Alcohol and Drug Limits

If your BAC is 0.08% or higher while driving

In Colorado, a BAC of 0.08% or more qualifies as Driving Under the Influence (DUI), triggering criminal charges and penalties.

When your BAC is between 0.05% and 0.079%

Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) is a lesser offense but still carries license points, fines, and possible jail time.

If you are under 21 and drive with a BAC of 0.02% or more

Drivers under 21 are prohibited from having any measurable alcohol in their system and may lose their license.

When you refuse a chemical test during a DUI stop

Under Colorado’s Express Consent Law, refusal leads to license revocation for 1 year and ignition interlock requirements.

If convicted of a first-time DUI

A first offense includes fines, mandatory alcohol education, community service, and up to 1 year in jail.

When caught driving under the influence of marijuana

Marijuana impairs reaction time and judgment. Drivers may be convicted if found to be affected to the slightest degree.

If your THC (marijuana) blood level is 5 nanograms or more

Colorado law presumes impairment at 5 ng/mL THC or more, but conviction is possible below that if impairment is evident.

When convicted of a second DUI offense

A second DUI leads to a 1-year revocation, mandatory jail, and ignition interlock installation.

If you are under the influence of prescription medication

Legal drugs like sedatives or painkillers that impair driving ability are grounds for DUI charges under state law.

When using both alcohol and drugs before driving

Combining substances has a multiplying effect, severely affecting reaction time, coordination, and judgment.

If you are convicted of DWAI

DWAI carries 8 points, up to $500 in fines, 180 days in jail, and 24 hours of public service, even on first offense.

If you are convicted of a DUI offense

Arizona law requires DUI offenders to install this device, which prevents the car from starting if your BAC is above 0.00%.

If a DUI results in bodily injury

DUI-related injuries escalate the charge to a felony, carrying longer jail time and permanent license revocation.

When a driver has multiple DUI or DWAI convictions

Habitual status leads to 5-year revocation and mandatory rehabilitation programs.

If convicted of DUI with a child passenger

Driving impaired with minors in the car can result in additional felony charges under child endangerment laws.

When driving after taking over-the-counter medication

Drugs like antihistamines or sleep aids can impair your ability and may lead to DUI charges if you’re found impaired.

If you are pulled over for suspected impairment

Officers evaluate coordination and alertness to determine probable cause for arrest and testing.

When your license is revoked due to DUI

Reinstating your license requires paying fees, completing alcohol education, and possibly installing an interlock.

If caught driving under the influence while under suspension

Repeat offenders or violators of suspension terms are subject to harsh criminal and civil penalties.

When applying for reinstatement after a DUI revocation

SR-22 is a high-risk insurance form required for license reinstatement after alcohol- or drug-related suspensions.