Driving with an expired license in Colorado is illegal, so make sure to renew yours before your next road trip. Fortunately, the process is pretty straightforward. You can renew your license in person, through the mail, or online — as long as you meet certain requirements.
This step-by-step guide will help you understand all there is to know about renewing your driver's license in Colorado. Let's dive in.
Renewing Your License in Person
The first option you have is to visit your local DMV office. Depending on where you live, this could be the easiest way of getting a new license.
Step 1: Schedule an Appointment
Avoid long lines byscheduling an appointmentat your local DMV office.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
Remember to take essential documents with you:
Your valid or expired license
Social Security number
Proof of Colorado address (two documents)
Step 3: Attend the Appointment
During the appointment, you will need to:
Have your picture taken
Leave your signature on file
Be fingerprinted
Take a vision test
If your license has been expired for over a year, the process is more complicated. You will need to take a written test, purchase a driving permit, and pass a road test. Only then will you get your new driver's license.
Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fee
Once that's all done, it's time to pay the renewal feeof $30.87.
Step 5: Wait for Your New License in the Mail
Your new driver's license will be mailed to your address. You should have it in 10 to 14 business days. But don't worry: once you pay the fee, you'll receive a provisional license extension allowing you to drive for 30 days.
Mail-In Driver's License Renewal
If visiting a DMV office in person isn't right for you, you could try mailing your renewal forms instead.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
First, check if you're eligible to renew your license through the mail. You need to:
Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or an undocumented resident
Have a valid license or one that expired less than a year ago
Be at least 21 years old
Have a Social Security number on file with the DMV
Have had an eye exam in the past year
Not have had any name changes
Not have any outstanding tickets or violations
You can also check your eligibility directly on the Colorado DMV website.
Step 2: Complete the Correct Form
If you meet the criteria, print and fill out the DR 2746 form.
Step 3: Enclose a Check or Money Order
You can pay the $30.87 renewal fee with a check or money order. Write down your nine-digit driver's license number. Remember, never send cash through the mail.
Step 4: Mail Your Application
Finally, send off your application and payment to:
State of Colorado
Department of Revenue Division of Motor Vehicles
PO Box 173345
Denver, CO 80217-3345
Online License Renewal Process
Your last option is also probably the most convenient: renewing your license online.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
You need to meet the following requirements if you want to renew your license online:
Be between 21 and 65 years old
Be a U.S. citizen
Have a license that's valid or expired less than a year ago
Have obtained your current license in person
Not have any recent name changes
Have a Social Security number on file with the DMV
Have had an eye exam in the past year
Not have any outstanding tickets or violations
Step 2: Start Your Online Application
Apply to renew your license directly on the Colorado DMV website. You can also confirm your eligibility for online renewal on that page.
Step 3: Pay the Renewal Fee
Use a credit card to pay the $30.87 renewal fee.
If You Need to Retake Classes, Aceable Is There for You
Needing to retake Colorado driver's ed? Don't worry, Aceable has you covered. The lessons are fully online and self-paced, so you can fit them into your busy schedule. And even if you don't need to retake any classes, you can still brush up on your knowledge with the help of our blog posts so you can continue being a good driver.
Updated 12/8/22