Real ID requirements will be in place on October 1st, 2021. If you intend to get a REAL ID, you will likely need to visit a DMV in person.

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Important Notice About Real ID Implementation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to file a police report if my license was lost or stolen?

No. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles does not require that you file a police report when dealing with a stolen drivers license. In any case, drivers are still recommended to report the theft of important driving credentials to a local police station to help prevent fraudulent activity.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Colorado Driver’s License or ID Card

How can I obtain a copy of the driver manual?

In order to familiarize yourself with all of the important road regulations and traffic signs, one must study the Colorado Driver s Handbook. To access this manual in an effort to help you obtain your license to drive, click here.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

How can I renew my drivers license?

Colorado drivers can renew drivers license documents in three ways: online, by mail and in person.

Online

To renew online, residents must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • This is not your first license.
  • This is not a 10-year license.
  • You are between the ages of 21 and 65.
  • You have not changed your name.
  • You are a US citizen.
  • Your Social Security Number is on file with the DMV.
  • You do not need to take any tests at the DMV.
  • You do not have outstanding tickets, bad checks or pending actions.
  • Your expired license has been expired for less than one year, if applicable.
  • You have not renewed online the last two times.

If you meet the qualifications, visit the CO online system and provide your credit card information, email address and Colorado drivers license number.

By Mail

Only CO residents who have clean driving records have the option to renew by mail. To do so, you must go online to print out a Renew By Mail Application form, which can only be done by providing the following information:

  • CO driving license number
  • Birth date
  • Full name

Print out and mail the form and payment to the address listed on the application.

In Person

In order to renew in person, one must follow these steps:

  1. Visit a local driver license office.
  2. Provide your Social Security Number.
  3. Provide your CO drivers license (must be expired for less than one year or not at all).
  • If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must take the driving test, written test and pay for a driving permit and license.

Show proof of residency:

  • Bank statement
  • Utility bill

Pass a vision test. Pay renewal fee. Give your signature and fingerprint.
Have your photo taken.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

How do I apply for a drivers license?

In order to apply for drivers license documentation, follow the steps outlined below:

1. Compile necessary identification documents (either one standalone document or a combination to prove name, age, identity and legal presence):

  • US passports and valid I-551 cards act as standalone documents
  • Birth certificates, Certificates of Citizenship prove legal presence
  • Military ID, ID cards, out-of-state licenses prove name, age and identity

2. Schedule your driving test.

3. Visit a local driver license office and provide:

  • Active driving permit
  • Social Security Number
  • Proof of address:
    • Credit card statement
    • Utility bill
  • Certificate of completion form (if you already passed the road skills test)
  • Valid car registration and car insurance (if you are about to take the road skills test)
  • Payment for the $21 licensing fee

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

How do I get a replacement license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?

Due to your out-of-state status, you must fill out an Out of State Reissue/Extension DR 2989 form. After the application is completed, send it to the address that is listed on the form, and be sure to include your out-of-state address so that it arrives at the proper location.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Colorado Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I obtain a duplicate license?

Only minors, out-of-state drivers and commercial drivers can obtain drivers license replacements in the state of Colorado. All other drivers are required to go through the process of renewing drivers license credentials. Renewals can be done online, by mail or in person at a local driver license office.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Colorado Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I reinstate my suspended license?

The process for reinstating suspended drivers license documentation varies based on your situation.

Unpaid citations (both inside Colorado and out-of-state):

  • Pay court receipt.
  • Pay $95 reinstatement fee.
  • Purchase a new CO drivers license.
  • Unpaid child support:
    • Pay child support and make sure DMV receives compliance from agency.
    • Pay $95 reinstatement fee.
  • Point-based suspensions:
    • Wait for the suspension period to end.
    • Pay $95 reinstatement fee.
    • Provide proof of liability insurance.

This process can be completed at a local driver license office or by mail. Applicants who want to apply by mail must fill out an Application for Reinstatement DR 2870 form.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Colorado

How do I renew my license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?

Out-of-state residents have multiple options for renewing drivers license documents. First of all, you can request a three-year extension by filling out an Out of State Reissue/Extension DR 2989 form. Your second option is to renew by mail and have your renewed license sent to your current duty station address.

