Facing extended interlock requirements after multiple DUI convictions in Colorado can feel like scaling a mountain without equipment. Luckily, you’re not climbing this summit alone. Pitstop Interlock has helped countless Colorado Springs residents navigate the complexities of extended interlock device requirements with compassionate, judgment-free service. With multiple convenient locations throughout the city, we’re committed to making this challenging period as manageable as possible for you.
The Reality of Multiple DUI Convictions in Colorado
If you’ve been convicted of more than one DUI in Colorado, you’re probably already aware that Colorado takes repeat offenses very seriously. Each subsequent conviction comes with increasingly stringent penalties, and the interlock device requirements grow longer and more complex. Understanding exactly what’s required of you is the first step toward regaining your freedom to enjoy everything life has to offer.
How Colorado Classifies Multiple DUI Offenses
In Colorado, DUI offenses are classified based on the number of prior convictions you have on your record. While the first three DUIs are typically classified as misdemeanors, a fourth or subsequent offense is elevated to a felony charge.
Second DUI Offense Consequences
When you’re facing a second DUI conviction in Colorado, you’re looking at:
- Jail time ranging from 10 days to 1 year (with limited options for house arrest)
- Fines between $600 and $1,500, plus additional court costs
- License revocation for 1 year (with possible restricted license after 30 days)
- 48 to 120 hours of community service
- Ignition interlock device requirement for at least 2 years
- Up to 4 years of probation with monitored sobriety
Third DUI Offense Consequences
With a third DUI conviction, the penalties increase significantly:
- Jail time from 60 days to 1 year (with a minimum of 60 consecutive days)
- Fines between $600 and $1,500, plus court costs
- License revocation for 2 years
- 48 to 120 hours of community service
- Ignition interlock device requirement for at least 2 years after license reinstatement
- Up to 4 years of probation with mandatory treatment and monitored sobriety
Fourth or Subsequent DUI Offense Consequences
A fourth DUI offense crosses into felony territory, resulting in:
- Prison sentence of 2 to 6 years
- Fines ranging from $2,000 to $500,000
- Indefinite license revocation
- Minimum of 48 hours of community service
- Extended interlock requirements for the foreseeable future
- A felony record that impacts employment, housing, and other aspects of life
Extended Interlock Requirements: Persistent Drunk Driver Designation
Colorado law designates certain offenders as “Persistent Drunk Drivers” (PDD), which affects interlock requirements. You’ll receive this designation if:
- Your BAC was 0.15 or higher (reduced from 0.17 in 2014)
- You refused chemical testing
- You have multiple alcohol-related driving offenses
With a PDD designation, you’re looking at a minimum 2-year interlock requirement, regardless of whether it’s your first or subsequent offense.
Early Reinstatement Options with Interlock
Even with multiple DUI convictions, Colorado offers paths to regain limited driving privileges earlier than your full revocation period.
Second or Subsequent DUI Offenses
If you have multiple DUI convictions, you may be eligible to reinstate your driving privileges early:
- For a second or subsequent “Per Se” offense (BAC of 0.08 or higher): You may reinstate early after serving one month, with a 2-year interlock requirement.
- For refusal to submit to chemical testing with multiple offenses: You may be eligible to reinstate early after serving a two-month term, with a 2-year interlock requirement.
Habitual Traffic Offenders
If you’ve been designated as a Habitual Traffic Offender (three qualifying offenses within 7 years), your license is typically revoked for 5 years. However, you may be eligible for early reinstatement with extended interlock requirements if:
- You have at least one alcohol-related driving offense on or after July 1, 2000
- You’ve served up to 2 months of revocation and been approved for early reinstatement.
The interlock requirement would be for a minimum of 1 year or the remainder of your restraint period, whichever is longer.
Compliance Issues and Violations
Maintaining compliance with extended interlock requirements is vital to regaining your freedom.
What Constitutes a Violation?
Interlock violations can occur in several ways:
- Driving a vehicle without an interlock when you’re required to have one
- Attempting to circumvent or tamper with the device
- Failing to have the device serviced
- Having the device detect alcohol in three of any twelve consecutive months
Consequences of Non-Compliance
The consequences of interlock violations are serious:
- If you drive a non-equipped vehicle or attempt to circumvent the device, your license will be revoked and you will be prohibited from driving for at least one year.
- If you fail to report for device servicing, your license will be suspended until you come back into compliance.
- If your device prevents vehicle operation due to alcohol detection in three of any twelve consecutive months: Potential suspension and extended interlock requirements by up to one year for each set of three fails.
Related: Colorado Ignition Interlock Compliance: Avoiding Common Mistakes That Lead to Violations
Documentation and Compliance Records
Keeping detailed records of your interlock compliance is important for avoiding extended interlock requirements.
What Records to Keep
Maintain organized records of:
- All installation and service receipts
- Documentation of any device errors or malfunctions
- Receipts for all payments
- Copies of all correspondence with the DMV
- Records of successful tests and any violations
Records are vital if questions arise about your compliance or if you need to contest a violation report.
Preparing for Reinstatement
As you approach the end of your interlock requirement period, proper documentation becomes even more important. You’ll need to demonstrate full compliance to have the restriction removed from your license.
The Colorado DMV will review your interlock records before removing the restriction. Any unresolved violations or compliance issues could delay your return to unrestricted driving privileges.
Beyond the Interlock: Additional Considerations to Avoid Extended Interlock Requirements
The interlock device is just one piece of the larger puzzle when dealing with multiple DUI convictions in Colorado. There are several other requirements you’ll need to navigate.
Alcohol Education and Treatment Programs
Multiple DUI convictions typically require completion of:
- Level II alcohol education (minimum 24 hours)
- Level II therapy (ranging from 42 to 86 hours, depending on your risk level)
- Potential additional treatment based on evaluation recommendations
Alcohol Education and treatment programs are available throughout Colorado Springs, with options in a variety of neighborhoods.
SR-22 Insurance Requirements
You’ll need to maintain SR-22 insurance certification for the duration of your restricted license period. This high-risk insurance verification comes with premium increases that can be substantial.
Colorado requires continuous SR-22 coverage with no lapses. Even a brief interruption in coverage could result in license suspension and extended interlock requirements.
Read Also: How Do I Get My License Back After Ignition Interlock Removal?
Taking the Next Step
When you’re dealing with repeated DUI convictions in Colorado, understanding the extended ignition interlock device (IID) requirements becomes essential to regaining your independence and getting back on the road legally. The path might seem winding, but with clear information, you can navigate these requirements successfully.
Don’t let extended interlock requirements keep you from enjoying the beauty and opportunities that Colorado Springs has to offer. With Pitstop Interlock, you can meet your legal obligations while maintaining as much normalcy in your daily life as possible. We are ready to help you understand your specific requirements, install a reliable device, and provide the ongoing support you need throughout your interlock period. Visit one of our Colorado Springs locations or schedule an appointment online to get started.