocation or Suspension
 

CRS 42-2-405(4)  A commercial driver whose privilege to drive a commercial motor vehicle has been cancelled or denied pursuant to this section may, following any applicable revocation period, apply for another type or class of driver's license in accordance with section 42-2-104, as long as there is no other statutory reason to deny such person such a license.

 

CRS 42-2-403. Department authority — rules — federal requirements.
        (1) The department shall develop, adopt, and administer a procedure for licensing drivers of commercial motor vehicles in accordance with applicable federal law governing commercial motor vehicle safety and any rules promulgated thereunder. The department is hereby specifically authorized to adopt and effectuate, whether by rule, policy, or administrative custom or practice, any licensing sanction imposed by federal statutes or rules governing commercial motor vehicle safety.
        (2)(a) The department shall promulgate such rules and regulations as are necessary for the implementation of this part 4. Such rules and regulations shall govern all aspects of licensing commercial drivers, including, but not limited to, testing procedures, license issuance procedures, out-of-service regulations, denial procedures, including suspensions, revocations, cancellations and denials, records maintenance, reporting requirements, and cooperation with the commercial driver's license information system.

  Reinstatement - CDL Revocation or Suspension   refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6

3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  Interlock may be required for Persistent Drunk Driver, multiple convictions or other reasons the same as it would be for any other driver.  Refer to Index.  No CDL (commercial driver's license) may be issued with interlock. Driver must wait for reinstatement until all interlock requirements have expired to apply for CDL. CRS 42-2-132.5(3)(c) 

4.  Insurance Requirement:

Insurance - CDL Excessive Alcohol Revocation Pursuant to CRS 42-2-126, Refusal or Persistent Drunk Driver

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 months or period of license restriction  
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(I)

Insurance - Revocation or Suspension - First Alcohol Conviction or Non-Alcohol Point Suspension

Type of Insurance.

Evidence of Insurance - affidavit

Period Required. 

requirement of all drivers to reinstate pursuant to suspension statute
Authority.  CRS 42-7-406(1), CRS 42-7-406(2)(a),(b), CRS 42-2-127

Insurance - CDL Revocation or Suspension

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period

period of probationary license (usually 6 months) + 3 months statutory
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(I)
5.  Education required for reinstatement - CDL Revocation or Suspension
CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
  Level I or II Alcohol Education
 
 
 
proof of enrollment or alcohol certification for reinstatement required

No Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation:
refer to grids for level of alcohol education
alcohol certification for reinstatement

Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation:
68 Hours in not less than 8 months
proof of enrollment

   Alcohol Therapy
 
 
 
not required unless prior alcohol related conviction
No Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation:
refer to grids for level of alcohol education
alcohol certification for reinstatement
Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation:
68 Hours in not less than 8 months
proof of enrollment
 
  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

 

Attorney Comments re Alcohol Offenses & Commercial Driver License (CDL)
 

        A driver who holds a CDL or school bus endorsement has a unique circumstance when faced with alcohol related traffic charges.  A great deal more CDL regulatory law exists than is provided below; I have included that what I believe to be relevant to most circumstances.
 

Several statutes and regulations are linked verbatim in the table of statutes contained in this website - not reidentified in this listing
refer to self help legal research to locate state and federal statutes and regulations

1 CCR §204-6 CDL License Classifications 1 CCR §204-12 CDL License Regs 1 CCR §301-26 CDL Dept Education - Bus Operation
CRS 42-4-401 CDL Short Title CRS 42-4-402 CDL Definitions CRS 42-4-403 CDL Rules CRS 42-4-404 CDL Limitations
CRS 42-4-405 CDL Disciplinary Action CRS 42-4-406 CDL Fees CRS 42-4-407 CDL License Testing Units
49 CFR §355.25 CDL State Law Compatibility 49 CFR §383 CDL Knowledge & Skills Guidelines 49 CFR §383.1 CDL Purpose & Scope
49 CFR §383.5 CDL Definitions 49 CFR §383.5 CDL Disqualification Index 49 CFR §383.23 CDL Required
49 CFR §383.31 CDL Conviction Notification 49 CFR §383.33 CDL Suspension Notification 49 CFR §383.35 CDL Employment Notification
49 CFR §383.37 CDL Employer Responsibilities 49 CFR §383.51 CDL Disqualification
49 CFR §383.52 CDL Disqualification Imminent Hazard 49 CFR §383.53 CDL Penalties
49 CFR §383.71 CDL Driver Application Procedures 49 CFR §383.73 CDL State Procedures
49 CFR §383.117 CDL Passenger Endorsement Requirements 49 CFR §383.123 CDL School Bus Endorsement Requirements
49 CFR §383.153 CDL License Information 49 CFR §384.203 CDL DUI 49 CFR §384.205 CDL CDLIS Check
49 CFR §384.206 CDL State Record Check 49 CFR §384.208 CDL Disqualification Notice 49 CFR §384.209 CDL Traffic Violation Notice
49 CFR §384.210 CDL Limitation on Licensing 49 CFR §384.215 CDL First Offense Penalties 49 CFR §384.216 CDL Second Offense Lifetime Penalties
49 CFR §384.218 CDL Second Serious Traffic Offense Penalties 49 CFR §384.219 CDL Third Serious Traffic Offense Penalties
49 CFR §384.220 CDL NDR Check 49 CFR §384.221 CDL Out of Service - Intoxication 49 CFR §384.225 CDL Record of Violations
49 CFR §384.226 CDL Deferred Sentence Prohibition - Prohibition on Masking Convictions 49 CFR §384.231 CDL Disqualification Requirements
49 CFR §384.232 CDL Timing of Records Check 49 CFR §521 CDL Civil Penalties

 

CDL Highlights
 

Criminal Case Disposition - Deferred Sentence Problems

Circumstances such as BAC level, BAC refusal, accident or high risk driving, prior offenses, presence of children in the vehicle or other factors may make negotiation of a deferred sentence highly unlikely.  Under any circumstance, 49 CFR §384.226 prohibits masking a conviction (deferred sentence) regarding drivers holding a CDL.  Also refer to the definition of conviction in 49 CFR 383.5; it appears to encompass a deferred sentence prior to successful dismissal.
 

License Suspension vs. Revocation

A suspension merely holds the driving privileges in abeyance until the end of the term & the license remains valid.  A revocation “destroys” the license and it is then non-existent.  In the event of revocation of a CDL for excessive alcohol under CRS 42-2-126, it is just that - a revocation.  If revoked, completely new licensing application is required after payment of the Colorado DMV reinstatement fee, SR-22 insurance proof & proof of attendance in alcohol education & therapy - treatment.  With revocation, the commercial driver would be subject to CDL licensure requirements starting from scratch.  Refer to the above CFR Table 1 for minimum time of license loss.
 

Conviction - Obligations & CDL Disqualification

State laws must be compatible with federal CDL regulations. 49 CFR §355.25.  A violation of CRS 42-4-1301(1) - DUI - DWAI - or (2)(a) - DEAC - shall be deemed driving under the influence.  Reduction to DWAI will not help in the CDL realm.  Colorado DMV is required to maintain record of convictions or licensing actions (revocation) affecting CDL licensure. CRS 42-4-403((2)(e).
 
If convicted of
DUI - DEAC or DWAI first offense, Colorado must disqualify your CDL for no less than one year.  49 CFR §384.215, 49 CFR §384.231.  Lifetime disqualification provisions of 49 CFR §384.216 may apply depending upon the facts of the case.  Refer above to 49 CFR § 383.51(a)(5) for possible reinstatement after 10 years if lifetime disqualification is applicable.
 
Disqualification would encompass excessive alcohol revocation by a State DMV or suspension due to points. 49 CFR 383.5
 
A CDL holder must provide notice within 30 days to the home state DMV and to the employer of a traffic infraction or offense conviction in another state. 49 CFR §383.31
 
Before the end of the business day following notice or knowledge, a CDL holder must provide notice to the employer of license suspension, revocation, cancellation or CDL disqualification. 49 CFR §383.33
 
Employers may not knowingly allow a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle at any time the driver’s CDL is suspended, revoked or cancelled or the CDL has been disqualified. 49 CFR §383.37 and 49 CFR §383.51
 
A disqualified CDL holder or driver must not drive a commercial motor vehicle. 49 CFR §383.51.  Major offense disqualification:
DUI - DEAC or DWAI conviction in non-commercial vehicle ➪ 1 year. 49 CFR §383.51
 

Alcohol Related CDL "Out of Service Order"

CRS 42-2-405(2)(a)  A person who drives, operates, or is in physical control of a commercial motor vehicle while having any alcohol in his or her system, or who refuses to submit to a test to determine the alcoholic content of the driver's blood or breath while driving a commercial motor vehicle, shall be placed out of service as defined in section 42-2-402(8).

CRS 42-2-402(8) "Out-of-service order" means an "out-of-service order" as defined by 49 CFR 383.5.

49 CFR 383.5  Out-of-service order means a declaration by an authorized enforcement officer of a Federal, State, Canadian, Mexican, or local jurisdiction that a driver, a commercial motor vehicle, or a motor carrier operation, is out-of-service pursuant to 49 CFR 392.5 or §§ 386.72, 395.13, 396.9, or compatible laws, or the North American Uniform Out-of-Service Criteria. Refer to the linked regulation.
 

CDL Holder Reporting Requirements

49 CFR 392.5(d) Any driver who is issued an out-of-service order under this section shall: (1) Report such issuance to his/her employer within 24 hours; and (2) Report such issuance to a State official, designated by the State which issued his/her driver's license, within 30 days unless the driver chooses to request a review of the order. In this case, the driver shall report the order to the State official within 30 days of an affirmation of the order by either the Division Administrator or State Director for the geographical area or the Associate Administrator.  (reference information - alcohol prohibition out of service order)  Refer to 49 CFR 392.5 Alcohol Prohibition regarding alcohol related 24 hours "out of service order" and reporting requirements.
 

Application for new CDL

When applying for employment, a CDL holder must provide a list of the names and addresses of previous employers for which an applicant was an operator of a commercial motor vehicle.  Period mandated: 10 years. 49 CFR §383.35
 
A CDL applicant must certify you are not subject to disqualification & provide the states in which you have been licensed during the previous 10 years. 49 CFR §383.71  States must perform a background check, including driving record & disqualification search.  This includes CDLIS (no time limit) & NDR 49 CFR §383.73 NDR search for non-CDL suspension, revocation or cancellation is 3 years.  Driving record search must encompass 10 years.
 