It is important to note that drivers licenses that have been expired for more than one year must be renewed in person in Colorado.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

How do I replace my license if I am a non-U.S. citizen?

Standard drivers are not allowed to replace drivers license credentials. Instead, they are required to go through the process of getting a renewed license. During this process, non-US citizens are required to go to a local driver license office in person and cannot apply online or by mail.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

How do I replace my license if I lost it out of state?

If you are an adult driver who has lost their drivers license while out of state, fill out an Out of State Reissue/Extension DR 2989 form. Once the application is completed, mail it in to the address listed on the form with payment to obtain a Colorado drivers license replacement.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Colorado Driver’s License or ID Card

How does the DMV check my vision?

The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles realizes the importance of strong sight when it comes to driving. Thus, in order to obtain a drivers license, your field vision and recognition of basic colors will be tested. If you do not pass this test, you may be required to see an eye specialist and obtain correctional lenses.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

How long will I have a suspended license for not taking a chemical test?

Refusing to take a chemical test will result in a one-year revocation of your license. Any other drivers license suspension will be added on to the end of the revocation period. Additionally, drivers who refuse to take this test will also incur an automatic two-year ignition interlock requirement.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Colorado

How soon can I renew my driver’s license?

In the state of Colorado, the Division of Motor Vehicles allow for CO drivers license renewals approximately six weeks before the expiration of someone s driving license. Keep in mind that not renewing credentials before the expiration date will result in your having to pay a late fee of $15 to the DMV.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

If I file a police report, will my replacement fee be waived?

The CO DMV does not require that drivers report a stolen or lost drivers license. Thus, the Division of Motor Vehicles will not waive any fees for replacing credentials.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Colorado Driver’s License or ID Card

Is there an age limit to renew your license?

No. As long as you have a valid Colorado drivers license, you can apply for CO drivers license renewal. However, for online drivers license renewals, you must be between 21 and 65 years of age.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

What address will my replacement license be mailed to?

When requesting a duplicate drivers license in Colorado as a minor or CDL driver, your replacement will be mailed to the address that is currently on file with the Division of Motor Vehicles. The same thing goes for standard drivers who are renewing their license.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Colorado Driver’s License or ID Card

What are requirements for seniors to renew a driving license?

Senior drivers can renew their driving license by mail every other cycle. In addition, renewals in person at a local driver license office are always allowed. When visiting a branch, they must pass a vision test and bring:

  • CO drivers license.
  • Your Social Security Number or proof of ineligibility from the SSA.
  • Proof of address:
    • Utility bill
    • Credit card statement
  • Payment for the renewal fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

What are some violations that may constitute in a suspended license?

There are a number of ways that a driver can incur a drivers license suspension in the state of Colorado. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Driving under the influence.
  • Driving with a suspended license.
  • Reckless driving.
  • An excess of violation points.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Colorado

What are the consequences of driving with a suspended license?

Drivers who are caught operating a vehicle with a suspended drivers license in Colorado can expect to incur the following penalties:

  • A lengthened suspension period
  • Possible imprisonment
  • Fines of up to $500

For more information: Suspended License Information for Colorado

What are the fees for a duplicate drivers license?

If you are a minor or a commercial driver, it will cost you $7.50 to obtain a first duplicate drivers license. A second duplicate will cost $14. However, if you are not a minor or a CDL driver, you must go through the process of renewal and pay the applicable fees:

  • $21 for standard drivers license
  • $23 for license and CO motorcycle endorsement

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Colorado Driver’s License or ID Card

What are the reinstatement fees I will have to pay for a suspended license?

The fee to reinstate suspended drivers license credentials in Colorado is $95. In addition to this charge, drivers will also have to pay any unpaid traffic fines or child support. Furthermore, a new license fee is added to any ticket-based suspension.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Colorado

What are the suspensions eligible for a hardship license?

The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles does not offer hardships licenses. However, eligible drivers who were convicted of driving under the influence can submit a Restricted License Ignition Interlock Agreement Affidavit DR 2058 form to obtain an ignition interlock license.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Colorado

What do I need to do to get my driver’s license if I fail the driving test?

Any driver who fails the driving test on their first attempt will have to reschedule and retake the exam at a later date. You are encouraged to continue studying the official CO Driver s Manual, as well as take a Practice Test.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

What documents do I need to get my drivers license?

