Getting your suspended license back in Colorado requires you to complete specific steps set by the Colorado Department of Revenue, and the path depends on why your license was suspended in the first place.
A suspension is temporary — your license is held but not destroyed. To drive legally again, you must satisfy the reason for the suspension, then request reinstatement through the Department of Revenue's Driver Services Bureau. The process takes a few weeks and costs a reinstatement fee. Some suspensions lift automatically on a set date; others require you to take action first.
The most common reasons for suspension in Colorado are unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, unpaid child support, unpaid vehicle registration, or driving under the influence (DUI) convictions. Each has different requirements before you can be reinstated. Knowing which reason applies to you is the first step.
Key Takeaways
- Contact the Colorado Department of Revenue Driver Services Bureau to find out the exact reason your license was suspended and what you must do to clear it.
- Most suspensions require you to pay outstanding fines, court costs, or child support before reinstatement is possible.
- After clearing the underlying issue, you submit a reinstatement request to the Department of Revenue and pay a reinstatement fee, which varies by suspension type.
- Some suspensions lift automatically after a set period; others remain in place until you take action, so do not assume your license will return on its own.
- If your suspension is related to a DUI, you may need to complete an alcohol education program and install an ignition interlock device before reinstatement.
Finding out why your license was suspended
The Colorado Department of Revenue will not reinstate your license until you know the reason it was suspended. Call the Driver Services Bureau at 303-205-5613 or visit their office in person to request your driving record. You can also check your record online through the Colorado Department of Revenue website if you have your driver's license number and date of birth.
When you contact them, ask for a written statement of the suspension reason. This document will tell you exactly what you need to do to clear the suspension. Keep this document — you will need it when you request reinstatement. If the suspension is related to unpaid fines or court costs, the statement will tell you the amount owed and where to pay it.
Clearing the underlying reason for suspension
Before the Department of Revenue will reinstate your license, the reason for suspension must be resolved. If your suspension is due to unpaid traffic fines or court costs, you must pay the full amount owed. Contact the court that issued the ticket or fine to confirm the exact amount and payment methods. Many Colorado courts accept payment by phone, online, or in person.
If your suspension is related to unpaid child support, contact the Colorado Department of Human Services, Division of Early Care and Learning, or the county child support enforcement office. They will tell you the amount owed and set up a payment plan if you cannot pay in full when ready. Once you have made arrangements or paid in full, ask them to notify the Department of Revenue that the issue is resolved.
If your suspension is due to failure to appear in court, you must resolve the underlying case. This usually means contacting the court, appearing before a judge, and resolving the charge or fine. An attorney can help if you are unsure how to proceed. If your suspension is related to unpaid vehicle registration, renew your registration with the Colorado Department of Revenue.
Suspensions related to DUI convictions
A DUI suspension works differently than other suspensions. Colorado law requires a mandatory suspension period that begins on the date of arrest or conviction, depending on whether you refused a breath test. During this time, you cannot drive at all, even with a work permit.
After the mandatory suspension period ends, you become may be able to access for reinstatement, but you must complete several requirements first. You must complete an alcohol education program approved by the Colorado Department of Revenue — typically a four-week or twelve-week course depending on your record. You must also pay the reinstatement fee and provide proof of completion to the Department of Revenue.
If this is your first DUI, you may be may be able to access for a work permit during part of the suspension period, which allows you to drive only to and from work, school, or court. To request a work permit, contact the Driver Services Bureau with proof of employment or enrollment. If you are required to install an ignition interlock device (a device that prevents your car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath), you must have it installed before reinstatement and keep it installed for the time period ordered by the court.
Submitting your reinstatement request
Once you have cleared the reason for suspension, contact the Colorado Department of Revenue Driver Services Bureau to request reinstatement. You can submit your request by mail, in person, or online through the Colorado Department of Revenue website. Include your driver's license number, the reason your license was suspended, and proof that you have resolved the issue — such as a receipt showing payment of fines, a letter from child support enforcement confirming payment, or a certificate of completion from an alcohol education program.
The reinstatement fee varies depending on the reason for suspension. As of 2024, reinstatement fees range from $20 to $100. The Department of Revenue will send you a notice confirming receipt of your request and telling you whether your reinstatement has been approved. This process typically takes two to four weeks.
What happens after reinstatement is approved
Once your reinstatement is approved, you can resume driving. If your license was suspended but not revoked, you do not need to retake the written or driving test — your license remains valid. However, if your license has expired during the suspension period, you will need to renew it before you can drive.
If your suspension was related to a DUI and you are required to have an ignition interlock device, you must have it installed and calibrated before you drive. The device costs money to install and maintain, and you are responsible for those costs. Keep all receipts and maintenance records in case the court or Department of Revenue asks for proof.
If your reinstatement request is denied
The Department of Revenue may deny your reinstatement request if you have not fully resolved the reason for suspension or if you do not meet all requirements. For example, if you owe child support but have not made a payment arrangement, or if you have not completed an alcohol education program, your request will be denied. The denial notice will explain what you still need to do.
If you believe the denial is an error, you can request a hearing with the Department of Revenue. Contact the Driver Services Bureau for information about the hearing process. You may also want to speak with an attorney if the suspension involves a criminal charge or complex legal issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a license suspension last in Colorado?
The length depends on the reason. Traffic-related suspensions typically last 30 to 90 days. DUI suspensions are longer — at least eight months for a first offense, longer for repeat offenses. Some suspensions remain in place indefinitely until you take action to clear them, so contact the Department of Revenue to find out your specific timeline.
Can I drive with a suspended license if I have a work permit?
A work permit allows you to drive only for specific purposes — usually to and from work, school, court, or an alcohol education program. You cannot use it for any other driving. Work permits are not available for all suspension types; DUI suspensions sometimes allow them during the mandatory suspension period. Ask the Department of Revenue whether you are may be able to access for a work permit in your situation.
What if I cannot pay my fines all at once?
Contact the court that issued the fine and ask about a payment plan. Most Colorado courts will work with you to set up installment payments. Once you have made a payment arrangement, notify the Department of Revenue — some suspensions are lifted once a payment plan is in place, even if you have not paid the full amount yet.
Do I need a lawyer to get my license reinstated?
You do not need a lawyer for most reinstatement requests — the process is straightforward if you have resolved the underlying issue. However, if your suspension involves a criminal charge, a court case, or a denied reinstatement request, an attorney can help you understand your options and represent you at a hearing.
What if my license was revoked instead of suspended?
A revocation is permanent and more serious than a suspension. If your license was revoked, you cannot straightforward request reinstatement — you must wait a set period (usually one to five years depending on the reason) and then explore for a new license, which requires passing the written and driving tests again. Contact the Department of Revenue to confirm whether your license was suspended or revoked.