What Are the Charges of Driving With a Suspended License in Colorado?

To drive on any public road in Colorado, a driver must possess a valid driver's license. A driver may have his license suspended for a variety of reasons, at which time he temporarily loses his privileges to operate a motor vehicle. If a driver is caught driving on a public road after his license is under suspension, he could face misdemeanor charges, depending upon the circumstances in which the license was suspended.

Charges of Driving With a Suspended License

To prove that a Colorado driver was operating a motorized vehicle after her driver's license was suspended, police must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the driver was operating the vehicle in question. The court must also prove that the driver received notification that her license was revoked, either at a prior court appearance or through certified mail. Prosecution must also prove that the defendant is actually the driver named on the suspended driver's list, and not merely someone with the same name.

Non-Substance-Related Suspension

If a driver's license is suspended for any reason other than drug- or alcohol-related reasons and the driver is found guilty of driving under a suspended license, he faces misdemeanor charges. The driver may face up to $500 in fines and six months in jail for the violation. If caught driving with a suspended license for a second time within five years of the first violation, the driver loses his driving privileges in Colorado for three years.

Substance-Related Suspension

If the driver's license was suspended because of pending charges or a conviction for driving under the influence, driving while impaired, habitual drug use or underage drinking and driving, the driver faces stiffer penalties. While still a misdemeanor charge, the minimum fine is $500 but cannot exceed $1,000. If convicted, the driver also must serve at least 30 days, but no more than one year, in prison. Subsequent violations earn two-year jail sentences and fines of up to $3,000.

Causes for Suspension

Drivers may lose their licenses for several reasons in Colorado. If a driver's license accumulates too many points assessed against it for moving violations -- which vary by license type -- a driver may temporarily lose her license. Drivers who refuse roadside sobriety tests immediately lose their licenses for a year, and drivers convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs face suspension. Additionally, those found guilty of purchasing liquor for minors, even if no motor vehicle violations occur, may face a suspended license. The state may also suspend a license if a driver is found guilty of nonpayment of child support.