In Colorado, a driver's license is required to legally operate a motor vehicle on public roads, which guarantees individuals have the necessary knowledge and skills for safe driving. This requirement is mandated by Colorado Revised Statutes Section 42-2-101.
Specifically, the Colorado Department of Revenue's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) implements and enforces this law. The state driver's license grants the privilege to provide proof of the holder's driving skills and identity.
However, it imposes limitations, such as restrictions for new drivers under the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system, which includes curfews and passenger limits for minors. Moreover, the DMV has a Motor Vehicle Investigations Unit that works to detect and prevent swindling-related services like counterfeit licenses while collaborating with law enforcement agencies.
What Are the Types of Driver's Licenses in Colorado?
Colorado provides a range of driver's licenses to meet the diverse needs of its residents. These include:
Commercial Driver Licenses
In Colorado, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is necessary for operating commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses, and it is categorized into different classes based on the type of vehicle:
Class A
This category allows the holder to operate any integrated vehicle with a gross combination weight level of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the hauled vehicle is greater than 10,000 pounds.
Class B
The Class B permits the holder to utilize any one vehicle with a gross weight mass of 26,001 pounds or more or any such motor hauling another vehicle not greater than 10,000 pounds.
Class C
The holder of this license is authorized to operate any one vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B but are designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or carry hazardous materials requiring placards.
Non-Commercial Driver Licenses
In addition to CDL, there are multiple types of non-commercial driver's licenses available in the state to suit different purposes, including:
Instruction Permit
It allows new drivers aged 15 to 21 to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed adult. Different types include the Driver Education Permit (15 years old), Driver Awareness Permit (15 years and six months), and Minor Instruction Permit (16 years old).
Minor Driver's License
Holders of this license are aged 16 to 21. They must possess an instruction permit and have met specific requirements, including completing a driver education course and supervised driving hours. This license comes with restrictions, such as limits on nighttime driving and the number of passengers.
Class R (Regular Driver's License)
This is the standard driver's license for operating passenger cars and trucks with a GVWR of 26,000 pounds or less. It also includes the ability to tow a vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds.
Motorcycle Endorsement
This can be added to an existing driver's license to allow the operation of motorcycles. It requires passing a written test and a motorcycle skills test.
Motorcycle-Only License
Individuals who only want to operate motorcycles are required to secure this license. It involves the same tests as the motorcycle endorsement but does not permit driving other types of vehicles.
How To Obtain a Driver's License in Colorado?
Securing an instruction permit is the first step to obtaining a driver's license in Colorado. This involves passing a written knowledge test and a vision screening to verify the applicant's driving knowledge and visual acuity.
In Colorado, individuals may also go through the pre-registration process before applying for a driver's license. During this process, applicants will be mandated to submit the following documentary requirements which include:
- Proof of identity
- Colorado residency
- Social Security number
- Pay the required fees
After completing the pre-registration process, individuals will receive a confirmation listing the required documents and fees needed for obtaining a driver's license or instruction permit. This confirmation should be printed or saved electronically and brought to the driver's license office along with the specified documents.
At the DMV office, the technician will scan the barcode on the confirmation, which will automatically populate the system with the pre-entered information. In applying for the driver's license, individuals must use the Colorado Driver License/ID Card Application (Form DR 2395).
To find detailed information regarding the identification and lawful presence requirements for obtaining a driver's license, ID card, or instruction permit in Colorado, one must refer to the Identification Requirements Charts.
Requirements for Minors
For minors, the additional step involves completing driver education and logging supervised driving hours. After obtaining an instruction permit, minors must complete 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, under a licensed driver aged 21 or older.
The driving hours must be recorded on the Drive Time Log Sheets (Form DR 2324).
Once minors complete their supervised driving hours and adults fulfill the other requirements for having an instruction permit, they must schedule and pass a driving skills test. After passing this test, the individual can apply for a full driver's license.
Vision Screening
Colorado requires a vision screening as part of the driver's license application process to confirm drivers have adequate vision for safe driving. The screening measures visual clarity and peripheral vision, and the license will note if corrective lenses are required.
The vision screening phase in Colorado's driver's license process is conducted during application. The form needed for this screening is the Confidential Eye Examination Report (Form DR 2402).