Refer to 49 CFR §384.205 & subsequent for records check requirements.
 
A CDL school bus endorsement applicant must certify & the State must verify that, during the 2 year period immediately prior to applying for the school bus endorsement, the driver held a valid CDL with school bus endorsement, has not had his or her driver’s license or CDL suspended, revoked or cancelled or been disqualified from operating a CMV & have not been convicted of any disqualifying offense (
DUI - DEACDWAI) included. 49 CFR §383.123.  Other requirements not included in this highlight - refer to regulation.
 
Regarding school bus drivers, 1 CCR §301.26 4204R-107.02 provides the operator shall have a satisfactory driving record as determined by the local board of education and its insurance carrier policy.  This leaves discretion to the local school board regarding hiring drivers with prior
DUI - DEACDWAI or excessive alcohol license revocation matters.  That could likely be problematic given the precious cargo.
 

Summary

In summary, a CDL holder with alcohol traffic charges may face disqualification including 1 year ineligibility to apply for a CDL and 2 year ineligibility to apply for a CDL with school bus endorsement.  Records will be checked for 10 years.  A Colorado driving record may reflect an alcohol conviction or excessive alcohol revocation for a longer period of time.

Unless the driver wins the excessive alcohol DMV revocation hearing proceeding and procures a not guilty verdict at jury trial in the criminal case, the licensing statutes & regulations are not favorable to again driving a commercial vehicle (including but not limited to hazardous material, school bus or normal cargo) for a long period of time, if ever.

2 ALCOHOL DRIVING OFFENSES WITHIN PERIOD OF 5 YEARS

 
REVOCATION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE
 
ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-125(1)(g)(I)  Multiple Alcohol Offense Revocation or Denial

 

        General Information - 2 Alcohol Offenses Within a Period of 5 Years
               
Revocation under CRS 42-2-125(1)(g)(I) - convictions for 2 alcohol related traffic offenses committed within a period of 5 years
                Underlying offenses - DUI - DEACDWAI offense - CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a)
        Revocation is mandatory pursuant to
CRS CRS 42-2-125(1)(g)(I).  Upon receipt of conviction transcript from the court, the DMV will automatically take the adverse action against the Colorado driver license or Colorado driving privileges and send notice of revocation or denial to the driver via regular U.S. Mail.  Driver may then request (in writing) a hearing pursuant CRS 42-2-125(4).  Hearing will be held in the DMV district office closest to the residence of the driver.

CRS 42-2-125. Mandatory revocation of license and permit.
        (1) The department shall immediately revoke the license or permit of any driver or minor driver upon receiving a record showing that such driver has: ...
              (g) (I) Been twice convicted of any offense provided for in CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a) for acts committed within a period of five years;

        Refer to vehicle forfeiture - legislative debate

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - 2 Alcohol Offenses Within a Period of 5 Years
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of each
underlying DUI - DEACDWAI offense - CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a)
        2.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon one or both the underlying convictions.
        4.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        5.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - 2 Alcohol Driving Offenses Within a Period of 5 Years

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - 2 Alcohol Offenses Within a Period of 5 Years
  1 year CRS 42-2-125(2)  

2 Alcohol Offenses Within a Period of 5 Years revocation period above runs consecutive (back to back) to to any other adverse action suspension or revocation. CRS 42-2-125 §§ (3) & (5), CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(I)  That means the periods of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial would be stacked; one to run after the other.

b. Probationary License - 2 Alcohol Offenses Within a Period of 5 Years - interim restricted license during restraint
  Not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible.
"
red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria
Regarding
probationary license restrictions & requirements, refer to reinstatement below    (interlock consecutive)
 
   

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-125(5) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

 
c. Revocation - Reinstatement Information - 2 Alcohol Offenses Within a Period of 5 Years
                        refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-127(12), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  2 years CRS 42-2-125(2.4) - refer to persistent drunk driver   CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
        voluntary
probationary license interlock runs consecutive (back to back) with mandatory interlock - stacked times
4.  Insurance Requirement - 2 Alcohol Offenses Within a Period of 5 Years

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B), CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II), CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)
5.  Education required for reinstatement   CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
  Level II Alcohol Education
enrollment proof required

Alcohol Education Grid: Level II Alcohol Education Classes
proof of enrollment

   Alcohol Therapy
enrollment proof required
 
BAC 0.169 or Less Conviction:    68 Hours in not less than 8 months
BAC 0.17 or Greater Conviction: 86 Hours in not less than 10 months
proof of enrollment

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

3 ALCOHOL DRIVING OFFENSES WITHIN LIFETIME

 
REVOCATION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE
 
ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 4-2-2125(1)(i)
  Multiple Alcohol Offense Revocation or Denial

 

        General Information - 3 Alcohol Offenses Within a Person's Lifetime
                T
his section refers to revocation under CRS 4-2-2125(1)(i) - convictions for 3 alcohol related traffic offenses committed within a person's lifetime
                Underlying offenses - DUI - DEACDWAI offense - CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a)
        Revocation is mandatory pursuant to
CRS 4-2-2125(1)(i).  Upon receipt of conviction transcript from the court, the DMV will automatically take the adverse action against the Colorado driver license or Colorado driving privileges and send notice of revocation or denial to the driver via regular U.S. Mail.  Driver may then request (in writing) a hearing pursuant CRS CRS 42-2-125(4).  Hearing will be held in the DMV district office closest to the residence of the driver.

CRS 4-2-2125. Mandatory revocation of license and permit.
        (1) The department shall immediately revoke the license or permit of any driver or minor driver upon receiving a record showing that such driver has: ...
              (i) Been convicted of any offense provided for in CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a) and has two previous convictions of any of such offenses. The license of any driver shall be revoked for an indefinite period and shall only be reissued upon proof to the department that said driver has completed a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3 and that said driver has demonstrated knowledge of the laws and driving ability through the regular motor vehicle testing process. In no event shall such license be reissued in less than two years.

        Refer to vehicle forfeiture - legislative debate

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - 3 Alcohol Offenses Within a Person's Lifetime
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of each
underlying DUI - DEACDWAI offense - CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a)
        2.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon one or more of the underlying convictions.
        4.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        5.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - 3 Alcohol Offenses Within a Person's Lifetime

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - 3 Alcohol Offenses Within a Person's Lifetime
  2 years CRS 4-2-125(1)(i)  

3 Alcohol Offenses Within a Person's Lifetime revocation period above runs consecutive (back to back) to to any other adverse action suspension or revocation. CRS 42-2-125 §§ (3) & (5), CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(I)  That means the periods of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial would be stacked; one to run after the other.

b. Probationary License - 3 Alcohol Offenses Within a Person's Lifetime - interim restricted license during restraint
  Not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible.
"
red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria
Regarding
probationary license restrictions & requirements, refer to reinstatement below    (interlock consecutive)
 
   

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-125(5) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

 
c. Revocation - Reinstatement Information - 3 Alcohol Offenses Within a Person's Lifetime
                        refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 4-2-2125(1)(i), CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-127(12), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  2 years CRS 42-2-125(2.4) - refer to persistent drunk driver   CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
        voluntary
probationary license interlock runs consecutive (back to back) with mandatory interlock - stacked times
4.  Insurance Requirement - 3 Alcohol Offenses Within a Person's Lifetime

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B), CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II), CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)
5.  Education required for reinstatement   CRS 42-2-125(1)(i), CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
  Level II Alcohol Education
completion proof required

Alcohol Education Grid: Level II Alcohol Education Classes
proof of enrollment - alcohol treatment agency discharge & referral summary required

   Alcohol Therapy
completion proof required
 
BAC 0.169 or Less Conviction:    68 Hours in not less than 8 months
BAC 0.17 or Greater Conviction: 86 Hours in not less than 10 months
proof of enrollment - alcohol treatment agency discharge & referral summary required
  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

HABITUAL OFFENDER
refer to above link for additional information

 
REVOCATION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE
 
ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-201, et. seq.  Revocation or Denial
CRS 42-2-201, CRS 42-2-202, CRS 42-2-203, CRS 42-2-204, CRS 42-2-205, CRS 42-2-206

 

        a.  General Information - Habitual Offender - Alcohol Related
             Criteria:
                  Major offenses:  Conviction of three separate major offenses occurring within a period 7 years.  CRS 42-2-202(2)
                        alcohol related offenses -
DUI - DEACDWAI
                        reckless driving
                        driving under suspension, revocation or denial - driving under restraint
                        giving false information to the DMV
                        vehicular assault, vehicular homicide, or manslaughter or criminally negligent homicide which results from operation of a motor vehicle or joyriding
                        hit and run in any accident involving death or personal injuries
                        All convictions must be separate and distinct - not arising out of the same criminal episode
                  Minor traffic offenses and infractions:  CRS 42-2-202(3)
                        Minor traffic offenses & infractions can also be the basis for alcohol related habitual offender status if an alcohol related offense is included in convictions
                        10 or more separate moving violation offense or infraction convictions (4 points or greater) for acts committed within 5 years
                        18 or more separate moving violation offense or infraction convictions (3 points or less) for acts committed within 5 years
             Revocation is mandatory pursuant to
CRS 42-2-205, however pursuant to CRS 42-2-203, hearing procedure similar to CRS 42-2-127§§ (7)(13) is mandated.  Notice of hearing is sent to the driver via regular U.S. Mail.  Hearing will be held in the DMV district office closest to the residence of the driver.
             Refer to vehicle forfeiture - legislative debate

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - Habitual Offender - Alcohol Related.
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of each
underlying major offenses or minor traffic offenses and infractions
        2.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon one or more of the underlying convictions.
        4.  Refer to habitual offender page potential defenses for other defensive arguments.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        5.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - Habitual Offender - Alcohol Related

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - Habitual Offender - Alcohol Related
  5 years CRS 42-2-205(a)  
b. Probationary License - Habitual Offender - Alcohol Related - interim restricted license during restraint
  Not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible
"
red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria
Regarding
probationary license restrictions & requirements, refer to reinstatement below  (interlock consecutive)
 
   

Authority.  CRS 42-2-205. Prohibition.
        (1) No license to operate motor vehicles in this state shall be issued to an habitual offender, nor shall an habitual offender operate a motor vehicle in this state:
                (a) For a period of five years from the date of the order of the department finding such person to be an habitual offender except as may be permitted by section 42-2-132.5; and
                (b) Until such time as financial responsibility requirements are met.

