Common Traffic Violations That Can Lead to License Suspension in Colorado

Losing your driver’s license can affect almost every part of your life — from commuting to work to handling family responsibilities. In Colorado, your license can be suspended for more reasons than you might expect. Even minor traffic mistakes, if repeated, can result in serious consequences.

Some drivers only learn their license has been suspended after being charged with Driving Under Restraint in Colorado — a serious offense that can lead to heavy fines and possible jail time. Understanding which violations can trigger suspension helps you stay compliant with the law and avoid these costly mistakes.

Key Takeaways

• License suspension in Colorado can occur from DUI, speeding, no insurance, or unpaid tickets.

• The Colorado DMV uses a point system to track your violations.

• Driving under restraint adds severe penalties and longer suspensions.

• Always verify your license status and pay attention to suspension notices.

Understanding License Suspension vs. Revocation

Before diving into specific violations, it’s important to understand the difference between license suspension and revocation:

• License Suspension: A temporary withdrawal of your driving privileges for a specific period. You may reinstate it after completing certain requirements.

  
  

• License Revocation: A complete cancellation of your license. You must reapply for a new one once the revocation period ends.

The Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR) – Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) enforces these actions under the Colorado Revised Statutes (CRS). Suspensions often occur due to point accumulation, court orders, or failure to meet legal obligations.

Common Traffic Violations That Can Lead to Suspension

Colorado’s laws are strict when it comes to maintaining public safety on the road. Here are the most frequent violations that can result in a suspended or revoked license.

1. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI)

A DUI or DWAI conviction almost always results in an automatic suspension of your driver’s license.

• First-time DUI: Suspension for 9 months

• Second offense: Up to 1 year

• Third or more: 2 years or longer

You’ll also need to file an SR-22 insurance form and complete alcohol education or treatment programs before reinstatement.

2. Excessive Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding is more than just a fine—it adds points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points within a short period triggers suspension:

• 12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months for adults

• 9 points in 12 months for minors

Reckless driving, such as weaving through traffic or street racing, carries 8 points per violation and can easily lead to a suspended license.

3. Failure to Appear or Pay Traffic Tickets

Ignoring a court summons or failing to pay fines can cause the court to notify the DMV, which then suspends your license. This is called an Outstanding Judgment Warrant (OJW) suspension. You’ll need to resolve the ticket and pay reinstatement fees to regain your driving privileges.

4. Driving Without Insurance

Colorado law requires every driver to carry minimum liability insurance. If you’re caught driving without it:

• Your license can be suspended immediately.

• You’ll face reinstatement fees and mandatory proof of insurance (SR-22).

• Repeat offenders may lose their driving privileges for longer periods.

5. Hit and Run or Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Leaving the scene of an accident, especially one involving injury or property damage, is a criminal offense under Colorado law. It not only leads to a license suspension but can also include:

• Jail time

• Fines

• Permanent marks on your criminal record

Even minor hit-and-run cases can result in months of suspension.

6. Driving Under Suspension or Restraint

If your license is already suspended or revoked, driving again worsens your situation. This is known as Driving Under Restraint, and it carries:

• Additional suspension time

• Heavier fines

• Possible jail sentence for repeat offenses

How the Colorado DMV Point System Works

Colorado uses a point-based system to determine when to suspend a license. Each traffic violation adds a specific number of points to your record:

• Speeding 10–19 mph over: 4 points

• Reckless driving: 8 points

• Failure to yield or improper lane change: 3 points

Once you hit the threshold based on your age and license type, the DMV sends a suspension notice. Commercial drivers and young drivers have stricter limits.

Consequences of a Suspended License

Driving privileges aside, a suspended license can affect your life in several ways:

• Fines and court costs: Each reinstatement adds to your expenses.

• Higher insurance rates: Insurers view suspended drivers as high-risk.

• Employment challenges: Losing driving access can impact job opportunities.

• Potential jail time: Driving during suspension can escalate into a criminal charge.

Ignoring your suspension notice can also result in longer suspension periods and possible vehicle impoundment.

How to Check and Reinstate Your Suspended License

You can check your license status online at the Colorado DMV website. To reinstate:

• Clear all pending tickets or fines.

• Complete any required classes or court orders.

• File an SR-22 insurance form, if necessary.

• Pay the reinstatement fee.

For complex cases, especially those involving DUIs or multiple violations, consulting a Colorado traffic lawyer can make the process smoother.

How to Avoid License Suspension

Here are some practical steps to stay on the right side of the law:

1. Keep your insurance active and updated.

2. Pay fines or tickets on time.

3. Attend scheduled court appearances.

4. Drive within posted speed limits.

5. Avoid driving after drinking or taking impairing substances.

Proactive habits go a long way in maintaining a clean driving record and preventing suspension.

When to Contact a Traffic Defense Attorney

If your license has been suspended or you’ve been charged with a serious traffic offense, a traffic defense attorney can:

• Represent you in court

• Negotiate to reduce penalties or points

• Help with license reinstatement

• Defend you against Driving Under Restraint or DUI charges

An attorney ensures you understand your rights and helps you avoid costly legal mistakes.

Conclusion

License suspension isn’t just a minor inconvenience — it’s a legal and financial setback that can affect your daily life. Knowing which common traffic violations can trigger suspension empowers you to make safer, smarter decisions on the road.

If you’re currently facing suspension or charges like Driving Under Restraint in Colorado, take the time to read our in-depth guide to understand your legal options and next steps. Staying informed today can save you from serious consequences tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many points lead to license suspension in Colorado?

For adults, accumulating 12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months leads to suspension. For minors, the limit is lower.

2. Can unpaid tickets suspend my license?

Yes. If you fail to pay fines or appear in court, your license can be suspended under an Outstanding Judgment Warrant.

3. What happens if I drive while my license is suspended?

You can be charged with Driving Under Restraint, leading to fines, possible jail time, and extended suspension.

4. How long does a suspension last in Colorado?

Suspension length depends on the violation — from 3 months for minor offenses to several years for serious or repeated ones.

5. Can a lawyer help me reinstate my suspended license faster?

Yes. An experienced traffic lawyer can guide you through the legal and DMV reinstatement process efficiently.