If applicants require corrective lenses, this must be indicated on Form DR 2402. The driver's license will reflect that corrective lenses are necessary for driving.
Knowledge Test
The knowledge test in Colorado is a written exam designed to assess an applicant's understanding of traffic rules, road signs, and safe driving habits. Composed of multiple-choice questions, the test requires a minimum score of 80% to pass. Colorado residents can complete their driver's knowledge exam through the official online testing platform.
If applicants fail the knowledge test twice a day, they can retake it the next business day. This indicates that there is no limit to the number of attempts allowed, but each attempt requires the payment of the testing fee.
Colorado applicants can also use online practice tests to prepare for the knowledge test and to make sure they understand the format and topics covered. These tests are designed to help improve their chances of passing the first attempt. Additionally, the Colorado Driver Handbook provides comprehensive study material.
Instruction Permit to a Full Driver's License
Upgrading an instruction permit to a full driver's license in Colorado can be completed online. Applicants must pass a driving skills test and complete drive time logs. Afterward, the required documents must be uploaded via the DMV's online platform. Setting up a Colorado Digital ID™ via the myColorado™ app is recommended.
For in-person conversion, individuals need to schedule a DMV appointment. Required documents include a valid instruction permit, drive time logs, identification documents, and applicable fees. Moreover, applicants must pass the vision and driving tests offered at the DMV office. Upon completion, a temporary license is issued.
Both methods require adherence to specific documentation and testing requirements to ensure eligibility and compliance with Colorado DMV regulations. This dual approach provides flexibility for applicants based on their preferences and circumstances.
In summary, the process of upgrading an instruction permit to a full driver's license involves fulfilling specific requirements related to driving skills testing and documentation submission, which confirms that applicants meet the state's standards for safe and competent driving.
Colorado DMV Road Test
The road test in Colorado is a practical assessment of a driver's competence in performing driving maneuvers on public roads. To schedule this test, drivers must go through approved driving schools, as the Colorado DMV does not conduct the tests. Appointments can be made online via the DMV website or by directly contacting the approved schools.
On the day of the road test in Colorado, drivers must bring their valid instruction permit, proof of identification, and any required documents. Additionally, they must arrive at the testing location a few minutes early to complete the necessary paperwork and be prepared for the test.
In Colorado, during the road test, examiners will assess the following skills:
- Proper lane usage
- Turning
- Stopping
- Backing up
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Vehicle control
- Situational awareness
- Adherence to traffic laws
- Speed control
- Recognizing and obeying road signs and traffic lights
- Right-of-way rules
- Lane changes
- Use of signals and hand signals
- Awareness of pedestrians and bicyclists
Colorado Driver's License Fees
The cost of obtaining a driver's license in Colorado depends on the license type. The fees include:
- Driver License: $30.87
- Instruction Permit (includes motorcycle): $18.52
- Duplicate Permit, License, or ID: $12 for the first duplicate and $16 for subsequent duplicates
Individuals can pay fees for obtaining a new driver's license at DMV locations using cash, check, or credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover). It is recommended that the exact amount be brought in cash, and checks should be made payable to the Department of Revenue.
After paying for a new driver's license, the document is typically mailed to the provided address. The processing and delivery time usually ranges from 10 to 14 business days, but it can sometimes take up to 30 business days.
For more information about obtaining a Class R license and other licenses or permits, refer to the Colorado Driver Handbook.
How To Renew or Replace a Driver's License in Colorado?
Colorado residents can renew or replace their driver's licenses by visiting a DMV office with the necessary documents and payment or using the online services on the Colorado DMV website.
License Renewal
Colorado residents must renew their driver's license before it expires, which can be done up to one year before the expiration date. If the license has expired for over a year, the driver must renew it in person at a DMV office and may need to pass additional tests.
Online
Eligible drivers can renew their licenses through the online renewal system. However, drivers must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as having a valid license and no significant changes in personal information.
By Mail
Drivers under 79 years old must complete the Renewal by Mail Application (DR 2746). Meanwhile, drivers 80 years old or older must fill out the Renewal by Mail Application (DR 2330). Both forms require a photocopy of a valid ID and proof of Colorado residency.
Renewing different driver's licenses in Colorado incurs fees similar to those outlined in the Colorado Driver's License Fees schedule.
