How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Colorado?

It's no secret that driving under the influence of alcohol is not just dangerous, but is accompanied by serious consequences. Not only are you much more likely to get into an accident while impaired, injuring yourself or others, but there are hefty legal ramifications that come along with driving under the influence as well.

You've probably heard about things like the fines, community service, and possible jail time associated with driving under the influence, but have you ever wondered just how long a DUI stays on your record in Colorado? The answer may surprise you.

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Colorado?

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To answer this question, we need to first establish that there are two records affected by a DUI conviction; your driving record and your criminal record.

In Colorado, if you are convicted of driving under the influence you lose 12 points on your license, your insurance premium is affected for the following two years (barring any further traffic violations within that time period) and the offense stays on your driving record for a total of ten years.

However, if you are caught drinking and driving in Colorado, it will stay on your criminal record for life.

In addition, even if you work out a plea deal or a deferred sentence, the DUI arrest remains on your criminal record nonetheless.

This means that when an employer or landlord conducts a criminal background check, a DUI conviction will be on there no matter how much time has passed.

However, if the DUI case was dropped and you were acquitted, the DUI arrest will no longer show up on your criminal record after ten years.