Colorado issues fines for traffic infractions but also imposes license-related penalties on repeat offenders. Like many states, Colorado keeps track of these violations with a driver's license point system. Each traffic violation is assigned a certain number of demerit points. Accumulation of too many points within set time periods (generally, 12 or 24 months) will result in license suspension.
Traffic violations in Colorado are assigned the following point values.
2 |
|
Underage cellphone violation |
1 |
4 |
|
Failure to use due care while passing stationary vehicle |
3 (6 points if injury, 8 points if death) |
License restriction violation |
3 |
Unlisted misdemeanor traffic violation |
3 |
Drivers who accumulate too many points face license suspension. Colorado has a multi-stage license program whereby the rules and restrictions depend on the driver's age. So, the number of points that will lead to license suspension also generally depends on the age of the driver. Here's how it breaks down:
Notice of point accumulation. A driver who accumulates too many points will receive a warning letter or notice of hearing for the suspension. At the hearing, the driver can present testimony and evidence, and the Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles, will decide whether to suspend the driver's license. If the Department does impose a suspension, the driver might still be able to obtain a probationary license to drive during the suspension period. The department can place any number of conditions on a probationary license, including an ignition interlock device (IID) requirement and restrictions on when and where the licensee can drive.
Period of suspension. The Department determines suspension periods based on the driver's history and the other circumstances. The hearing officer will issue a suspension of six months to one year.
A driver can reduce the points for a violation by paying the fine prior to its due date. Prompt fine payment will reduce violations that are at least three points by two points and two-point violation by 1 point.