How Long Does A DUI Stay On Your Record In Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) conviction has long-term ramifications and will remain on your criminal record permanently.

Unlike some other states that allow for the expungement or sealing of certain criminal records after a specified period, Colorado does not provide a mechanism to remove or expunge a DUI conviction from your criminal history.

Criminal Record

A DUI conviction in Colorado will become part of your permanent criminal record. This can have significant implications for various aspects of your life, including employment opportunities, housing applications, and any situation where a background check is conducted.

The permanence of the conviction on your criminal record means that future DUI offenses will be treated as subsequent offenses, which generally carry more severe penalties.

DMV Record 

In addition to the criminal record, a DUI will also appear on your driving record, which is maintained by the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The length of time a DUI stays on your driving record can affect your insurance rates and eligibility for certain driving-related employment. While the DUI remains permanently on your criminal record, it generally stays on your DMV record for a period of 10 years.

Penalties and Consequences

The penalties for a DUI conviction in Colorado can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the level of intoxication, whether it’s a first-time or repeat offense, and whether the DUI resulted in injury or death. Penalties may include fines, jail time, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, and the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle.

For a first-time DUI offense, penalties may include a license suspension for nine months, fines ranging from $600 to $1,000, up to one year in jail, and mandatory public service. Penalties escalate for second and subsequent offenses, including longer license suspensions, higher fines, and longer jail sentences.

Insurance Impact

Insurance companies generally consider individuals with a DUI conviction to be high-risk drivers. This designation can result in significantly higher auto insurance premiums. Insurance companies will likely check your driving record, and a DUI conviction could impact your insurance rates for many years.

Employment Implications

Given that the DUI conviction remains on your permanent criminal record, it may also affect your employment prospects. Employers who conduct background checks will see the DUI conviction. Depending on the nature of the job and the employer’s policies, a DUI could disqualify you from certain types of employment, particularly those involving driving or the operation of heavy machinery.

In the state of Colorado, a DUI conviction has enduring consequences and remains on your criminal record permanently. It stays on your DMV record for 10 years and can affect various aspects of your life, including employment, insurance rates, and even housing opportunities.

Due to the lasting implications and penalties associated with a DUI conviction in Colorado, you need the best DUI lawyer if you find yourself facing such charges.