Colorado Driver’s License Renewal Guide

Updated On July 10, 2021
The centennial state of Colorado, known for its outdoor attractions and beauty, is arguably one of the more difficult states to drive in, if you’re not used to mountainous roads. Not only are the roads winding and narrow, but Colorado’s higher altitude contributes even more to the challenges of driving there.

Colorado roads call for more attention and control while driving. In a self- reporting survey, more than 90% of Colorado drivers admitted to driving distracted. Unfortunately, an average of 43 crashes happens every day due to distracted driving, that could otherwise be avoided. Continue reading for more information about driver’s license renewal in Colorado.

How to Renew a Colorado Driver’s License

When it’s time to renew your license, the State of Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will send you your Colorado driver’s license renewal application via USPS mail to your current address listed on your driver’s license.

If you don’t receive an application, it could mean that the DMV does not have your current address. Whether you received a renewal application, or you know that your license is expiring soon, here is a guide for how to renew a Colorado driver’s license.

How Do I Renew My Driver’s License In Colorado?

Colorado residents can make schedule an appointment to renew a driver’s license in person at the nearest DMV location.

These appointments online or by phone and can help avoid waiting in long lines for your turn. You can go to the office without an appointment but expect to wait longer.

Required License Renewal Documents

What do I need to renew by Colorado driver’s license in person?

To complete the in person license renewal process, you will need your current, valid driver’s license. If your license has been expired for less than one year, it is still considered valid.

If you are changing your address, you will need to provide proof of your new address. Acceptable documents to verify your DMV change of address include:

• Utility, credit card, or other bill.
• Bank statement.
• Pay stub.
• Insurance policy.
• Rental, mortgage or lease contract.

When renewing your license in person at the DMV, you will need to take and pass a vision screening test. You will also be required to have your signature and fingerprint captured, as well as your photograph taken.

Online Driver’s License Renewal

In order to renew online, you must hold a valid license. If your license is expired for more than one year, revoked, suspended or cancelled, you must go in person to complete the Colorado driver’s license renewal process.

You must also go in person if you are looking to renew or obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Required License Renewal Documents

Colorado residents have the option to renew their driver’s license online, though there are certain eligibility requirements. The following is required to be eligible to renew your license online:

• U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Current driver’s license must be valid.
• Have not changed your name since your last license.
• Social Security number is on file.
• Between age 21 to 65 years old.
• No outstanding tickets and a clean record.
• You received your last license in person or have not renewed online the last two times.
• No special license testing conditions are required.

Required Online License Renewal Fees

To renew your license online you will need a valid credit card for payment and an email address.

If you need to change your address, you can do so during the online renewal process. In addition, you must submit a report of an eye examination that has been performed in the last three years.

Once you complete your Colorado license renewal online, your new driver’s license or state ID card will be mailed via USPS to the address you provided. You should allow up to 30 days to receive your permanent license.

Renewing Your Driver’s License By Mail

Your renewal application will tell you if you are eligible to renew your Colorado driver’s license by mail.

To renew by mail, simply complete the Renew by Mail application sent to you. Enclose your check and mail to the address provided on the application form.

Required Colorado DMV Driver’s License Renewal Fees

The final step to complete the renewal process is to pay the $27 required fee.

Renewing an Expired Driver’s License

If your CO DMV driver’s license or state ID card has expired, you will need to start over with renewal process by passing the written test and also passing the driving skills test. Additionally, you will need to provide two documents proving Colorado residency.

Proof of valid Social Security Number is also required, with the following forms of verification considered acceptable:

• Social Security card.
• W-2 or 1099 form.
• Pay stub.

You will have to pass a vision test and have your signature and photo captured.

Letting your driver’s license expire beyond one year is time consuming and costly. It is also illegal to drive with an expired license and can lead to even steeper fines if you are caught.

The state of Colorado makes it easy to renew your driver’s license and stay current.

Should you have any more questions regarding CO DMV license renewal, be sure to contact the nearest DMV location.