If you are driving after you have been drinking and you get pulled over, you will get arrested for DUI, or driving under the influence. (Don’t miss our recent blog post on what you should do if you have been arrested.) If you have received a DUI, you will lose your driver’s license for a specified period of time. Obviously, this is a concern because it will impact your ability to get yourself to and from work. Your Denver criminal defense lawyer John L. Buckley will work hard to protect your rights and get you back on track after a license revocation.

Here are answers to some of your questions about losing your license in the state of Colorado.

In What Situations Will My Driver’s License Be Revoked?

You can expect your license to be revoked for the following offenses:
● Driving under the influence
● Driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 percent or more (or .04 percent or more for commercial license)
● Driving under the influence of drugs
● Driving under the influence of marijuana
● Underage drinking and driving
● Refusing a chemical test
● Accumulating too many points on your Colorado driving record

For How Long Will I Lose My License?

This will depend on the specific charge you are facing and whether you are a first-time or a repeat offender. The minimum time you can expect to lose your license for a first-time offense is nine months. You’ll lose your license for a year for a second violation and for two years for a third or subsequent violation. You will also receive 12 points on your driving record.

When you drive in Colorado, you have essentially given consent to take a blood test or breathalyzer test if you are pulled over for driving under the influence. If you refuse to take these tests, you will automatically lose your driver’s license. You will lose it for a year for the first violation, two years for the second violation, and three years for a third or subsequent violation.

If you get pulled over while you are operating a commercial vehicle, the ramifications are even more serious: You’ll lose your license for a year for the first offense (or three years if your truck contains hazardous materials). If you get a second DUI or if you refuse a chemical test, you’ll lose your commercial license forever.

You can find out the specific process for reinstating your license at the Colorado Department of Revenue website. Give us a call if you have more questions.

If you have made a mistake and have been charged with a crime that has resulted in revocation of your driver’s license, it doesn’t have to ruin your life. Do not try to navigate this complex legal process by yourself. Regardless of how serious the charges, our experienced staff will help you prepare the best defense for your case. Everyone deserves fair and reliable representation from an expert such as those at the Law Office of John L. Buckley, PC. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.