A judgment-free, step-by-step guide for Denver, Lakewood & Northglenn drivers
In a city built around driving — where the nearest grocery store is three miles away and the bus doesn’t run after 9pm — losing your license hits different. Getting to work, picking up your kids, making it to appointments: suddenly everything requires a plan.
If you’re navigating a DUI or DWAI reinstatement in the Denver metro, here’s the most important thing to know: there is a clear, step-by-step process to get your license back — and it’s more straightforward than most people expect. The hard part is usually just knowing where to start.
At Mile High Driver Training, we’ve helped hundreds of Colorado drivers work through exactly this situation — without judgment, and without unnecessary delays. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to get back behind the wheel legally and confidently.
First, Understand How Colorado Handles DUI License Revocation
When you’re charged with a DUI or DWAI in Colorado, two separate processes kick off simultaneously: your criminal court case, and an administrative action by the Colorado DMV. These are completely independent of each other.
Even if your court case is resolved — through a plea, a reduction, or a dismissal — the DMV’s process continues on its own track. You must satisfy the DMV’s specific reinstatement requirements separately. Many drivers assume resolving their court case automatically reinstates their license. It doesn’t work that way.
Step 1: Complete Your Colorado DMV Reinstatement Prerequisites
Before you can take any driving tests, you’ll need to work through the DMV’s reinstatement checklist. Requirements vary based on your specific case and blood alcohol content (BAC), but most drivers will need some combination of the following:
- Level II Alcohol Education and Therapy — Most Colorado DUI convictions require enrollment in a state-certified program. You’ll need proof of enrollment or completion before reinstatement.
- SR-22 Insurance (Certificate of Financial Responsibility) — An SR-22 is a certificate your insurance provider files with the Colorado DMV proving you carry minimum liability coverage. Most drivers need this for the full reinstatement period.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID) — Depending on your offense, you may be required to install an IID in your vehicle, resulting in an Interlock Restricted License.
- Pay All Reinstatement Fees — The Colorado DMV typically charges a $95 reinstatement fee plus a $25 DUI restoration fee. All outstanding fines must be paid in full.
Because every case is different, check your specific requirements at myDMV.Colorado.gov, where you can view your driver status and get a full reinstatement checklist.
Step 2: Retake Your Written Permit Test and Behind-the-Wheel Driving Test
Here’s the step that surprises most people: if your Colorado driver’s license was revoked due to a DUI or DWAI, you don’t just get it back by checking boxes. You have to start fresh — passing both the written permit test and the behind-the-wheel driving test again, just like when you first got your license.
For many experienced drivers, this feels humbling. We get it. But it’s also an opportunity to prove — to the state and to yourself — that you’re ready to be a safe, responsible driver again. This is exactly where Mile High Driver Training comes in.
Why Denver Metro Drivers Choose Mile High Driver Training for Reinstatement Testing
- 100% judgment-free. Our state-certified examiners evaluate your driving skills — full stop. What happened before you walked through our door is not part of the equation.
- Walk-in testing — no appointment needed. You’ve already dealt with enough waiting. Come in when you’re ready. No scheduling, no weeks-long DMV waits.
- State-certified third-party testing center. We are Colorado-authorized to administer both written and behind-the-wheel driving tests — the same standard as the DMV, with a fraction of the wait.
- Three convenient Denver metro locations. Denver, Lakewood, and Northglenn — wherever you are in the metro, there’s a location that works for you.
- Cash only for testing. To keep our lines moving efficiently, we accept cash payments only for written and driving tests.
Need an Interlock Vehicle for Your Drive Test?
If your reinstatement requires an Interlock Restricted License, you must take your behind-the-wheel test in a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device. If you don’t have access to one, we have a solution.
Mile High Driver Training partners with Safe Travels Interlock Car Rental, a local business specializing in rental vehicles with state-approved IIDs already installed — available specifically for drivers taking their official drive exam. Call Scott at 720-838-3485 to arrange a rental at any of our three testing locations.
Ready to Get Your License Back?
Walk in at any of our three Denver metro locations — no appointment needed. Our state-certified examiners are here to help you move forward.
- Website: milehighdrivertraining.com
- Phone: (303) 922-1000
- Denver: 1060 South Raritan St., Denver, CO 80223
- Lakewood: 3225 S. Wadsworth Blvd Unit K, Lakewood, CO 80227
- Northglenn: 11918 Washington St, Northglenn, CO 80233
Disclaimer: Mile High Driver Training provides state-certified driving exams and training services. We are not legal advisors. For specific legal advice regarding your DUI or DWAI, please consult a licensed Colorado attorney. Always verify your specific reinstatement requirements directly with the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles at myDMV.Colorado.gov.