After a DUI in Colorado, you may be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) to regain your driving privileges. Not sure what to expect? Smart Start is here to help. Keep reading to learn more about DUIs and the Ignition Interlock process in Colorado.
To get your license reinstated after a DUI in Colorado, you’ll need to follow the steps of the DUI administrative process, as described by the Colorado DMV, which operates separately from the DUI court process.
The following is general information, not legal advice, about the conditions you might have to complete before applying for a reinstated license.
Consult Your Legal Counsel
Request a Motor Vehicle Hearing
Schedule Installation
Obtain SR-22 Certificate
Assessment and Education
Pay Fees and Complete Forms
Service Appointments
Removal or Early Removal
Information as of Dec 1, 2025.
Please note that the information in the following sections is for general informational purposes only. The materials contained herein are not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as a legal opinion or legal advice or to address all circumstances that might arise. Information may be dated and may not reflect the most current developments. You should contact your attorney to obtain advice with respect to any particular legal matter. Only your individual attorney can provide assurances that the information contained herein – and your interpretation of it – is applicable or appropriate to your particular situation. Smart Start expressly disclaims all liability regarding actions taken or not taken based on any or all content.
We know that navigating a DUI or DWAI can be overwhelming. Understanding the requirements and process after an alcohol related driving offense in Colorado is an important step to getting back on the road. We’ve put together some general information to help you get started.
According to Colorado law, if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08 or more, you are driving under the influence (DUI). If your BAC is between 0.05 and 0.079 and an officer suspects you are unable to safely drive your vehicle due to drugs or alcohol, you may face a Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) offense.
Additionally, as defined by Colorado law, you may be considered a Persistent Drunk Driver (PDD) if your BAC is 0.15 or more or if you refuse chemical testing, which could result in additional penalties.
Colorado has two paths in the DUI process, as described by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which operate separately from one another and on their own timelines.
The DUI administrative process: The Colorado DMV administers any restrictions on your driving privileges. It’s important to know that in the first 7 days after a DUI arrest, you have the opportunity to request a hearing with the Colorado Motor Vehicle Hearings Division before driving restrictions begin.
The DUI court process: The Colorado Judicial Branch determines any criminal penalties, which may include fines, jail time, alcohol and drug treatment, and other consequences.
Depending on your BAC when arrested, as well as whether it was your first DUI, you may be able to have your license reinstated if you install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle. You can contact the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at (303) 205-5600 to verify your eligibility and requirements.
As described by the Colorado DMV, if you were arrested for a first DUI after Jan. 1, 2023, you may be required to have an IID for 9 months. You may also be eligible for early removal of the Interlock in CO if you demonstrate strict compliance with the program requirements.
For a first DUI with a BAC above 0.15, a second or subsequent DUI, or if you refused a chemical test, you may be required to have an IID for 2 years.
Colorado is one of a few states that has an additional category of impaired driving offense besides DUI, called DWAI or Driving While Ability Impaired. Some drivers may be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device to regain their driving privileges after a DWAI.
We understand that a DUI can be a major financial challenge, so we offer an affordable solution for getting your Ignition Interlock in CO.
Free, fast, and customized quotes from our friendly Program Advisors
No long-term contracts required
Affordable pricing Note that Colorado also offers financial assistance for obtaining an IID if you meet certain financial requirements. For more information on the cost of an Ignition Interlock near you, see our IID cost guide for Colorado.
Your DUI doesn’t have to define your life. With our knowledgeable Program Advisors who are ready to listen and address your needs, Smart Start is here to help you get on the road to a brighter future.
No need to buy equipment or sign long-term contracts
Dozens of service centers, often with same-day installation options
24/7/365 multilingual customer support
Easy-to-use Interlock Device technology 
As part of your Ignition Interlock requirement and getting your license reinstated, the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may require specific forms to be completed. Here’s a quick overview of some of these forms, which can be found on the Colorado DMV’s website.
Used by individuals to agree to install and maintain an Ignition Interlock Device as a condition of obtaining a restricted driver’s license after a DUI.
Used by individuals seeking to have their driving privileges reinstated after a DUI and may require the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device as part of the reinstatement conditions.
Used by individuals required to complete Level II Drug and Alcohol Education and Treatment as a condition for the reinstatement of driving privileges.
It’s important to thoroughly understand how IIDs work, and what you’ll need to do to stay in compliance with your program. Get fast answers to your most common questions about Interlocks in Colorado.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
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How Does It Work?
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How Do I Get An Appointment?
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How Can We Help?
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What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
How much does an IID cost in Colorado?
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
What if I have an Ignition Interlock requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
What happens if I receive an Ignition Interlock violation?
What do I need to bring to my installation appointment?
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
What do I need for removal?
What is an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
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What Is An Ignition Interlock Device (IID)?
How much does an IID cost in Colorado?
How do I know if Smart Start’s devices are compliant with my program?
What if I have an Ignition Interlock requirement, but I don’t own a vehicle?
How Does It Work?
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How often does my IID need to be serviced?
Where can I go for Ignition Interlock service?
Where do I send a record of my service appointments?
What happens if I receive an Ignition Interlock violation?
How Do I Get An Appointment?
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What do I need to bring to my installation appointment?
What should I bring back to my state authority after my device is installed?
How Can We Help?
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What do I need for removal?
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