3 Ways to Renew Your Driver's License in Colorado


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