Costilla County License Hearing Guide

Navigating the DMV After a DUI in Costilla County: A Practical Guide

A DUI arrest in Costilla County presents unique challenges. Unlike urban areas, the vast distances and limited local resources mean navigating the DMV and court requirements can feel overwhelming. This guide provides actionable steps and specific information to help you understand the process.

Understanding the "Rural Penalty"

Costilla County's sparse population density (around 3 people per square mile) creates what we call a "rural penalty." Essential services, like driver's license reinstatement, interlock device installation, and mandatory alcohol education, are primarily located outside the county, in Alamosa, approximately 30-45 minutes from San Luis. This adds significant time, expense, and logistical hurdles to your DUI case.

Immediate Steps After a DUI Arrest

Following a DUI arrest, you face two separate but related processes: the criminal court case and the administrative action by the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV process begins immediately and can result in a driver's license suspension before your criminal case is resolved.

1Request a DMV Hearing: You have only 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing with the DMV to contest the suspension of your driver's license. Missing this deadline automatically suspends your license. Contact the Colorado DMV Hearings Section immediately to schedule your hearing.

2Understand the Express Consent Law: Refusal to submit to a chemical test (blood or breath) at the time of your arrest results in an automatic one-year license suspension under Colorado's Express Consent Law. This suspension is separate from any suspension resulting from a DUI conviction.

Reinstating Your License: The Interlock Requirement

A DUI conviction often requires the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle. Unfortunately, there are no IID installation centers within Costilla County itself. You'll need to travel to Alamosa for installation and monthly calibration.

Alamosa IID Providers:

• Smart Start: 1825 State Ave, Alamosa.
• Intoxalock: Locations at Backroads LLC (1825 State Ave) and Thunder Motor Co (7302 Rodeo Lane) in Alamosa.
• Guardian Interlock: 1825 State Ave, Alamosa.
• LifeSafer: Garcia Auto Sales, 1591 State Ave, Alamosa.

The Logistical Challenge: If your license is revoked, you cannot legally drive to Alamosa for IID installation. You'll need to arrange a sober ride or pay for a tow. This adds to the already significant financial burden of a DUI.

Alcohol and Drug Education

Colorado law mandates alcohol and drug education or therapy following a DUI conviction. Like IID services, these programs are primarily located in Alamosa. Recovery Resources in Alamosa is a primary provider for the San Luis Valley, offering support from pretrial through DUI classes. Inquire about telehealth options, which may be available depending on the provider and current state regulations.

Navigating Costilla County Law Enforcement

DUI enforcement in Costilla County is primarily handled by the Costilla County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and the Colorado State Patrol (CSP).

Costilla County Sheriff's Office:

• Address: 103 Gasper Street, San Luis, CO 81152
• Non-Emergency/Office: (719) 672-0673
• Dispatch: (719) 672-3302

The CCSO participates in "Heat Is On" campaigns coordinated by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), increasing DUI enforcement during specific periods. The Colorado State Patrol (CSP) Troop 5B also focuses heavily on DUI enforcement on Highways 160, 159, and 142.

Securing a Red License

Defense counsel must prioritize securing provisional driving privileges (Red License) immediately to allow the client to comply with the out-of-county mandates required by the court and DMV.

Key Contact Information

• Costilla County Sheriff’s Office: (719) 672-0673
• Colorado DMV Hearings Section: [Find the number on the Colorado DMV website]
• Recovery Resources (Alamosa): [Find the number on their website]

Don't delay. Contact the Colorado DMV Hearings Section today to protect your driving privileges.