Eagle County License Hearing Guide

Navigating the DMV After a DUI in Eagle County: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you've been arrested for DUI in Eagle County, Colorado, you're likely facing a complex "two-track" system: a criminal case in the Eagle County Courts and an administrative case with the Colorado Department of Revenue (DMV). Understanding the DMV process is crucial, as it directly impacts your driving privileges. This guide provides actionable information to help you navigate the administrative side of a DUI in Eagle County.

Understanding the "Two-Track" System and Express Consent

Colorado law operates under a "two-track" system for DUI offenses. This means you'll be dealing with both the criminal court system (fines, jail, probation) and the DMV (license suspension/revocation). The DMV process is triggered by Colorado's "Express Consent" law (C.R.S. § 42-4-1301.1). By driving in Colorado, you've automatically consented to a chemical test (breath or blood) if arrested for DUI.

If your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) was 0.08% or higher, you face a "per se" DUI. Even a BAC between 0.05% and 0.08% can result in a DWAI (Driving While Ability Impaired) charge, which still carries administrative penalties. Refusing a chemical test results in the most severe administrative consequences, including a mandatory one-year license revocation. The officer will seize your license immediately and issue a "Notice of Revocation."

Requesting a DMV Hearing: Act Fast!

Upon receiving a Notice of Revocation, you have only 10 days to request a hearing with the DMV to contest the revocation of your license. This is a critical deadline. Missing it means your license will automatically be suspended. You can request a hearing online through the Colorado DMV website or by mailing a written request to the address listed on your revocation notice.

The hearing is your opportunity to challenge the basis for the revocation. Common challenges include questioning the legality of the initial stop, the administration of the chemical test, or the accuracy of the test results. The standard of proof at the DMV hearing is "preponderance of the evidence," a lower standard than "beyond a reasonable doubt" in criminal court.

Navigating License Reinstatement in Eagle County

One of the biggest logistical challenges in Eagle County is the lack of a State Driver License Office. To reinstate your license after a suspension or revocation, you'll need to travel outside the county. The closest DMV offices are located in:

• Glenwood Springs: Approximately 45 miles west of Eagle.
• Leadville (Lake County): Approximately 40 miles southeast of Eagle.

Before heading to the DMV, make sure you've met all reinstatement requirements, which may include:

• Serving the full suspension/revocation period.
• Completing Level II Alcohol Education and Therapy.
• Paying reinstatement fees.
• Installing an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), if required.
• Obtaining SR-22 insurance.

Alcohol Education and Therapy: Mind Springs Health and Alternatives

If ordered by the court or DMV, you'll need to complete Level II Alcohol Education and Therapy. Mind Springs Health is the primary provider in Eagle County. Their Eagle office is located at 137 Howard Street, Eagle, CO 81631. They offer the full spectrum of Level II Education and Therapy groups.

For those living in the upper valley (Vail, Avon, Edwards), smaller private counseling practices also offer these classes, potentially saving you a commute to Eagle. Contact your probation officer or the DMV for a list of approved providers.

Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Installation and Monitoring

If your license reinstatement requires an IID, finding a local installer is essential. Smart Start is a readily accessible provider in the area, with locations at:

• Avon: 80 Metcalf Rd, Avon, CO 81620 (Located at Avon Auto Mechanics).
• Gypsum: 101 Airpark Dr, Gypsum, CO 81637.

Intoxalock also maintains a network of installers, though specific local workshops may vary. Call to confirm locations and schedule an installation appointment. Be prepared to pay installation fees and monthly monitoring costs.

SCRAM and Electronic Monitoring

For high-risk bond conditions, the court may order a SCRAM (Secure Continuous Remote Alcohol Monitoring) ankle bracelet. Intervention, Inc. and Recovery Monitoring Solutions are the primary vendors servicing the 5th Judicial District. While their main offices are on the Front Range, they coordinate with local probation officers to fit and monitor devices for Eagle County defendants.

Key Logistical Contacts

• Eagle County Combined Courts: (970) 328-6363
• Eagle County Sheriff's Office: (970) 328-8500
• Mind Springs Health (Eagle): (970) 328-6969
• Smart Start (Avon): (970) 470-4306
• Smart Start (Gypsum): (970) 470-4306
• Colorado DMV (Glenwood Springs): Check the Colorado DMV website for the most up-to-date contact information and hours.

Remember, navigating the DMV process after a DUI in Eagle County requires careful planning and adherence to strict deadlines. Don't delay in requesting your DMV hearing and gathering the necessary documentation for license reinstatement.