 
   

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

 
c. Revocation - Reinstatement Information - Habitual Offender - Alcohol Related
                       
refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-127(12), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  2 years - refer to persistent drunk driver   CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
        voluntary
probationary license interlock runs consecutive (back to back) with mandatory interlock - stacked times
4.  Insurance Requirement - Habitual Offender - Alcohol Related

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B), CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II), CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)
5.  Education required for reinstatement - Habitual Offender - Alcohol Related
            CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
  Level II Alcohol Education
completion proof required

Alcohol Education Grid: Level II Alcohol Education Classes
proof of enrollment - alcohol treatment agency discharge & referral summary required

   Alcohol Therapy
completion proof required
 
BAC 0.169 or Less Conviction:    68 Hours in not less than 8 months
BAC 0.17 or Greater Conviction: 86 Hours in not less than 10 months
proof of enrollment - alcohol treatment agency discharge & referral summary required
  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

UNDERAGE EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL CONTENT
"Baby DEAC Revocation" - BAC Between .021 - .079

REVOCATION OR DENIAL  -  MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE

ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(II.5)
  Revocation or Denial

BASIC INFORMATION

ELEMENTS PERIOD OF LOSS
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
First Offense or Revocation
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
Second Offense or Revocation
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
Third or Subsequent Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
First Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
Second Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
Third or Subsequent Offense or Revocation
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

        General Information - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08 - "Baby DEAC Revocation"
                T
his section refers to underage BAC 0.021 - 0.079 - as tested within 2 hours of driving.  CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(II.5)  
                If relevant, refer to BAC 0.08 - .0169 or BAC 0.17 or greater
        If a underage driver's breath or blood alcohol concentration was 0.021 - 0.079 as tested within 2 hours from the time of driving, the driver should receive a notice of revocation or denial of driving privileges. Breath test results are instant, and usually the notice of revocation or denial is received at the time of arrest. This is usually on a yellow piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". Blood tests take up to 15 days to obtain results; the driver should receive a notice of revocation or denial by certified mail in 3 to 6 weeks. This is usually on a white piece of paper; size 8 1/2" x 11". From date of receipt, the driver has
7 days to ask for a hearing. If the driver asks within that time, a hearing will be set to determine whether driving privileges should be revoked or denied. If the driver fails to ask within 7 days, the driver has waived (forfeited - given up) the right to such a hearing, and driving privileges automatically will be revoked or denied for the period indicated below. CRS 42-2-126. When the driver requests a hearing, he / she should demand that the officer be ordered to appear. Otherwise, the determination will be on the basis of written reports submitted by the officer.

        Refer to vehicle forfeiture - legislative debate

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08 - "Baby DEAC Revocation"     
        Note - other defenses may exist
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver of a motor vehicle within the State of Colorado and within the jurisdiction of the law enforcement officer
        2.  The law enforcement officer had reasonable suspicion to stop or otherwise come in contact with the driver
        3.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to believe the driver drove a motor vehicle while he or she was under the influence of or impaired alcohol or drug
                        this is tantamount to: the law enforcement officer had probable cause to to invoke Colorado express consent law
        4.  The law enforcement officer had probable cause to and did request a chemical test of the driver's blood or breath pursuant to Colorado express consent law
        5.  The driver submitted to a chemical test within two (2) hours of driving
        6.  The breath or blood chemical test substantially complied with
Colorado Department of Health Regulations
        7.  The results of the breath or blood chemical test were greater than 0.02 grams of alcohol per 100 ml blood or per 210 liters of breath, but less than 0.08 grams of alcohol per 100 ml blood or per 210 liters of breath.  If relevant, refer above for BAC 0.08 - .169 and BAC 0.17 or greater
        8.  BAC threshold level for presumption state chemical test presumption : 0.096 or more  (no scientific basis or justification for presumption, but legislative)
        9.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08 - "Baby DEAC Revocation"

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08 - "Baby DEAC Revocation"
  First revocation: 3 months CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(II.5)(A)  
  Second revocation: 6 months CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(II.5)(B)  
  Third or subsequent revocation: 1 year CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(II.5)(C)  

b. Probationary License - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08 - "Baby DEAC Revocation"  - interim restricted license during restraint
       
"red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria

Probationary License - First Revocation
"Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation
" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08

Eligibility.  Perhaps eligible if 3 month revocation is converted to 1 month revocation + 2 month suspension.  CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IX)(A)  This privilege is limited to circumstances where the BAC is not more than 0.05 grams of alcohol per 100 ml blood or per 210 liters of breath; higher BAC or chemical test refusal will not qualify.  Hearing on extended suspension and probationary license may be held at the same time as the excessive alcohol revocation, however the driver is not eligible for a probationary license until 30 days have elapsed from the date of the revocation order.  Interlock is not required.  If relevant, refer above for BAC 0.08 - .169 and BAC 0.17 or greater

DOR hearing officer has discretion whether or not to grant probationary license.  CRS 42-2-116, CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IX)(A.5)

Authority.  CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IX)(A)

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

None

refer to reinstatement interlock information below (other adverse action may impose interlock)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Evidence of Insurance - affidavit

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-7-406(1), CRS 42-7-406(2)(a),(b), CRS 42-2-127

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: Attorney advises his clients not to convert the 3 month revocation to a one month revocation followed by an additional 2 months suspension with probationary license.  Refer to Probationary License Warning If point suspension or other adverse action is imposed to increase the period of license loss, the risk may justify application for a probationary license.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

Probationary License - Second Revocation
"Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation
" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08

Eligibility.  not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible  If relevant, refer above for BAC 0.08 - .169 and BAC 0.17 or greater

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-126(7)(a) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

None

refer to reinstatement interlock information below (other adverse action may impose interlock)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(II)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: If point suspension or other adverse action is imposed following the first year non eligibility for probationary license, the risk thereafter likely justifies application  Nevertheless, refer to Probationary License and Interlock Warning.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

Probationary License - Third or Subsequent Revocation
"Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation
" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08

Eligibility.  not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible  If relevant, refer above for BAC 0.08 - .169 and BAC 0.17 or greater

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-126(7)(a) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

None

refer to reinstatement interlock information below (other adverse action may impose interlock)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below 

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(II)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: If point suspension or other adverse action is imposed following the first year non eligibility for probationary license, the risk thereafter likely justifies application  Nevertheless, refer to Probationary License and Interlock Warning.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

c. Reinstatement Information - Excessive Alcohol Revocation Underage BAC 0.021 - 0.079
First Revocation - Reinstatement -  - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08 - "Baby DEAC Revocation"
            
refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  no requirement
4.  Insurance Requirement:

Insurance - First Revocation
"Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation
" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08

Type of Insurance. 

Evidence of Insurance - affidavit

Period Required. 

requirement of all drivers to reinstate pursuant to suspension statute
Authority.  CRS 42-7-406(1), CRS 42-7-406(2)(a),(b), CRS 42-2-127

Insurance - Early Reinstatement
"Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation
" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08

Type of Insurance. 

Evidence of Insurance - affidavit

Period

requirement of all drivers to reinstate pursuant to suspension statute
Authority.  CRS 42-7-406(1)(a), CRS 42-7-406(2)(a),(b), CRS 42-2-127
5.  Education required for reinstatement - CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
     "Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08
  Level I or II Alcohol Education
 
 
 
proof of enrollment or alcohol certification for reinstatement required

DMV Revocation
 
alcohol certification
CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I)

Court Conviction - Greater of Below:
Level I Alcohol Education or Education Ordered by the Court
CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(III)

   Alcohol Therapy
 

 
not required unless court ordered
DMV Revocation
 
alcohol certification
CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I)
Court Conviction - Greater of Below:
Level I Alcohol Education or Therapy Ordered by the Court
CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(III)

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

Second Revocation - Reinstatement - Excessive Alcohol Revocation Underage BAC 0.021 - 0.079
             refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  no requirement
4.  Insurance Requirement - Second Revocation
     "Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation
" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

6 months or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(II)
5.  Education required for reinstatement  
     "Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08
     CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(II), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B),
persistent drunk driver CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
  Level II Alcohol Education proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
   Alcohol Therapy
 
proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation: 68 Hours in not less than 8 months

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

Third or Subsequent Revocation - Reinstatement - Excessive Alcohol Revocation Underage BAC 0.021 - 0.079
             refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  no requirement
4.  Insurance Requirement - Third or Subsequent Revocation
     "Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

1 year or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(II)
5.  Education required for reinstatement  
     "Baby Excessive Alcohol Revocation" - Underage BAC in excess of 0.02 but less than 0.08
     CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(II), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B),
persistent drunk driver CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
  Level II Alcohol Education proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
   Alcohol Therapy
 
proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation: 68 Hours in not less than 8 months

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

MINOR ALCOHOL OFFENSE CONVICTION
"Baby DUI Conviction" - Underage BAC Between .02 - .05

REVOCATION OR DENIAL  -  MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE

ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-125(1)(g.5)
  Revocation or Denial

BASIC INFORMATION

ELEMENTS PERIOD OF LOSS
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
First Offense or Revocation
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
Second Offense or Revocation
PROBATIONARY LICENSE
Third or Subsequent Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
First Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
Second Offense or Revocation
REINSTATEMENT
Third or Subsequent Offense or Revocation
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

        General Information - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05 
               
Revocation under CRS 42-2-125(1)(g.5) - alcohol related traffic infraction conviction incurred by an underage driver
                Underlying offense - driving with excessive alcohol content CRS 42-4-1301(2)(a.5) -  BAC 0.02 - 0.05   If relevant, refer to Underage Alcohol Conviction
        Revocation is mandatory pursuant to
CRS 42-2-125(1)(g.5).  Upon receipt of conviction transcript from the court, the DMV will automatically take the adverse action against the Colorado driver license or Colorado driving privileges and send notice of revocation or denial to the driver via regular U.S. Mail.  Driver may then request a hearing pursuant CRS 42-2-125(4).  Hearing request must be made in writing.  Hearing will be held in the DMV district office closest to the residence of the driver.

