🪪 Driving Under Restraint – Outstanding Judgment Warrant (DUR-OJW)

Driving Under Restraint for an Outstanding Judgment Warrant (DUR-OJW) is one of the lesser-known “restraint” charges in Colorado, but it still carries real consequences. Although it’s classified as a Class A traffic infraction—not a misdemeanor—it can still result in points on your license, fines, and potential insurance or employment problems.

I’ve defended many DUR cases across Colorado, including OJW-related restraints, and I understand the odd dynamics these cases present under current law.

What the Law Says

Under C.R.S. 42-2-138(1.5), a person commits Driving Under Restraint – Outstanding Judgment Warrant if they:

“Drive a motor vehicle upon any highway of this state with knowledge that their license or privilege to drive is under restraint for an outstanding judgment.”

An Outstanding Judgment Warrant (OJW) is a hold placed on your driver’s license by the Colorado Department of Revenue. It’s usually generated when:

• A traffic ticket or civil penalty goes unpaid and the court enters it as a judgment, or
• A driver fails to appear in court for a criminal-traffic case, causing the court to issue both an OJW hold on the license and a bench warrant for the failure to appear.

Either way, the OJW creates a license restraint until the underlying court matter is addressed—or the license is reinstated under modern law.

👉 If your restraint is alcohol-related, see my Driving Under Restraint – Alcohol Related page.

Penalties for DUR-OJW

• Class A Traffic Infraction (not a criminal offense)
• Fine: Up to $100
• DMV Points: 3 points assessed to your driving record
• No jail time authorized
• No extension of restraint period under current law

What makes DUR-OJW unique is that, since 2022, an active OJW no longer blocks reinstatement of your Colorado license. Under C.R.S. 42-2-118.1, the DMV can reinstate your license even if the OJW is still outstanding.

The underlying judgment or warrant still exists—you may still owe the original court—but the DMV will no longer keep your license suspended because of it.

👉 Learn more about other restraint charges on my Denver Driving Under Restraint (DUR) – 2025 Guide.

Common Defenses

Every DUR-OJW case deserves careful review. Possible defenses may include:

• Lack of Knowledge: You didn’t know your license was under restraint for an OJW.
• Improper OJW Record: The restraint was entered in error or never cleared after payment.
• Clerical or Notification Errors: The DMV or court failed to properly notify you of the OJW or reinstatement eligibility.
• Expired or Lifted Restraint: The OJW was already satisfied, but the database wasn’t updated.
• Stop or ID Issues: Police lacked a lawful reason to stop or identify you in the first place.

Even though this offense carries no jail time, a conviction can still affect your driving record and insurance premiums. Clearing the OJW and resolving the underlying case quickly is often key to avoiding long-term consequences.

Real-World Impact

Many people are surprised to learn they can be cited for DUR-OJW even after paying the original ticket—if the court or DMV never cleared the hold. It’s one of those technical charges that can follow you long after a simple traffic fine or missed court date.

A careful review of your driver’s abstract and DMV records can often reveal administrative errors or reinstatement opportunities that may end the case favorably.

Call Me Today

If you’ve been cited for Driving Under Restraint – Outstanding Judgment Warrant in Colorado, call me directly at 303-355-5148 for a free consultation.

You’ll speak with me, Monte Robbins—not a screener or assistant. I’ll personally review your record, help you navigate reinstatement, and fight to protect your driving privilege and your record.