So, you got a DUI in Denver. Maybe it was a few drinks at a concert. Maybe it was a misunderstanding. Maybe your Uber canceled and your judgment wasn’t at its best. Whatever the reason, you’re now facing something much bigger than a ticket — and your driver’s license is on the line.
The good news? You’re not powerless. The bad news? You’ve got two different legal systems ready to bring the hammer down — and they don’t exactly communicate like best friends.
Let’s break it all down: how a DUI in Denver affects your license, how the DMV and the courts handle things differently, and most importantly, how you can fight back.
DUI in Denver Means Two Battles: Court and DMV
Most people don’t realize this until it’s too late, but getting charged with DUI in Denver means you’re suddenly dealing with two different cases:
- The DMV case, which decides what happens to your license.
- The criminal case, which decides what happens to your record, your fines, and maybe your freedom.
These are separate. Like oil and water. You can win one and lose the other — which is why it’s so important to act fast. For information about the DMV process in Colorado, check out their website at https://dmv.colorado.gov/the-dui-process.
The DMV Side: The Clock Is Ticking
Let’s start with the Colorado DMV. As soon as you’re arrested for DUI in Denver, the officer will hand you something called a Notice of Express Consent Affidavit and Notice of Revocation. Sounds like a Harry Potter spell, but trust us, it’s serious.
You have 7 days — that’s it — to request a DMV hearing. If you don’t, your license will be automatically revoked, no trial, no argument, just gone. The length of revocation depends on whether this is your first offense, whether you refused testing, and your BAC level.
🛑 DMV Penalties May Include:
- License revocation for 9 months (first-time DUI with BAC ≥ 0.08%)
- 2-year revocation for repeat offenses
- 1-year revocation for chemical test refusal
- Special Insurance requirements called SR-22
- Persistent Drunk Driver designation and longer SR-22 requirements
- Ignition Interlock Device requirement for reinstatement
- Mandatory alcohol education classes
The DMV hearing is your chance to challenge the evidence — the officer’s report, the BAC results, the legality of the stop — and possibly avoid the license suspension entirely. But here’s the catch: it’s not automatic. You have to request that hearing within 7 days or lose your shot!
The Criminal Court Case: More Than Just Jail Time
Separately, you’ll have to deal with the criminal component of a DUI in Denver courts. This is where you’ll face fines, potential jail time, probation, community service, and yes — even more license consequences if you’re convicted. The DMV won’t double down on the length of revocation or other penalties, but even if you win your DMV hearing, your license can later be suspended if you’re convicted of the 12-point DUI conviction for points alone. It’s a handy little racket that they have going.
Court-Imposed License Penalties Can Include:
- Points on your driving record
- Additional license suspension
- Extended ignition interlock time
- Probation restrictions
So even if you win at the DMV, a conviction for DUI in Denver courts can still affect your ability to drive. But the reverse is true, too — you can beat the DUI in court and still lose your license via the DMV process. It’s a bureaucratic masterpiece. Or nightmare. Take your pick.
How to Fight Back and Keep Your License
The best thing you can do after a DUI arrest is get help fast — and that means hiring a defense attorney who knows how to handle both court and DMV battles. A good DUI lawyer can:
- Request your DMV hearing before the deadline
- Issue Subpoenas to the officer to appear on your DMV hearing
- Challenge the legality of the stop or arrest
- For the DMV only–challenge that the BAC was tested within 2 hours (this isn’t a defense in criminal court)
- Dispute the reliability of the breath or blood test
- Negotiate for reduced charges or a deferred sentence
- Help you qualify for early reinstatement or limited driving privileges
And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth it — ask yourself this: How much would it cost you to not drive for the next 9–12 months? Between work, kids, appointments, and sanity, your license is more valuable than you think. Isn’t it worth knowing that you did everything possible to keep your driving privileges, even if those privileges come with strings attached?
Ignition Interlock Devices: Your New (Annoying) Co-Pilot
If your license is revoked, Colorado law may allow you to get it back early — but with conditions. Specifically, an Ignition Interlock Device, which requires you to blow into it every time you want to start your car.
Yes, it’s annoying. Yes, it’s expensive. But it may be the only way to legally drive during your revocation period. The duration and eligibility depend on your case, BAC level, and whether you refused testing. Think of it like a breathalyzer and a tattletale had a baby. That’s your new passenger riding shotgun.
Denver DUI License FAQs
Q: If I win my DUI case in court, do I automatically get my license back?
A: Nope. The DMV is a separate process. You must win both your court case and your DMV hearing to avoid all license consequences.
Q: What if I refused the test?
A: That triggers a mandatory 1-year revocation and ignition interlock requirement — even if your case gets dismissed later.
Q: Can I still drive to work or school?
A: No “red licenses” don’t exist any longer in Colorado. However, you may qualify for early reinstatement or a restricted license, but you’ll need to meet strict criteria and install an interlock device.
Q: Is there more detail that you can provide about a DUI and DMV consequences?
A: Yes, thank you for asking… Consider taking a look at the posts here: https://colawteam.com/blog/dmv-consequences/ and here: https://colawteam.com/blog/what-happens-if-you-refuse-a-breathalyzer-in-denver/. Also, feel free to reach out for help by scheduling an appointment any time at https://app.lawmatics.com/forms/share/65b0e11e-5224-4814-a3b6-64ebf7ab03ea.
Don’t Let a DUI in Denver Take Your License Without a Fight
Losing your license is more than just a hassle — it can cost you your job, your freedom, and your peace of mind. The system isn’t set up to be forgiving, but with the right help, you can protect your rights and start turning things around.
📞 Call our Denver DUI defense team today: 970-670-0738. Let’s save your license and get you back on track — no judgment, just solid legal help from lawyers who know the system and how to beat it.
Related: DUI with a Child in the Car: Colorado’s Child Abuse Laws & Penalties