If a license has expired and no renewal notice is received, applicants must fill out the required forms and personally submit them to any DMV office in the state.
In-person
For this method, individuals must bring a valid ID and proof of residency to a DMV office. They must also fill out the renewal application form and pass a vision screening. After paying the required fees, the new license will be mailed within 10 to 30 business days.
License Replacement
A replacement is necessary if the license requires an update to personal information or if it has been misplaced, damaged, or stolen. In Colorado, replacing a driver's license is possible through an in-person visit to a local CO DMV office or by sending a mail-in request.
By Mail
For those who are out of state or unable to visit a DMV office, Colorado allows for a duplicate license request by mail. This can be done by completing the Request for a Duplicate Instruction Permit/Driver License (DR 2989) form and sending it along with the required identification documents and payment to the Colorado DMV.
In-person
Another method for replacing a driver's license is by personally visiting a DMV office in any county. Individuals must bring proof of identity and residency, complete the replacement application, and pay the required fee. This option provides immediate assistance, allows for document verification, and offers the opportunity to update personal information.
Currently, the state does not currently offer an online option for replacing a driver's license. However, the previously mentioned methods are enough and will ensure that individuals can replace their driver's licenses efficiently.
What Happens if a Driver's License Is Suspended in Colorado?
A suspension of a driver's license in Colorado means temporarily losing the right of an individual to drive on the state road. A driver's license in Colorado can be suspended for various reasons, which include:
- Excess Points
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence) Violations
- DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) Violations
- Serious Traffic Violations
- Unpaid Traffic Tickets
- Child Support
- Medical Conditions
Notably, if a driver with a suspended license due to a DUI, categorized as a class two misdemeanor traffic offense, is found operating a vehicle, their suspension will be extended by one year. This infraction will result in drivers being penalized. Additionally, repeated offenses or driving without reinstating the license can lead to even more severe consequences.
To restore a suspended license, individuals must complete any court-mandated requirements, such as providing proof of insurance, completing any mandated programs or court directives, attending a defensive driving course, or providing an SR-22 insurance form. The Colorado DMV must guarantee that all requirements are met.
Lastly, a $95 reinstatement fee is required. If mandated, SR-22 insurance must also be purchased and maintained, which potentially increases their insurance costs. Other fines or court fees may apply based on the cause of the suspension.
Can Someone Drive in Colorado With a Foreign License?
Foreign visitors to Colorado can use their valid driver's license from their home country for short visits. However, they must apply for a Colorado driver's license if they plan to stay for more than 90 days or take up employment.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not required for short visits to Colorado if an individual holds a valid driver's license from their home country. However, having an IDP can be beneficial as it provides a translation of the driver's license, which may be helpful when dealing with local authorities or renting a car.
Can a Foreigner Get a Driver's License in Colorado?
Foreign visitors to Colorado can obtain a state driver's license by meeting the state's requirements, which include providing proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the U.S. and passing various tests. Once these criteria are met, foreigners can legally drive in Colorado with a state-issued license.
Individuals with valid driver's licenses from their home countries do not need to obtain a Colorado driver's license if they stay only for up to 90 days. However, if they intend to stay longer, they must acquire a state driver's license.
Foreigners must establish their residency in Colorado and adhere to these steps to obtain a license:
- Provide proof of identity and legal presence, such as a passport and visa.
- Submit documents showing Colorado residency, like a lease agreement or utility bill.
- Pass a written test by studying the Colorado Driver Handbook.
- Obtain a learner's permit, if required, and hold it for the necessary period.
- Pass a driving skills test.
- Pay the required fees for the application and license issuance.
- Complete and submit a driver's license application at a Colorado DMV office.
Note that some countries, such as Canada, France, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, have reciprocal agreements with Colorado, which allow their license holders to obtain a Colorado license without additional testing. In contrast, license holders from other countries must pass written and driving tests.
For more detailed information, foreigners can contact the Colorado DMV at (303) 205-5600 or email dor_dl@state.co.us.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Types of Driver's Licenses in Colorado?
- How To Obtain a Driver's License in Colorado?
- How To Renew or Replace a Driver's License in Colorado?
- What Happens if a Driver's License Is Suspended in Colorado?
- Can Someone Drive in Colorado With a Foreign License?
- Can a Foreigner Get a Driver's License in Colorado?