USA Colorado Driver License

Colorado Driver’s License: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Planning to apply for, renew, or transfer a Colorado Driver’s License? This up-to-date guide from the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (CO DMV) will walk you through the entire process.

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How to Get a Driver’s License in Colorado

Step 1: Determine the License Type
Most drivers will apply for a Class R license (standard motor vehicle). Other types include:

• Class A, B, C (CDL – Commercial Driver’s Licenses)
• Motorcycle endorsement (Class M)
• Instruction Permit (for new or teen drivers)

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Whether applying for a REAL ID-compliant or standard license, bring:

• Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport or birth certificate)
• Proof of Social Security number (SS card, W-2, 1099, etc.)
• Two proofs of Colorado residency (utility bill, bank statement, lease)
• Lawful presence or immigration documents (if applicable)

Step 3: Pass the Required Tests
First-time applicants must complete:

• Vision screening
• Written knowledge test
• Driving test — Scheduled with a third-party tester or DMV (not available at all locations)

If you’re under 18, you’ll also need to complete a driver’s education course.

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Colorado Teen Drivers: Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)

Colorado’s GDL system helps teens gain experience safely:

1. Instruction Permit (15–15½) – Requires driver’s ed
2. Instruction Permit (15½–16) – Requires 4-hour awareness course
3. Driver’s License (16+) – Must hold permit for at least 12 months
4. Restrictions:
   • No passengers under 21 for first 6 months
   • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. for first year
   • Seat belt use required at all times

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Transferring an Out-of-State License to Colorado

New residents must transfer their license within 30 days of moving.

To transfer, bring:

• Valid out-of-state license
• Required ID, SSN, and proof of residency
• Pass a vision test
• Written and road tests are waived if your license is valid and unexpired

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Renewing a Colorado Driver’s License

You can renew:

• Online via myDMV.Colorado.gov (if eligible)
• In person at a DMV location
• By mail for military or out-of-state residents

Most licenses are valid for 5 years and must be renewed before expiration.

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Colorado REAL ID – Gold Star License

By May 7, 2025, you must present a REAL ID (or passport) to fly domestically or access secure federal buildings.

To get a REAL ID:

• Visit a DMV in person
• Provide proof of identity, SSN, and residency
• REAL ID licenses are marked with a gold star in the upper right corner

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Colorado Driver’s License Fees (2025)

License Type	Fee (Approx.)
Class R (Standard License, 5 yrs)	$33.00
Instruction Permit	$18.52
Motorcycle Endorsement	$2.00 (added to license fee)
Replacement / Duplicate License	$12.00
CDL License	Varies

Additional testing fees may apply for third-party testers.

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Required Documents Checklist

• U.S. birth certificate or valid passport
• Social Security number verification
• Two Colorado residency documents
• Out-of-state license (if transferring)
• Proof of lawful presence (if applicable)

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Colorado DMV Services

• New driver’s licenses and learner’s permits
• REAL ID upgrades and renewals
• Out-of-state license transfers
• Motorcycle and CDL licensing
• Written and road test scheduling
• Address and name changes
• Vision screenings and document updates

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For appointments, testing locations, and service eligibility, visit the official Colorado DMV website.