In order to successfully submit a drivers license application, residents must provide all of the following documents:

  • Proof of address
  • Proof of road skills exam completion (or registration/proof of insurance, if taking the exam)
  • Proof of ID (either one standalone document or a combination of documents that prove your name, age, identity and legal presence)

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

What documents do I need to present to renew my drivers license?

If you visit a driver license office in person, you must provide the following documentation:

  • Proof of CO residency:
    • Bank statement
    • Utility bill
    • Credit card statement
  • Current drivers license
  • Social Security card (or just the number, if you know it)

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

What documents will I need to present to replace my drivers license?

The state of Colorado does not allow non-minors and non-CDL drivers to apply for a CO drivers license copy. Instead, these drivers must renew their credentials. The documents required for an in-person renewal are as follows:

  • Proof of ID:
    • US passport
    • Valid I-551
  • Proof of Colorado residency:
    • Bank statement
    • Utility bill
    • Credit card statement
  • Social Security card (or just the number, if you know it)

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Colorado Driver’s License or ID Card

What languages is the written test available in?

The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles offers their handbook in both English and Spanish to accommodate a variety of their residents. Studying the guide is crucial before attempting to take the drivers license written exam. The test itself is available in English and Spanish, with the option to bring an interpreter if you speak a different language.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

What penalties will I face if I do not renew my expired drivers license?

In the event you do not renew expired drivers license credentials in due time, you will incur a late fine when you finally choose to update your documentation. The late fee is $15. In addition, Colorado police can write you a ticket for your expired license.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

What should I do if I have not received my renewed license?

When renewing drivers license credentials by mail or online, it can take up to 30 business days to receive your new license. If 30 business days pass and you are still without a license, it is recommended that you call 303-205-5600 for details on the processing time.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

What tests will I need to take for my drivers license?

In order to get drivers license credentials, one must pass the written knowledge and road skills exams. These tests use material found in the Colorado Driver s Handbook to make sure that you will be a safe driver.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

What type of noncommercial license will I need?

As a standard driver, the Class R noncommercial driving license is the credential that you are looking for. Before applying, look into information on the application process and what documents one must bring in order to obtain these privileges.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

When can I reinstate my license after it has been suspended?

The amount of time that you have to wait to reinstate your suspended drivers license in CO depends on the nature of your original offense. The breakdown for different violations is as follows:

  • A failure to pay child support: Reinstatement is possible after the bill is paid.
  • Unpaid tickets: Reinstatement can begin after fines are paid.
  • Point-based suspensions: Reinstatement is possible after your predetermined suspension period is done.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Colorado

When will I need to renew my license?

Drivers are required to perform drivers license renewal in Colorado before the expiration date listed on their card. If you would like to renew early on, the CO DMV allows residents to update credentials about six weeks before their license is set to expire.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

When will I receive a replacement license after applying?

The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles is very selective of who can receive a drivers license replacement. Whereas minors and commercial drivers can get the duplicate credential, standard drivers are required to go through the process of renewing their license. In any case, a license replacement can take up to 30 business days to be delivered.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Colorado Driver’s License or ID Card

Where can I check to see if my license is suspended?

If you are not sure if your drivers license has been suspended or are not sure when the suspension period is over, you can contact customer service at 303-205-5613 or fill out the online form here. Another way to access drivers license suspension information is by ordering your driving record online.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Colorado

Where can I find the DMV locations?

Please follow the link below for your nearest DMV location:

Colorado DMV Office Contact Information

Where can I get a new drivers license?

A drivers license must be applied for in a driver license office. Fortunately, these can be found all across the state. To find the location nearest you so that you can begin the process of applying, click here.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Colorado

Will I be required to take a vision test for a drivers license renewal?

Yes. Drivers who choose to go in person to a local driver license office for Colorado drivers license renewal should expect to undergo a vision test. This is done to ensure that your vision meets state standards for safe driving.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado

Will I get a drivers license renewal notice in the mail?

Yes. Drivers in the state of Colorado should receive renewal notices once it approaches to time to renew drivers license credentials. However, if you did not receive a notification letter and your license is about to expire, it is still your responsibility to renew.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Colorado