How to learn about your Colorado license is suspended
You can check your Colorado driver's license status directly through the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website without visiting an office or calling. The fastest way is to use the online license status lookup tool at the DMV's public portal, which tells you within seconds whether your license is active, suspended, revoked, or expired.
If you prefer not to use the online tool, you can call the Colorado DMV at 303-205-5613 during business hours, or visit a local DMV office in person with your driver's license or ID card. The online method is usually fastest because you get an answer when ready and can check at any time, including nights and weekends.
Key Takeaways
- The Colorado DMV online license lookup tool at dmv.colorado.gov is the quickest way to check your status and works 24/7.
- A suspension means your license is temporarily invalid; you cannot legally drive until the suspension is lifted and you meet any reinstatement requirements.
- Common reasons for suspension in Colorado include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, unpaid child support, and driving with a suspended license.
- Once you resolve the reason for the suspension, you must contact the DMV or the agency that issued the suspension to request reinstatement.
- Driving on a suspended license is a crime in Colorado and can result in fines, jail time, and additional license penalties.
Using the Colorado DMV online lookup tool
Go to dmv.colorado.gov and look for the "License Status" or "Check Your License Status" link on the homepage. You will need to enter your driver's license number and your date of birth. The system will return your current status within seconds.
The online tool shows whether your license is valid, suspended, revoked, or expired. If it is suspended, the tool may display the reason and the agency responsible for the suspension. Write down this information because you will need it to resolve the suspension.
If the website is down or you cannot access it, the DMV phone line at 303-205-5613 can provide the same information. Have your license number and date of birth ready when you call.
What a suspension means and why it happens
A suspension is a temporary removal of your driving privileges. Unlike a revocation, which is permanent, a suspension can be lifted once you meet certain conditions. While your license is suspended, you cannot legally operate a motor vehicle in Colorado or any other state.
The most common reasons for suspension in Colorado are unpaid traffic fines or court costs, failure to appear in court for a traffic violation, unpaid child support, and conviction for driving under the influence (DUI). The DMV can also suspend your license if you accumulate too many points on your driving record within a set time period, or if you are caught driving with a suspended license.
Other agencies besides the DMV can request a suspension. The Colorado Department of Human Services can suspend your license for unpaid child support. The court system can suspend it for failure to appear. The Colorado Department of Revenue can suspend it for unpaid taxes. Knowing which agency suspended your license is important because each one has different steps to lift the suspension.
How to lift a suspension in Colorado
The steps to reinstate your license depend on why it was suspended. If the suspension was for unpaid 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. Once you pay, the court will notify the DMV, and your suspension should be lifted within one to three business days.
If the suspension was for failure to appear in court, you must contact the court, resolve the case (usually by appearing before a judge), and pay any fines or costs ordered. If the suspension was for unpaid child support, contact the Colorado Department of Human Services or the agency handling your case to bring your account current or set up a payment plan.
For suspensions related to DUI convictions, you may need to complete a substance abuse education program, install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, and pay reinstatement fees to the DMV. The DMV website lists specific requirements based on your conviction. Once you have completed all requirements, you must submit proof to the DMV and pay a reinstatement fee (typically $100 to $150) to restore your license.
Reinstatement fees and what to expect
Colorado charges a reinstatement fee to restore a suspended license. The fee is usually $100 to $150, depending on the reason for the suspension and whether it is your first reinstatement. You must pay this fee in addition to any fines, court costs, or other amounts owed that caused the suspension in the first place.
You can pay the reinstatement fee online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. After you pay and the DMV processes your payment, your license status should update within one to three business days. You do not need to take a new written or road test to reinstate a suspended license unless the DMV specifically requires it as part of your reinstatement conditions.
What happens if you drive on a suspended license
Driving with a suspended license in Colorado is a crime. A first offense is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of $300 to $1,000 and up to 90 days in jail. A second offense within five years carries a fine of $500 to $1,500 and up to 120 days in jail. A third or subsequent offense is a felony with even harsher penalties.
Beyond criminal penalties, driving on a suspended license will result in additional DMV penalties. Your license suspension will be extended, and you may face a longer reinstatement period or higher reinstatement fees. If you are caught driving on a suspended license, your vehicle may be impounded, and you will face towing and storage costs.
If your license is suspended and you need to drive, explore alternatives like public transportation, rideshare services, or asking someone with a valid license to drive. If you believe your suspension was issued in error, contact the DMV or the agency that suspended your license to request a review.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to learn about my license is suspended?
The online lookup tool gives you an answer in seconds. If you call the DMV, you may wait on hold, but you will typically get an answer within a few minutes during business hours. Visiting an office in person usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the location is.
Can I get a temporary license while my suspension is being lifted?
Colorado does not issue temporary licenses during a suspension. You must wait until your suspension is fully lifted and your license status updates in the DMV system. This typically takes one to three business days after you meet all reinstatement requirements and pay the reinstatement fee.
What if I don't know why my license was suspended?
The online lookup tool may show the reason, but if it does not, call the DMV at 303-205-5613 or visit a local office. Have your license number and date of birth ready. The DMV can tell you which agency suspended your license and direct you to the right place to resolve it.
Will my suspension show up on a background check?
Yes, a license suspension is part of your driving record and will appear on background checks related to driving or employment that requires a valid license. Once your suspension is lifted, it remains on your record but shows as resolved. Some employers and insurance companies may still see the history.
Can I appeal a suspension if I think it's wrong?
Yes. Contact the DMV or the agency that suspended your license and request a hearing or review. You will need to provide documentation showing why you believe the suspension was issued in error. The process and timeline vary depending on the reason for the suspension and which agency is involved.