CRS 42-2-125. Mandatory revocation of license and permit.
        (1) The department shall immediately revoke the license or permit of any driver or minor driver upon receiving a record showing that such driver has: ...
              (g.5) In the case of a minor driver, been convicted of an offense under section 42-4-1301(2)(a.5) committed when such driver was under twenty-one years of age;

        Refer to vehicle forfeiture - legislative debate

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05  note - other defenses may exist
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of
the underlying offense - driving with excessive alcohol content CRS 42-4-1301(2)(a.5) -  BAC 0.02 - 0.05   If relevant, refer to Underage Alcohol Conviction
        2.  Defense 1
A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon the underlying conviction.
        4.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        5.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05
  First offense: 3 months CRS 42-2-125(2.5)(a)  
  Second offense: 6 months CRS 42-2-125(2.5)(b)  
  Third or subsequent offense: 1 year CRS 42-2-125(2.5)(c)  

"Baby DUI" revocation period above runs concurrent (at the same time) with suspension for Underage Excessive Alcohol Revocation or Adult Level Excessive Alcohol Revocation (0.08 - 0.179), or Excessive Alcohol Persistent Drunk Driver Level Revocation (0.179 or greater).  The total period of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial shall not exceed the longer of the two periods.  CRS 42-2-125 §§ (3) & (5), CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(I)

"Baby DUI" revocation period above runs consecutive (back to back) to Chemical Test Refusal.  CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(II)  That means the periods of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial would be stacked; one to run after the other.

b. Probationary License - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05 - interim restricted license during restraint
       
"red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria

Probationary License - First Revocation - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05

Eligibility.  Perhaps eligible if 3 month revocation is converted to 1 month revocation + 2 month suspension.  CRS 42-2-125(2.7).  Hearing on extended suspension and probationary license may be held at the same time as the revocation hearing, however the driver is not eligible for a probationary license until 30 days have elapsed from the date of the revocation order.  Interlock is not required.  If relevant, refer to Underage Alcohol Conviction

DOR hearing officer has discretion whether or not to grant probationary license.  CRS 42-2-116, CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(IX)(A.5)

Authority.  CRS 42-2-125(2.7)

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

None

refer to reinstatement interlock information below (other adverse action may impose interlock)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Evidence of Insurance - affidavit

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-7-406(1), CRS 42-7-406(2)(a),(b), CRS 42-2-127

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: Attorney advises his clients not to convert the 3 month revocation to a one month revocation followed by an additional 2 months suspension with probationary license.  Refer to Probationary License Warning If point suspension or other adverse action is imposed to increase the period of license loss, the risk may justify application for a probationary license.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

Probationary License - Second Revocation - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05

Eligibility.  not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible  If relevant, refer to Underage Alcohol Conviction

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-125(3) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

None

refer to reinstatement interlock information below (other adverse action may impose interlock)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(II)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: If point suspension or other adverse action is imposed following the first year non eligibility for probationary license, the risk thereafter likely justifies application  Nevertheless, refer to Probationary License and Interlock Warning.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

Probationary License - Third or Subsequent Revocation - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05

Eligibility.  not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible  If relevant, refer to Underage Alcohol Conviction

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-125(3) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

Written & Driving Test Requirement:

Yes

refer to reinstatement testing information below

Interlock Requirement:     

None

refer to reinstatement interlock information below (other adverse action may impose interlock)

Insurance Requirement:   

 

refer to reinstatement insurance information below 

Type of Insurance.  Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(II)

Educational Requirement: Yes refer to reinstatement educational information below

Attorney Recommendation to Clients: If point suspension or other adverse action is imposed following the first year non eligibility for probationary license, the risk thereafter likely justifies application  Nevertheless, refer to Probationary License and Interlock Warning.

Termination of Probationary License interim license loss  **  final termination  **  issuance limitations - once per 5 years

 

c. Reinstatement Information - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05
First Revocation - Reinstatement - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05
             refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-127(12), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  no requirement
4.  Insurance Requirement:

Insurance - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05 - First Revocation

Type of Insurance. 

Evidence of Insurance - affidavit

Period Required. 

requirement of all drivers to reinstate pursuant to suspension statute
Authority.  CRS 42-7-406(1), CRS 42-7-406(2)(a),(b), CRS 42-2-127

Insurance - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05 - First Revocation - Early Reinstatement

Type of Insurance. 

Evidence of Insurance - affidavit

Period

requirement of all drivers to reinstate pursuant to suspension statute
Authority.  CRS 42-7-406(1)(a), CRS 42-7-406(2)(a),(b), CRS 42-2-127
5.  Education required for reinstatement   CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
  Level I or II Alcohol Education
 
 
 
proof of enrollment or alcohol certification for reinstatement required

DMV Revocation
 
alcohol certification
CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I)

Court Conviction - Greater of Below:
Level I Alcohol Education or Education Ordered by the Court
CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(III)

   Alcohol Therapy
 

 
not required unless court ordered
DMV Revocation
 
alcohol certification
CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I)
Court Conviction - Greater of Below:
Level I Alcohol Education or Therapy Ordered by the Court
CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(III)

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

Second Revocation - Reinstatement - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05
            
refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-127(12), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  no requirement
4.  Insurance Requirement - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05 - Second Revocation

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

6 months or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(II)
5.  Education required for reinstatement  
     CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(II), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B),
persistent drunk driver CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
  Level II Alcohol Education proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
   Alcohol Therapy
 
proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation: 68 Hours in not less than 8 months

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

Third or Subsequent Revocation - Reinstatement - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05
            
refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-127(12), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  no requirement
4.  Insurance Requirement - "Baby DUI" Conviction BAC 0.02 - 0.05 - Third or Subsequent Revocation

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

1 year or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-7-408(1)(c)(II)
5.  Education required for reinstatement  
     CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(II), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B),
persistent drunk driver CRS 42-2-132.5(1.7)
  Level II Alcohol Education proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
   Alcohol Therapy
 
proof of enrollment or completion certificate required
Prior BAC Conviction or Revocation: 68 Hours in not less than 8 months

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

ALCOHOL OFFENSE CONVICTION
DUI * DWAI * DEAC - UNDERAGE PERSON

REVOCATION OR DENIAL  -  MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE

ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-125(1)(g)(II)
  Revocation or Denial
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

        General Information - Alcohol Offense Conviction - Underage Person
                T
his section refers to revocation under CRS 42-2-125(1)(g)(II) - conviction of an alcohol offense by a person under age 21
                Underlying offense - DUI - DEACDWAI offense - CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a)
        Revocation is mandatory pursuant to
CRS 42-2-125(1)(g)(II).  Upon receipt of conviction transcript from the court, the DMV will automatically take the adverse action against the Colorado driver license or Colorado driving privileges and send notice of revocation or denial to the driver via regular U.S. Mail.  Driver may then request (in writing) a hearing pursuant CRS 42-2-125(4).  Hearing will be held in the DMV district office closest to the residence of the driver.

CRS 42-2-125. Mandatory revocation of license and permit.
        (1) The department shall immediately revoke the license or permit of any driver or minor driver upon receiving a record showing that such driver has: ...
              (II) In the case of a minor driver, been convicted of an offense under section 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a) committed while such driver was under twenty-one years of age;

        Refer to vehicle forfeiture - legislative debate

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - Alcohol Offense Conviction - Underage Person
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of the
underlying DUI - DEACDWAI offense - CRS 42-4-1301(1) or (2)(a)
        2.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon the underlying conviction.
        4.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        5.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - Alcohol Offense Conviction - Underage Person

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - Alcohol Offense Conviction - Underage Person
  1 year CRS 42-2-125(2)  

Alcohol Offense Conviction - Underage Person revocation period above runs consecutive (back to back) to to any other adverse action suspension or revocation. CRS 42-2-125 §§ (3) & (5), CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(I)  That means the periods of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial would be stacked; one to run after the other.

b. Probationary License - Alcohol Offense Conviction - Underage Person - interim restricted license during restraint
  Not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible.
"
red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria
Regarding
probationary license restrictions & requirements, refer to reinstatement below
 
   

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-125(5) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

 
c. Revocation - Reinstatement Information - Alcohol Offense Conviction - Underage Person
                        refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-127(12), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  not required
4.  Insurance Requirement - Alcohol Offense Conviction - Underage Person

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B), CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(b)(II), CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)
5.  Education required for reinstatement - Alcohol Offense Conviction - Underage Person
  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
  Level II Alcohol Education
enrollment proof required
Alcohol Education Grid: Level II Alcohol Education Classes
proof of enrollment
  Alcohol Therapy
enrollment proof required
 
BAC 0.169 or Less Conviction:    68 Hours in not less than 8 months
BAC 0.17 or Greater Conviction: 86 Hours in not less than 10 months
proof of enrollment

If the total period of license restraint under this subparagraph (II) is not sufficient to allow for the completion of level II alcohol and drug education and treatment, or the documentation of completion of such education and treatment is incomplete at the time of reinstatement, proof of current enrollment in a level II alcohol and drug education and treatment program certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse pursuant to CRS 42-4-1301.3, on a form approved by the department, shall be filed with the department.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(III), CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(C)

  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

MINOR IN POSSESSION ALCOHOL CONVICTION
or
MINOR CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOL CONVICTION

REVOCATION OR DENIAL  -  MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE

ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-125(1)(m)  Revocation or Denial
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

        General Information - MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction
                This section refers to revocation under CRS 42-2-125(1)(m) - conviction of MIP - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol
                Underlying offense - underage possession or consumption of ethyl alcohol
                       CRS 12-47-901 (1) (b) or (1) (c), CRS 18-13-122 or any counterpart municipal charter or ordinance offense to such sections
        Revocation is mandatory pursuant to
CRS 42-2-125(1) (m).  Upon receipt of conviction transcript from the court, the DMV will automatically take the adverse action against the Colorado driver license or Colorado driving privileges and send notice of revocation or denial to the driver via regular U.S. Mail.  Driver may then request (in writing) a hearing pursuant CRS 42-2-125(4).  Hearing will be held in the DMV district office closest to the residence of the driver.

CRS 42-2-125. Mandatory revocation of license and permit.
        (1) The department shall immediately revoke the license or permit of any driver or minor driver upon receiving a record showing that such driver has: ...
              (m) Been convicted of violating section 12-47-901(1)(b) or (1)(c), C.R.S., or section 18-13-122(2), C.R.S., or any counterpart municipal charter or ordinance offense to such sections;

        Refer to vehicle forfeiture - legislative debate

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of the
underlying MIP offense - CRS 12-47-901 (1) (b) or (1) (c), CRS 18-13-122 or any counterpart municipal charter or ordinance offense to such sections
        2.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon the underlying
conviction.
        4.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        5.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction
  First offense: 3 months CRS 42-2-125(6)(a)  
  Second offense: 6 months CRS 42-2-125(6)(b)  
  Third or subsequent offense: 1 year CRS 42-2-125(6)(c)  

Note:  The former election between 3 months license revocation or 24 hours useful pubic service if ordered by the court which was provided by CRS 42-2-125 §§ (6)(a) and (6)(b) was repealed effective July 1, 2007.  Such election is no longer available.

MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction period above runs consecutive (back to back) to to any other adverse action suspension or revocation. CRS 42-2-125 §§ (3) & (5), CRS 42-2-126(6)(c)(I)  That means the periods of revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial would be stacked; one to run after the other.

b. Probationary License - MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction - interim restricted license during restraint
  Not eligible during the first year; thereafter eligible.
"
red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria
Regarding
probationary license restrictions & requirements, refer to reinstatement below
 
   

Note:  Revocation conversion to a 3 month suspension with probationary license permitted in Baby DEAC Revocation pursuant to CRS 42-2-126(6)(b)(II.5) does not exist under MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction CRS 42-2-125(1)(m)

 
   

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(I), CRS 42-2-125(5) and no statutory provision granting DOR discretion except CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5)(a) "A person whose privilege to drive has been revoked for more than one year because of a violation of any provision of CRS 42-4-1301 §§ (1)(a), (1b) or (2) or has been revoked for more than one year under any provision of CRS 42-2-126 may voluntarily apply for an early reinstatement with a restricted license under the provisions of this section after the person's privilege to drive has been revoked for one year.  The restrictions imposed pursuant to this section shall remain in effect for the longer of one year or the total time period remaining on the license restraint prior to early reinstatement."

 
c. Revocation - Reinstatement Information - MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction
                        refer to link Continuing License Loss Until Reinstatement
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-127(12), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  not required
4.  Insurance Requirement - MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction

Type of Insurance.  Evidence of Insurance - affidavit

Period Required.  duration of probationary license

Authority.  CRS 42-7-406(1), CRS 42-7-406(2)(a),(b), CRS 42-2-127

5.  Education required for reinstatement - MIP Revocation - Minor in Possession or Consumption of Alcohol Conviction
  CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
  Non-Driving Alcohol Education alcohol certification for reinstatement
  DMV Forms Application for Reinstatement Affidavit of Enrollment - Alcohol Education or Therapy
    Alcohol Certification for Reinstatement Interlock Agreement Affidavit Affidavit - Out of State Residency

NON-ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS

 

SUSPENSION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE

NON-ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-127  Suspension or Denial
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

       General Information - Point Suspension - Not Alcohol Related

       Adult, chauffeur, provisional and minor drivers' licenses have different numbers of points over different periods of time which result in suspension.  Please refer to the Point Structure page to determine age categorization and points which cause suspension.    If relevant, refer to chauffeur.

       Colorado law determines a specific period for which your driving privileges are suspended, revoked or denied. To determine the relevant period, one must review the relevant statute.  If a specific period is not set forth in the relevant statute, refer to the below base periods of point suspension.
If relevant, refer to
Point Suspension + Excessive Alcohol Revocation Point Suspension + BAC Test Refusal Index - Other License Loss Habitual Offender Revocation

 

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven - Point Suspension - Not Alcohol Related
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of each
underlying traffic offense or infraction.
        2.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon one or more of the underlying convictions.
        4.  Refer to
Potential Defenses for other defensive arguments.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        5.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation or suspension

Relevant Information - Point Suspension - Not Alcohol Related

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - Point Suspension - Not Alcohol Related - Suspension Base Period - Duration of License Loss
  Point suspensions have different base periods.  
  1 year Statutory point suspension period is mandatory 12 months for conviction of DUI, habitual user or DEAC (BAC 0.08 or above).  
   

DWAI is not included in the mandatory statutory point suspension period, but it is likely DOR hearing officer discretion will be 12 months - DWAI aggravator

 

 
  6 months Regulatory base period for non-alcohol point suspension  
  3 months Regulatory discretionary minimum period for non-alcohol point suspension  
  1 year Regulatory discretionary maximum period for non-alcohol point suspension  
   

DOR hearing officer will make fact findings to shorten or lengthen the period of suspension.  Refer to links for DOR Regulations

Factors re Suspension Period for Excessive Points Probationary (Red) License DOR Hearing Officer Discretion
 
 

CONTINUING LICENSE LOSS UNTIL REINSTATEMENT

        After the specified period of suspension, a driver is only eligible for reinstatement. A suspension, revocation or denial continues indefinitely (forever) until the driver has taken the steps necessary to become reinstated. If the driver is uncertain as to the date eligible to get the license back, during the period of your suspension, revocation or denial he / she should contact the Colorado Driver Services - Driver Control Section to determine the date eligible for reinstatement and what conditions must be fulfilled to become reinstated. Follow the above link for address and phone.  Even if the driver does not wish to obtain a Colorado driver's license - he / she should reinstate here to clear any adverse action - suspension, revocation or denial. Failure to do so will come back to haunt later if the adverse action is left pending.

        A person's driving status of "suspended" continues unless and until the driver obtains removal of the suspension at the end of the designated period of suspension by paying the restoration fee and providing the requisite proof of insurance.  Colorado Department of Revenue v. Brakhage, 735 P.2d 195, 197 (Colo. 1987).  Regardless of whether an expiration date is specified in a probationary license, such a probationary license is not valid beyond the period of suspension specified in the order of suspension.  Id. at 198 - 199

 

In the Brakhage case, the Colorado Supreme Court cut both ways against drivers.
                1. 
A suspension, revocation or denial does not end on the specified date in the DOR order, but continues indefinitely until cured.
                2. 
A probationary license does end on the specified date in the DOR order.  A driver may not operate a motor vehicle indefinitely on a probationary license.

 
b. Probationary License - Point Suspension - Not Alcohol Related - interim restricted license during restraint
        refer to above links for statutory authority to grant probationary license & determine restrictions thereon
  Eligibility determined by excessive alcohol revocation - links below.
"red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) may be available in the discretion of the DMV if you meet criteria
it is in the hearing officer's discretion (judgment) whether to grant the interim limited privileges
 
   

c. Suspension - Reinstatement Information - Point Suspension - Not Alcohol Related
                
As a general rule, a driver may reinstate as indicated below at the conclusion of a suspension.
                 Call DMV Driver Control Reinstatement to determine particular reinstatement requirements and eligibility date in your own circumstances.

1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office

2.  Written and driving tests:  generally, not required    CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6

Written and driving tests will be required if the driver has been suspended or otherwise without a license for a period of 1 year or longer.

3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  no requirement

4.  Insurance Requirement - Point Suspension - Not Alcohol Related

Type of Insurance. 

Evidence of Insurance - affidavit

Period Required. 

requirement of all drivers to reinstate pursuant to suspension statute
Authority.  CRS 42-7-406(1), CRS 42-7-406(2)(a),(b), CRS 42-2-127
5.  Education required for reinstatement - Point Suspension - Not Alcohol Related
CRS 42-2-126(7)(c), CRS 42-2-127(14)(a)(1)(A)
Generally, no education is required for reinstatement.  However, if ordered by the court, an educational requirement may be imposed for reinstatement at the time of initial point suspension or probationary license.  Refer to: Traffic Safety Classes

CRS 42-2-127(14)(a) (I) If there is no other statutory reason for denial of a probationary license, any individual who has had a license suspended by the department because of, at least in part, a conviction of an offense specified in paragraph (b) of subsection (5) of this section may be entitled to a probationary license pursuant to subsection (12) of this section for the purpose of driving for reasons of employment, education, health, or alcohol and drug education or treatment, but: (A) If ordered by the court that convicted the individual, the individual shall be enrolled in a program of driving education or alcohol and drug education and treatment certified by the division of alcohol and drug abuse in the department of human services;

DMV Forms:   Application for Reinstatement   Evidence of Insurance

POTENTIAL DEFENSES

SUSPENSION * REVOCATION * DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE

NON-ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS

 
 
 

        DMV has failed to provide adequate notice of hearing.  It periodically happens that the DMV fails to comply with hearing notice requirements, and thus has failed to acquire personal jurisdiction.  This would be a defense..

 

        DMV has assessed points or conviction against wrong person.  It periodically happens that when a court certifies a conviction and points to the DMV, the assessment is made against the wrong person.  Usually two persons have the same or similar names, but different dates of birth.  Error may have been made the law enforcement officer issuing the ticket, by a court clerk or by a DMV keypunch operator.  Certified copies of the court file (including the ticket) can be obtained from the originating court, introduced into evidence at DMV hearing.  Misidentification:
                deprives the DOR hearing officer of use of the "conviction" or points to support DMV adverse action order (suspension, revocation, denial or habitual offender status), or driver would have meritorious grounds for appeal.  Multiple Colorado cases have been decided regarding improper application of the law, however none have been decided specifically on the issue of misidentification.
                will not affect the underlying court proceedings - but, they pertain to someone else.
                may not be used as a subsequent driving under restraint criminal case jurisdictional attack.
                may be a defense in a subsequent driving under restraint criminal charge as a collateral attack (DMV order void for lack of personal jurisdiction).  However that is questionable.  DMV has subject matter jurisdiction over license actions and personal jurisdiction is acquired when the notice of hearing is served.  There is no Colorado appellate caselaw on the issue of whether misidentification deprives the DMV of personal jurisdiction to proceed with adverse action.  If not argued at DMV hearing, use of an improper conviction may be considered a mere error in application of the law and denial of criminal case collateral attack.

 

        Points not identified on traffic infraction penalty assessment.  Periodically a state court or municipal court traffic infraction penalty assessment has been paid by mail or paid at an expedited and simplified traffic violations bureau, and the law enforcement officer failed to provide notice on the traffic infraction penalty notice (ticket) of points for each relevant charge.  Certified copies of the court file (including the ticket) can be obtained from the originating court, introduced into evidence at DMV hearing.  Failure to provide notice of points:
                deprives the DOR hearing officer of use of the "conviction" or points to support DMV adverse action order (suspension, revocation, denial or habitual offender status), or driver would have meritorious grounds for appeal.  Three Colorado cases have been decided on point.  
                will not affect the underlying court proceedings or plea & payment.
                may not be used as a subsequent driving under restraint criminal case jurisdictional attack.
                may not be used as be a defense in a subsequent driving under restraint criminal charge as a collateral attack.  This issue does not rise to:
                        DMV order void for lack of personal jurisdiction
                        Deprivation of constitutionally protected right
                This prohibition of usage for DMV adverse action is not applicable if, in the underlying traffic case, the driver appeared in court and entered a guilty plea or was convicted at trial. 

