SR-22 Insurance in Colorado: Requirements After a DUI or Uninsured Crash
Colorado requires an SR-22 for periods ranging from nine months to three years, depending on the offense. Here are the official rules for DUIs, persistent drunk drivers and uninsured crashes.
Colorado ties the length of an SR-22 requirement closely to the offense behind it. A single lower-level alcohol offense can carry a much shorter requirement than an uninsured crash or a high-BAC DUI. Here is a summary of the Colorado DMV's rules.
Colorado's minimum coverage
| Coverage | Colorado minimum |
|---|---|
| Bodily injury or death, one person | $25,000 |
| Bodily injury or death, per accident | $50,000 |
| Property damage | $15,000 |
How long the SR-22 lasts, by situation
| Situation | SR-22 requirement |
|---|---|
| Alcohol offenses (general) | 9 months to 3 years, depending on the offense |
| Persistent Drunk Driver designation | At least 2 years |
| At-fault crash without insurance | 3 years, plus a suspension |
| Financial Responsibility Act suspensions | 3 years of continuous coverage after you submit it |
From Colorado DMV and Department of Revenue guidance, checked October 2026. Some DMV pages give different figures for the same category, so rely on your notice.
Persistent Drunk Driver rules
The Colorado DMV designates a driver a Persistent Drunk Driver (PDD) for a BAC of 0.15 or higher (even on a first offense), two or more alcohol-related driving convictions, driving while suspended or revoked for an alcohol offense, or refusing a chemical test. A PDD designation brings:
- an SR-22 for at least two years,
- an ignition interlock for at least two years, installed at a state-certified center in every vehicle you drive, and
- Level 2 alcohol education and treatment.
Reinstatement fees
The DMV lists a $95 reinstatement fee and a $25 DUI restoration fee, $120 in total. Mailed applications can take up to 20 business days, so the DMV suggests mailing about 30 days before your eligibility date.
If your SR-22 lapses
If you let the SR-22 lapse, your insurer notifies the Division of Motor Vehicles, which suspends your license for that reason alone. See how to avoid an SR-22 lapse.
How to get an SR-22 in Colorado
- Read your DMV notice for the exact SR-22 period and other requirements.
- Request a Colorado SR-22 filing from several insurers, or a non-owner policy if you don't own a car.
- Complete interlock and education requirements if they apply, and pay the reinstatement fees.
- Keep coverage continuous until the requirement ends.
A DUI also raises your premium for years. See how much a DUI raises insurance.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need an SR-22 in Colorado after a DUI?
It depends on the offense. The Colorado DMV's alcohol reinstatement page says nine months to three years, and some cases, such as Persistent Drunk Driver designations, require at least two years. Your DMV notice states your exact requirement.
What is a Persistent Drunk Driver in Colorado?
A designation for drivers with a BAC of 0.15 or higher, two or more alcohol-related driving convictions, driving while suspended for an alcohol offense, or refusing a chemical test. It brings an SR-22 and ignition interlock for at least two years and alcohol education.
How much does it cost to reinstate a Colorado license after a DUI?
The Colorado DMV lists a $95 reinstatement fee plus a $25 DUI restoration fee, for $120 total. Other costs, such as interlock and classes, are separate.
What are Colorado's minimum insurance limits?
$25,000 for bodily injury or death to one person, $50,000 per accident and $15,000 for property damage.
Sources
- Reinstating After a DUI or Alcohol Offense, Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
- Suspension and Reinstatement FAQs, Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles
- Auto Insurance (motor vehicle hearings), Colorado Department of Revenue
- Mandatory Automobile Insurance in Colorado, Colorado General Assembly, Legislative Council Staff
- DR 2316 Financial Responsibility Requirements, Colorado Department of Revenue
Sources were checked on October 15, 2026. Laws, fees and prices change; always confirm with your state agency or insurer.