Getting caught drinking and driving under the age of 21 in Colorado carries serious legal consequences, but the impact doesn’t stop there. For many teens and young adults, the larger consequences show up later, when they’re applying to college or trying to secure financial aid. A conviction that might seem like a short-term setback can end up creating long-term obstacles to academic goals and career aspirations.
Colorado takes underage drinking and driving seriously. Drivers under 21 who are caught with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.02% and 0.05% can be charged with Underage Drinking and Driving (UDD), a lesser offense than a DUI but still a criminal one. Those with a BAC of 0.08% or more face the same DUI penalties as adults. In both cases, even a first-time offense can put a permanent blemish on a young person’s criminal record and that record is something colleges don’t ignore.
Teenagers often assume that a single mistake won’t follow them for long, but a criminal charge, even for a non-violent offense like underage drinking, can cast a shadow over educational opportunities. From college applications to housing, extracurricular eligibility, and financial aid, an underage DUI has the potential to create obstacles at nearly every turn.
Most universities and colleges include questions about criminal history on their admissions applications. While not every school automatically disqualifies applicants with prior convictions, many will take a much closer look. Admissions committees may interpret a DUI as a sign of poor decision-making, immaturity, or a lack of regard for laws and campus safety policies. Some may ask for a written explanation or additional character references to understand the context of the charge.
Private colleges, in particular, often have stricter conduct policies and may be less forgiving. Schools that emphasize values such as leadership, discipline, or community service may find an underage DUI to be incompatible with their student body expectations. Even when students are already enrolled, being charged with a DUI can result in disciplinary hearings, loss of campus housing privileges, or disqualification from leadership roles in clubs and organizations.
It’s important to understand that a criminal record can also limit access to study abroad programs, internship placements, and certain degree paths, especially in fields like education, law, or healthcare. These programs often require background checks, and a DUI can raise significant concerns about liability and professional fitness.
One of the most common concerns families have is whether a DUI conviction will lead to losing federal or private financial aid. The answer depends on the nature of the offense and the specific aid being received. A single underage DUI, without any drug-related charges, typically will not result in the loss of federal student loans or grants. However, if the DUI involved possession of controlled substances, then the student could face suspension of federal aid eligibility, depending on the conviction date and enrollment status.
Where students are most vulnerable is with private scholarships or state-funded financial aid programs. These often come with eligibility requirements that include a clean criminal record or a demonstration of moral character. Scholarships for athletics, leadership, or academic achievement may be revoked if the organization funding the award determines the student’s behavior reflects poorly on their values or reputation. Some scholarships require periodic reporting or background checks, and a conviction may disqualify the student from renewal.
Even if a student retains their financial aid, the cost of a DUI can be staggering. Fines, court fees, alcohol education classes, and increased car insurance rates can drain family resources, potentially impacting the ability to afford tuition or housing. For some families, a single DUI conviction becomes the tipping point between attending a top-choice college or settling for a more affordable alternative.
If you or your child has been arrested for an underage DUI in Colorado, time is critical. Taking immediate legal action can often prevent the charge from becoming a permanent barrier to educational advancement. In some cases, a skilled attorney may be able to reduce the charge to a non-criminal traffic infraction or secure a deferred judgment, which allows the charge to be dismissed after successful completion of probationary requirements.
At our firm, we understand the stakes involved. We’ve worked with many families to pursue alternatives such as community service, alcohol education, or treatment programs that demonstrate accountability and responsibility to both the courts and college admissions offices. Our underage drinking and driving defense services are focused on protecting not just legal rights but future opportunities as well.
It's also critical to be honest with colleges if their application process asks about criminal history. A well-written personal statement that takes responsibility, explains the circumstances, and shows personal growth can sometimes outweigh the offense itself. Colleges want to see evidence of maturity and a clear effort to avoid repeating mistakes. Letters from mentors, teachers, or counselors can also support the student’s commitment to change.
Students should also search for scholarships that recognize perseverance or are awarded to individuals who have overcome personal challenges. Many organizations support second chances, especially when students show genuine progress and community involvement. Taking the time to seek out these opportunities can help rebuild confidence and offset any aid that was lost.
For young people, a DUI conviction can feel like the end of the road, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right legal representation and a proactive approach, many students are able to keep their college plans on track. What matters most is addressing the issue head-on and seeking support early in the process.
The decisions made in the months following a DUI arrest can shape a person’s future for years to come. Education is a powerful tool, and losing access to it because of a single mistake can be a life-altering consequence. If you or someone you love is in this situation, don’t assume it will all work out on its own. The legal system, schools, and scholarship providers all have their own timelines and missing a deadline or failing to respond appropriately can shut doors that would otherwise stay open.
Let us help you protect your future. We’ll take the time to understand your specific situation, explain your options, and fight for the outcome that gives you the best chance at success. Reach out to us today to discuss your case and start building a plan forward.
@ 2025 The Law Office of James Colgan, LLC | All Rights Reserved