 

        Municipal court default judgment - defendant failure to appear
        traffic infraction penalty assessment  
        Periodically the law enforcement officer issues a traffic infraction penalty notice (ticket) into municipal court, the driver failed to appear in municipal court and default judgment enters. Certified copies of the court file (including the ticket and the court register of action) can be obtained from the originating court, introduced into evidence at DMV hearing.  Municipal court FTA default judgment:
                deprives the DOR hearing officer of use of the "conviction" or points to support DMV adverse action order (suspension, revocation, denial or habitual offender status), or driver would have meritorious grounds for appeal.  One Colorado case has been decided on point.  
                will not affect the underlying court proceedings or the default judgment.
                may not be used as a subsequent driving under restraint criminal case jurisdictional attack.
                may not be used as be a defense in a subsequent driving under restraint criminal charge as a collateral attack.  This issue does not rise to:
                        DMV order void for lack of personal jurisdiction
                        Deprivation of constitutionally protected right
                will not affect the DMV noting the infraction plea on the consumer driving abstract
                        insurance rates may increase
                This prohibition of usage for DMV adverse action is not applicable if, in the underlying traffic case, the driver appeared in court and entered a guilty plea or was convicted at trial.
                Caveat:  Failure to appear will result in an outstanding judgment warrant fee ($30 in state court) which must be paid before a driver is eligible for license renewal or reinstatement.  OJW hold does not affect current validity, but is a hold against future licensing.

 

        Penalty assessment notice deficiencyPeriodically a penalty assessment notice fails to comply with the requirements of Colorado state law.  Certified copies of the court file (including the ticket) can be obtained from the originating court, introduced into evidence at DMV hearing.  This has arisen in the context of the PA notice failing to advise the defendant that payment constitutes a guilty plea and will be used as a conviction.   PA notice deficiency:
                deprives the DOR hearing officer of use of the "conviction" or points to support DMV adverse action order (suspension, revocation, denial or habitual offender status), or driver would have meritorious grounds for appeal.  One Colorado case has been decided on point.  
                will not affect the underlying court proceedings or the judgment - 
                        a separate collateral attack would be required in the underlying court proceedings
                        If the DOR is unable to use the "conviction" or points for DMV adverse action, in my opinion separate collateral attack would be a waste of time and money unless
                                the driver will incur significant insurance or employment consequences, such as hazmat CDL.
                                DMV uses "convictions" and points for a statutory period of time when issuing DMV adverse action notices (suspension, revocation, denial or habitual offender status) - see Point Structure page.  If the driver has no intent to be a law abiding citizen, but intends to be a "truly dangerous criminal" and anticipates receiving another minor traffic infraction or DUI within the near future, the same issue may arise before expiration of the point suspension period or the period for which revocation, denial or habitual offender status may enter.  If the driver is unable to control his / her behavior, collateral attack in the underlying court proceedings may be worthwhile.
                may not be used as a subsequent driving under restraint criminal case jurisdictional attack.
                may be a defense in a subsequent driving under restraint criminal charge as a collateral attack - (inadequate notice reaches constitutional proportions)  However that is questionable - no Colorado cases have been decided whether PA notice deficiency may be used as a collateral attack in a subsequent driving under restraint criminal charge.  If not argued at DMV hearing, use of an improper conviction may be considered a mere error in application of the law and denial of criminal case collateral attack.
                will not affect the DMV noting the infraction plea on the consumer driving abstract
                        insurance rates may increase
                This prohibition of usage for DMV adverse action is not applicable if, in the underlying traffic case, the driver appeared in court and entered a guilty plea or was convicted at trial.

 

        Constitutional deprivation - penalty assessment notice deficiency
        or summons and complaint traffic offense.:
        A penalty assessment notice may be defective to the degree of constitutional proportions, or
        In a traffic offense, misdemeanor traffic offense or misdemeanor offense in a providency hearing under C.R.Crim.P. 11, the court may fail to adequately advise the defendant of his / her constitutional rights
        Whether PA notice, traffic offense, misdemeanor traffic offense or misdemeanor offense this usually arises as failure to advise of the right to counsel, but may be other constitutional rights.  Certified copies of the court file (including the ticket, register of action and transcript of court proceedings) can be obtained from the originating court, introduced into evidence at DMV hearing.  Error of constitutional proportion:
               
deprives the DOR hearing officer of use of the "conviction" or points to support DMV adverse action order (suspension, revocation, denial or habitual offender status), or driver would have meritorious grounds for appeal.  Multiple Colorado cases have been decided on point.  
                will not affect the underlying court proceedings or the judgment - 
                        a separate collateral attack would be required in the underlying court proceedings
                        If the DOR is unable to use the "conviction" or points for DMV adverse action, in my opinion separate collateral attack would be a waste of time and money unless
                                the driver will incur significant insurance or employment consequences, such as hazmat CDL.
                                DMV uses "convictions" and points for a statutory period of time when issuing DMV adverse action notices (suspension, revocation, denial or habitual offender status) - see Point Structure page.  If the driver has no intent to be a law abiding citizen, but intends to be a "truly dangerous criminal" and anticipates receiving another minor traffic infraction or DUI within the near future, the same issue may arise before expiration of the point suspension period or the period for which revocation, denial or habitual offender status may enter.  If the driver is unable to control his / her behavior, collateral attack in the underlying court proceedings may be worthwhile.
                may not be used as a subsequent driving under restraint criminal case jurisdictional attack.
                may be used as a defense in a subsequent driving under restraint criminal charge as a collateral attack - (defect reaching constitutional proportions).  Multiple Colorado cases have been decided on point.
                will not affect the DMV noting the infraction or offense plea or conviction on the consumer driving abstract
                        insurance rates may increase

 

        The logic applied by Colorado appellate courts in this area is somewhat of a maze.  To simplify, each above defense will work in DMV adverse action hearings and appeal to district court should the DOR hearing officer rule against the driver.  Bottom line - except for DMV lack of jurisdiction or deprivation of constitutional rights in the underlying tickets, the arguments will not work as a collateral attack in driving under restraint criminal charges - if you snooze, you lose.  Driving under restraint criminal charges carry mandatory jail and some are felonies carrying penitentiary time.  If you have a license problem and your driver's license is important to you, it's a plan to consult an attorney as quickly as possible.

OUTSTANDING JUDGMENT WARRANT

SUSPENSION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE

ALCOHOL OR NON-ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
OJW SUSPENSION  *  OJW HOLD
CRS 42-2-107(5) & CRS 42-4-1709(7)

 
 
 
 
 
 

 

         a. Defendant has failed to appear for a court appearance

BWO - FTA  (Bench Warrant Ordered - Failure to Appear)

 

Warrant will issue for arrest of defendant

 

The court sets bail bond
The court sends notice to the DMV of the OJW and default judgment conviction is certified, including points
DMV imposes an OJW suspension or "OJW hold" on the Colorado driving privileges of the defendant

        CRS 42-2-122(1)  The department has the authority to cancel, deny, or deny the reissuance of any driver's or minor driver's license upon determining that the licensee was not entitled to the issuance thereof for any of the following reasons:...
                (h)(I) The person has an outstanding judgment or warrant referred to in section 42-4-1709(7) issued against such person; except that, as used in this paragraph (h), "judgment or warrant" shall not include any judgment or warrant reported to the department in violation of section 42-4-110.5(2)(c).
                    (II) Upon receipt of a judgment or warrant from a court clerk on or after September 1, 2000, the department shall send written notice to the person identified in the court order that such person is required to provide the department with proof that the judgment or warrant is no longer outstanding within thirty days after the date such notice is sent or such person's driver's license shall be canceled or any application for a new license shall be denied. Proof that the judgment or warrant is no longer outstanding shall be in the form of a certificate issued by the clerk of the court entering the judgment or issuing the warrant in a form approved by the executive director.
                    (III) If acceptable proof is not received by the department within thirty days after notice was sent, the department shall cancel the driver's license or deny any application for a license of the person against whom the judgment was entered or the warrant was issued.

        CRS 42-2-127(6)(b) For the purposes of this article, a plea of no contest accepted by the court or the forfeiture of any bail or collateral deposited to secure a defendant's appearance in court or the failure to appear in court by a defendant charged with a violation of CRS 42-4-1301(1)(a), (1)(c), or (2) (reference information - DUI, DWAI, DEAC, Baby DUI Underage BAC 0.02 - 0.05) who has been issued a summons and notice to appear pursuant to section 42-4-1707 as evidenced by records forwarded to the department in accordance with the provisions of section 42-2-124 shall be considered as a conviction.  Failure to appear will trigger all conviction adverse actions.

 

If the case is a minor traffic infraction and points will not be problematic, defendant may simply enter a plea, pay the fines & court costs + OJW fee.  That would be the end of court case.  Driver procures a a certified copy of the OJW clearance from the court

 

To clear the DMV OJW suspension, driver submits to the DMV
1.  Court certified OJW clearance
2.  Copy of the court receipt for payment of fines and costs
3.  DMV Forms:   Application for Reinstatement   Evidence of Insurance
4.  $60 reinstatement fee
DMV driving record will reflect the conviction, however the DMV will reinstate the Colorado driving privileges in 2 - 6 weeks no other reason exists for the driving privileges to be held under suspension, revocation or denial

 

If the case is a traffic offense or the conviction or points would be problematic, defendant may appear before the court or turn himself / herself in to the local Sheriff's Office in order that the warrant will be executed (ended).  Either way of appearing, defendant will likely process through the jailhouse and be required to post bond.

 

The court will set a new court date and the defendant proceeds to negotiation or trial in similar fashion to that if warrant had not issued
The court will send decertification of the conviction and points to the DMV
Defendant pays the OJW fee and procures a a certified copy of the OJW clearance from the court

DMV will remove the conviction and points from the driving record upon receipt of the court decertification

To clear the DMV OJW suspension, driver submits to the DMV
1.  Court certified OJW clearance
2.  Copy of the court receipt for payment of fines and costs
3.  DMV Forms:   Application for Reinstatement   Evidence of Insurance
4.  $60 reinstatement fee
DMV will reinstate the Colorado driving privileges in 2 - 6 weeks no other reason exists for the driving privileges to be held under suspension, revocation or denial.

