Colorado DUI convictions can trigger ignition-interlock installs, SR-22 insurance and extended education requirements

Colorado drivers who face a DUI offense may encounter insurance and license-reinstatement consequences, including ignition-interlock installation costs, SR-22 insurance filings and mandatory education, a meeting commenter said. "Colorado drivers may not know after a DUI offense there may be insurance and license reinstatement consequences," the commenter said.

Why it matters: These requirements can create ongoing monthly costs and administrative tasks that affect personal and work schedules if a driver seeks to regain driving privileges.

Details cited by the commenter included installation and monthly fees for ignition-interlock devices, mandatory education, and insurance-certification requirements. "If a driver refuses to take the breath or blood with the law enforcement on the side of the road, driver may be required to install the ignition interlock device that can cost up to $150 per install, and monthly fees can cost up to $85 a month," the commenter said. The commenter added that "in most cases, it's a mandatory 2 year interlock requirement, also a mandatory level 2 education therapy classes. These classes run from 1 year or more. If there are any attendance issues, your license could be suspended."

On insurance, the commenter explained that one reinstatement requirement is adding an SR-22 filing to the policy and that it can raise premiums. "In order to get your license back, 1 of the reinstatement requirements is adding SR 22 to your insurance policy, which then is an increase in cost of your insurance premium," the commenter said. They further said the SR-22 requirement "could range from 9 months to 3 years" and that the SR-22 "could be up to 50% more on your premium." The commenter noted insurers are required to submit the SR-22 certificate to the DMV to show liability coverage.

The commenter also described nonfinancial burdens for drivers seeking reinstatement, including scheduling appointments with the driver's license office and maintaining required documents. "To reinstate your driving privileges, it takes away from your personal or work life having to schedule an appointment with the driver's license office or maintaining all the documents needed to reinstate your driving privileges," the commenter said. The remarks concluded with practical advice: "Anyone can avoid a DUI in Colorado. Plan ahead, call a friend, use rideshare. It's just not worth it."

No formal action, vote or policy change was recorded in the transcript of these remarks; the comments were informational and advisory in nature.