Colorado · DUI · Checked October 2026
Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in Colorado
Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in Colorado: What Are the Rules?
What happens if you refuse a breath or blood test in Colorado.
- Refusal penalty
- License revocation for 1 year (first), 2 years (second) or 3 years (third or later), Persistent Drunk Driver designation, a 2-year interlock requirement, and at least 2 months served before early reinstatement. Refusal can also be used as evidence at a DUI or DWAI trial
- License suspension for refusing
- 1 year (first), 2 years (second), 3 years (third or later)
- Deadline to challenge
- 7 days
Refusal Penalties in Colorado
License revocation for 1 year (first), 2 years (second) or 3 years (third or later), Persistent Drunk Driver designation, a 2-year interlock requirement, and at least 2 months served before early reinstatement. Refusal can also be used as evidence at a DUI or DWAI trial.C.R.S. §§ 42-4-1301.1, 42-2-126(3)(c), 42-4-1301(6)(d)
License Suspension for Refusing in Colorado
1 year (first), 2 years (second), 3 years (third or later)C.R.S. § 42-2-126(3), (6)(d), (7)(b)
More on DUI Law in Colorado
See the full overview of DUI laws in Colorado and read about implied consent laws in every state.
This page summarizes Colorado law from official sources, checked October 2026. It isn't legal advice; a lawyer licensed in Colorado can advise on your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if You Refuse a Breath Test in Colorado?
License revocation for 1 year (first), 2 years (second) or 3 years (third or later), Persistent Drunk Driver designation, a 2-year interlock requirement, and at least 2 months served before early reinstatement. Refusal can also be used as evidence at a DUI or DWAI trial.
How Long Is the Suspension for Refusing?
1 year (first), 2 years (second), 3 years (third or later)