Upon final disposition, the court will send a new certification of the final disposition to the DMV which will be reflected on the driving record if any conviction enters.

 

If retained, a defense attorney will file a motion to quash the warrant (cancel the warrant) without the appearance of the defendant.

 

An affidavit is included in the motion to quash (cancel) the warrant which offers any viable explanation why the defendant failed to appear.  the court will review the motion and supporting affidavit, then make the determination whether to quash without requiring appearance and bond, or whether to leave the warrant in place requiring bail bond.

If the motion to quash is granted, the attorney will set a new appearance date with the court, pay the OJW fee to the court and send the above identified information and payment to the DMV for reinstatement of Colorado driving privileges during the pendency of the traffic case.  As indicated above, DMV will reinstate pending final outcome of the traffic case.  Upon final disposition, the court will send a new certification of the final disposition to the DMV which will be reflected on the driving record if any conviction enters.

If the motion to quash is denied, the defendant may appear before the court or turn himself / herself in to the local Sheriff's Office in order that the warrant will be executed (ended) and the defendant will have posted bond.  Once the warrant has been executed and bond has been posted, the attorney will set a new appearance date with the court, pay the OJW fee to the court and send the above identified information and payment to the DMV for reinstatement of Colorado driving privileges during the pendency of the traffic case.  As indicated above, DMV will reinstate pending final outcome of the traffic case.  Upon final disposition, the court will send a new certification of the final disposition to the DMV which will be reflected on the driving record if any conviction enters.

From an attorney's perspective in defense of the case on the merits, it is irrelevant whether the court quashes the warrant or the defendant surrenders himself / herself.  Either way the case proceeds to defense on the merits.

From a defendant's perspective, particularly if the defendant is located out of state and travel time & expense is involved returning to Colorado, it is highly preferable if the court quashes the warrant absent appearance.

No attorney can guarantee in advance that the court will quash a warrant.  Be leary of any such statements.

 

A some point, courts may send fines, costs and the OJW fee to a collection agency.  Collection agency costs will be assessed & added.  El Paso County uses the below collection agency which will accept credit card or debit card payment via telephone.  The collection agency notifies the court in El Paso County of payments at the end of each day; OJW is generally cleared the following day by the court.

 

Integral Recoveries, Inc.
770 W. Hampden, Suite 150
Englewood , CO 80110
(800) 660-8450  
Email  

        b. Defendant has failed to comply - failure to pay fines and costs or restitution

BWO - FTC  (Bench Warrant Ordered - Failure to Comply)

 

In many circumstances, defendant may simply appear, pay the fines & court costs + OJW fee and restitution if relevant.  If so, that would be the end of court case.  Driver procures a a certified copy of the OJW clearance from the court. 

 

To clear the DMV OJW suspension, driver submits to the DMV
1.  Court certified OJW clearance
2.  Copy of the court receipt for payment of fines and costs
3.  DMV Forms:   Application for Reinstatement   Evidence of Insurance
4.  $60 reinstatement fee
DMV driving record will reflect the conviction, however the DMV will reinstate the Colorado driving privileges in 2 - 6 weeks no other reason exists for the driving privileges to be held under suspension, revocation or denial

 

In other circumstances, particularly if restitution was ordered but not paid, the court requires a show cause hearing to determine whether probation should be revoked and jail sentence imposed.  Call the court to determine the degree simplicity to cure.

      c. Defendant has failed to comply with other terms of court order & probation - e.g. traffic safety school, alcohol education, anger management, etc.

BWO - FTC 
Bench Warrant Ordered - Failure to Comply

POST SENTENCING MATTERS
PROBATION REVOCATION  *  PAROLE VIOLATION
DEFERRED SENTENCE REVOCATION  *  APPEALS

Post Sentencing.  I do not accept post sentencing matters in any criminal, DUI or traffic case unless I provided representation during the case in chief at the trial court level and am familiar with the facts, testimony and exhibits received into evidence, meritorious issues & rulings. That's been my policy for years.  Please do not call or inquire regarding post sentencing matters if you are not a former client. 

Alternatives
FIND A LAWYER

This includes plea to domestic violence or other criminal charge, DUI, DEAC or DWAI charge or other traffic charge and probation, deferred sentence, parole or incarceration or revocation proceedings based upon alleged failure to comply.

 

Exceptions.  If the underlying criminal case qualifies, refer to sealing criminal records.  I accept meritorious sealing cases regardless of whether or not you are a former client.  NOTICE: alcohol related traffic offenses, other traffic offenses or traffic infractions are a specifically excluded in the sealing statute and can not be sealed.  If relevant, I also accept meritorious collateral attack cases.

 

HABITUAL OFFENDER REVOCATION OR DENIAL
refer to above link for additional information

 
REVOCATION OR DENIAL - ADULT DRIVER'S LICENSE
MINOR OR PROVISIONAL DRIVER'S LICENSE
 
NON-ALCOHOL RELATED DMV ADVERSE ACTIONS
CRS 42-2-201, et. seq.   Revocation or Denial
CRS 42-2-201, CRS 42-2-202, CRS 42-2-203, CRS 42-2-204, CRS 42-2-205, CRS 42-2-206

 

        a.  General Information - Habitual Offender - Not Alcohol Related
             Criteria:
                  Major offenses:  Conviction of three separate major offenses occurring within a period 7 years.  CRS 42-2-202(2)
                        alcohol related offenses -
DUI - DEACDWAI
                        reckless driving
                        driving under suspension, revocation or denial - driving under restraint
                        giving false information to the DMV
                        vehicular assault, vehicular homicide, or manslaughter or criminally negligent homicide which results from operation of a motor vehicle or joyriding
                        hit and run in any accident involving death or personal injuries
                        All convictions must be separate and distinct - not arising out of the same criminal episode
                  Minor traffic offenses and infractions:  CRS 42-2-202(3)
                        Minor traffic offenses & infractions can also be the basis for alcohol related habitual offender status if an alcohol related offense is included in convictions
                        10 or more separate moving violation offense or infraction convictions (4 points or greater) for acts committed within 5 years
                        18 or more separate moving violation offense or infraction convictions (3 points or less) for acts committed within 5 years
             Revocation is mandatory pursuant to
CRS 42-2-205, however pursuant to CRS 42-2-203, hearing procedure similar to CRS 42-2-127§§ (7)(13) is mandated.  Notice of hearing is sent to the driver via regular U.S. Mail.  Hearing will be held in the DMV district office closest to the residence of the driver.
             Refer to vehicle forfeiture - legislative debate

        Basic Elements which Must be Proven to Revoke - Habitual Offender - Not Alcohol Related.
        1.  The person identified as Respondent was the driver convicted of each
underlying major offenses or minor traffic offenses and infractions
        2.  Defense 1:  A primary defense would be that the court has made clerical error and identified Respondent as convicted of an offense committed by a different person or DMV has made clerical error and applied a conviction for a different person to the Respondent's driving record, or has otherwise tagged the Respondent with a conviction which does not pertain to the Respondent driver.
        3.  Defense 2 Collateral Attack upon one or more of the underlying convictions.
        4.  Refer to habitual offender page Potential Defenses for other defensive arguments.  No other defenses exist of which publishing attorney is aware.
        5.  Colorado DMV Appeal - information regarding appeal from DMV license revocation

Relevant Information - Habitual Offender - Not Alcohol Related

a. Period of Driving Privilege Loss - Habitual Offender - Not Alcohol Related
  5 years CRS 42-2-205(a)  
b. Probationary License - Habitual Offender - Not Alcohol Related - interim restricted license during restraint
  Not eligible - DMV has no statutory power or discretion
"
red license" to drive back and forth to work or on the job) is not available - interlock license is not available in non-alcohol revocations
 
   

During the period of habitual offender revocation or denial, the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles can not issue any driving privileges whatsoever, except interlock.

 
   

Authority.  CRS 42-2-205. Prohibition.
        (1) No license to operate motor vehicles in this state shall be issued to an habitual offender, nor shall an habitual offender operate a motor vehicle in this state:
                (a) For a period of five years from the date of the order of the department finding such person to be an habitual offender except as may be permitted by section 42-2-132.5; and
                (b) Until such time as financial responsibility requirements are met.

 
   

Where the habitual offender finding is not alcohol related, the DMV does not have statutory authority to issue an interlock probationary license.

 
   

Authority.  CRS 42-2-132.5(1.5) early reinstatement interlock restricted probationary license provisions:
       
(c) No person who has been designated an habitual offender under the provisions of CRS 42-2-202 for any offense other than a violation of CRS 42-4-1301, 42-2-138, or 42-4-1401 shall be eligible for a restricted license pursuant to this subsection (1.5).

 
c. Revocation - Reinstatement Information - Habitual Offender - Not Alcohol Related
1.  Application for reinstatement: by mail only to DMV Driver Control Section - Reinstatement  - not allowed at any DMV Office
2.  Written and driving tests:  mandatory.  CRS 42-2-126(7)(c)(I), CRS 42-2-127(12), CRS 42-2-111, DOR Regulation 1 CCR 204-6
3.  Mandatory interlock restricted license:  not applicable - not alcohol related
4.  Insurance Requirement - Habitual Offender - Not Alcohol Related

Type of Insurance. 

Mandatory SR-22 Insurance 

Period Required. 

3 years or period of license restriction (longer period)
Authority.  CRS 42-2-132(2)(a)(II)(B), CRS 42-7-408(1)(b)
5.  Education required for reinstatement - Habitual Offender - Not Alcohol Related
            not applicable - not alcohol related

 
Uninsured Motorist Suspension
Compulsory Insurance - DMV Notice Issued by Law Enforcement Officer  CRS 42-2-127.7
Suspension Hearing Procedures
Uninsured Motorist - DMV Notice  CRS 42-2-127.7
Uninsured Motorist Suspension
Compulsory Insurance Charge - Court Conviction
Seizure of Vehicle License Plates
Compulsory Insurance  CRS 42-7-605
FRA Suspension - Financial Responsibility Act 
CRS 42-7 §§ 101, 202, 301, 303
Accident Report Forms and Other DMV Forms
SR-22 Proof of Insurance
now just what is this thing?
 

DMV Addresses and Links Driving Abstracts and Records DMV Point Structure On-Line Colorado Driving Records
Driver License & Hearing Defense DMV Appeal Legal Research Selected Statutes & Regs "Red" License & Interlock Devices
Insurance Actions SR-22 Insurance Habitual Traffic Offender Interstate Compact Accident Reports & DMV Forms
DMV Hearing
Defense
DMV Appeal
statute of limitations

Driving in Colorado is a constitutionally protected privilege, but nevertheless a privilege which may be lost.  Multiple statutes can cause loss of driving privileges for different driver behavior.  Drivers are entitled to a DMV hearing.  In some circumstances the right to hearing precedes potential DMV adverse action; under other Colorado traffic laws the adverse order is entered, then the driver is provided notice of the adverse action and right to request subsequent hearing.  If hearing has been held or a DMV final order has otherwise entered and the Colorado driver's license or Colorado driving privileges have been suspended, revoked or denied, the driver's remaining recourse is appeal to the District Court.  DMV appeal is subject to a statute of limitations.  Right to appeal may be lost if the driver delays.  Upon final order in the District Court, either party make take the case on appeal to the Colorado Court of Appeals.  Refer to links for information.

CSPD Accident Cold Report    due within 72 hours of accident
obtain hardcopy cold report from CSPD Police Operations Center
State of Colorado On-Line Accident Report
accident report obsolete 8/4/04 unless no officer accident report
 

INDEPENDENT SERVICE PROVIDERS
private investigators * process service * laboratories * transcription
refer to attorney-client privilege and attorney work product doctrine

ADVICE BY LAYMEN
forewarned is forearmed
advice by unsupervised paralegals & street corner lawyers

DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY?
DRIVER LICENSE DEFENSE

 

Do I need an attorney?

You must make your own determination whether you believe representation is needed based upon your knowledge of pending DMV proceedings and applicable law, the facts of your particular case, the likelihood of success on the merits, your financial resources and the importance you assign to your driving privileges.  Bluntly but succinctly put - your consequences - your pocket book - your judgment call.  At least with DMV adverse actions, as the constipated buffalo says:  "this too shall pass."

 

  If you decide to save the $$ and not hire counsel, are unfamiliar with DMV procedures, law or defense and you lose the license, don't drive until you become reinstated, re-licensed and insured.  You would risk mandatory jail driving under restraint.

 
 
 

ATTORNEY'S FEES AND COSTS
DMV HEARING DEFENSE  **  DRIVER LICENSE DEFENSE
Colorado Traffic Defense and Criminal Defense Trial Practice 30+ Years

 
 
 
 
 
map * travel policy - time & expenses * travel rates click jitney for travel tables
outside El Paso County
 

Attorney does not accept DMV alcohol hearings absent representation in the underlying DUI case.  Collateral attack - setting aside a former guilty plea or conviction.  Refer to the statute of limitations noted in that webpage - lapse of time may be problematic.  Collateral attack occurs in the court of conviction and is independent from a DMV license hearing.  Attorney fees and costs are billed in each case; not one combined fee.  Defense against license loss with collateral attack becomes a bit expensive - refer to collateral attack fees and costs.

 

hourly fees may be less than offered flat fees, however are not capped and more likely may exceed offered flat fees
hourly fee option election by client --- payment of flat fee + estimated costs total trust deposit required to retain
trust deposit overage - refunded at case conclusion   **   undercapitalization - immediate trust deposit required
CLIENT'S INITIAL ELECTION RE FLAT FEE OR HOURLY FEES SHALL BE BINDING AND FINAL

 

 

attorney does not accept installment payments  *  full payment is due at the time attorney is retained  *  major charge cards accepted

 

DEFENSE OF DMV DRIVER LICENSE SUSPENSION * REVOCATION * DENIAL ACTIONS
 
Colorado Springs Attorney Robert D. Gustafson
ATTORNEY FEES

LITIGATION COSTS DEPOSIT

 
 

$ 750  
$ 150  
 
common trust deposit request
including attorney's fees & litigation costs - excluding travel
additional cost deposit may be requested as trial preparation proceeds & anticipated litigation expenses solidify

$900*

 

 
 
 
* this shall not constitute an offer, nor be construed as a binding estimate
Out of pocket litigation cost expenditures are the client's responsibility - trust deposit for attorney fees & costs noted above.

At the time of the first visit, a prospective client will be given a quote for fees and estimated costs. The quote will be honored for a period of seven (7) days, after which quotes are subject to change without notice if this office has not been retained.  Fee quote and costs trust deposit is dependent upon the facts and circumstances of each individual case.  Attorney fee options + litigation costs: hourly fees or hearing limited flat fee at client's discretion - client's initial election is final.  Litigation costs are not included in fees - client's obligation.  Attorney is a sole practitioner with need to manage his caseload.  Pending proposed client acceptance and payment, retainer agreement proposals are subject to withdrawal.  Attorney reserves the right to decline any case.  Refer to:  a) first consultation  b) attorney fees * costs * billings page  c) additional information.

Client authorization is obtained for any large cost expense.  Final expenditure may run less or client may periodically be asked for additional amounts to be deposited to trust if fees and costs will exceed previous deposits. 

Client will be provided with a trust accounting and itemized billing statement when there has been activity on the account.  At the end of each case, a detailed accounting summary is provided and remaining trust proceeds are refunded.

trust deposit for anticipated fees & costs is due when retained

attorney does not accept installment payments

regular billings are scheduled on the 1st and 15th
if fees and costs are not paid as agreed, representation is withdrawn

 
PARTIAL LIST OF POTENTIAL COSTS
out of pocket costs are the responsibility of the client
appellate e-Filing District Court mandatory requirements
eService personal service of process
litigation costs fluctuate - not within attorney control
note: costs change & below cost information may be obsolete
 
link to Colorado Judicial Branch website
current costs information published by state
COLORADO STATE
COURT COSTS & FILING FEES
DMV Transcriptionists
generic costs litigation generic costs criminal
    Potential Expenses
Price   Client Background Search
Varies   DMV Out of State Driving Record
10.00   Accident Report
20.00   Offense Report
25.00   DMV discovery packet - estimate (actual may be more or less)
10.00   DA Office discovery packet - estimate (actual may be more or less)
10.00   Court records search & copy costs (actual may be more or less)
10.00   Copy expense at courthouse for prior offense files (estimate - may vary)
Varies   Traffic Safety Class
75.00   Public Service supervision fee
37.50   OJW fee to court (outstanding judgment warrant) - anticipating Integral Recoveries collection agency referral costs
95.00   DMV reinstatement fee
4.40   DMV clearance letter - certified copy of Colorado driving abstract
500.00   Private Investigator - variable based upon number of witnesses to interview
200.00   Law enforcement 911 / dispatch records, tapes & transcript - widely variable
200.00   Subpoena process service expense - depends on number of subpoenas issued
$3 per page  250.00   Transcriptionist - law enforcement 911 / dispatch audio files & investigator interview audio recordings if relevant
Varies   On-line legal research - dependent upon issues requiring legal research, if any
Rates   Travel time and expenses if the case is outside El Paso County
    Alcohol or Substance Testing & Testimony if Relevant
165.00   Toxicology - BAC Ethanol (alcohol) only
215.00   Toxicology - BAC Ethanol (alcohol) + NaFl (preservative)
consult counsel or lab
 
  Toxicology - UA qualitative or quantitative toxicology screen for marijuana, substance quantitative toxicology screen for marijuana or
                         qualitative and quantitative drug screen
3,000
 
  Laboratory - Toxicologist testimony hourly fees and travel mileage  -  if expert testimony relevant
                          misdemeanor hourly rate $350 - 5 hours travel time + minimum 1.5 hours court time

CAVEAT: Not all above costs will be relevant to any given case, and additional expenses not identified may be incurred in any individual case.  Costs quoted are subject to change by independent providers; actual costs paid will be billed.  *limited search pricing*  Refer to collateral attack fees and costs

 
 
****************************** ****************************** ******************************
 
First Consultation Accounting Structure Hourly Fees Costs Flat Fee - Definition
Settlement Phase Contested Phase Settlement Flat Fee Trial Flat Fee
Flat Fees - Phases Earned Compare Hourly vs Flat Fees Client's Election Final Travel Time & Expenses
Security for Fees & Costs Trust Account Withdrawal or Termination Alternatives to Private Counsel
Client Duty to Disclose Omission or Non-Disclosure Attorney Selection Retaining Gustafson Advice by Laymen

Thank you for considering my services; I appreciate your inquiry.

please feel free to call or email if you are a client or are seeking representation

DISCLOSURES
Privacy
 
Notice & Disclaimer
 
Ethics & Client Disclosures
 applicable whether site visitor
reads or not

 
INITIAL CONSULTATION TERMS
not an offer for legal advice - refer to link
attorney is a sole practitioner with need to manage his caseload
attorney reserves the right to decline any legal matter

PRIMARY WEBSITE

 

GUSTAFSON LAW OFFICE TOPICAL WEBSITES

DUI DEFENSE - DWAI & DEAC DRUNK DRIVING DEFENSE MIP - UNDERAGE ALCOHOL TRAFFIC TICKET DEFENSE DRIVING UNDER RESTRAINT SPEEDING TICKET DEFENSE
HIT AND RUN DEFENSE DRIVER LICENSE DEFENSE CRIMINAL DEFENSE PROSTITUTION DEFENSE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DEFENSE
SEALING CRIMINAL RECORDS NUISANCE FORFEITURE DEFENSE SHOPLIFTING - THEFT DEFENSE
FAMILY LAW DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE COLORADO DIVORCE LEGAL SEPARATION STEP-PARENT ADOPTION GRANDPARENT ADOPTION
PATERNITY - LEGAL PARENTAGE CHILD SUPPORT SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT RESTRAINING ORDERS DEBT COLLECTION PRIVATE INVESTIGATORS

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Colorado Dept. of Revenue    

     Colorado DOR

Colorado Department of Revenue, Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
Colorado Dept. of Motor Vehicles Colorado DMV Colorado MVD
Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles Colorado Department of Revenue, Hearing and Appeals Division

Website Copyright © 2003 - All Rights Reserved - Document Revised January 30, 2012
mountains photo image, attorney photo image & law office logo copyright © Robert D. Gustafson - all rights reserved - no copyright claimed to other images
Website Initial Publication Date: October 18, 2003 - Republication Date:
July 22, 2011

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