Have you got a Colorado driver’s license after undergoing many processes and tests? Now you can drive on the mountainous roads enjoying the beauty of ‘Colorful Colorado.’ But, in between this, you may feel nervous again when it’s time for the Colorado driver’s license renewal. But, there isn’t any reason for you to be worried about it!
You can renew your driver’s license in Colorado before the expiration date and for up to a year within it. In addition, drivers may renew non-commercial driver’s licenses for up to one year after the expiration date without taking a test.
So, what should a driver need to get a Colorado driver’s license renewal? What are the modes by which you can do driver’s license renewal in Colorado? This blog is for you if you’ve recently moved to Colorado or want to avoid going to the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
Can I renew my Colorado driver’s license before it expires?
You can renew your Colorado driver’s license or ID card anytime before it expires. But don’t wait until it’s too late. You can’t renew it online if your license has expired for more than a year. However, a driver can renew non-commercial driver’s licenses and instruction permits for up to one year after expiring without taking a test.
How early can I renew my Colorado driver’s license?
You can renew your driver’s license or ID card any time before it expires, so don’t wait until it’s too late. Unfortunately, online renewals aren’t available if your license remains expired for more than a year.
How to renew a driver’s license in Colorado
There are three ways to do a Colorado driver’s license renewal.
- Online
- In-person
- Via mail
How to renew a Colorado driver’s license online
Drivers aged between 21 and 80 can usually renew their licenses online without much issue; they have to self-certify that they had an eye examination the previous year.
Eligibility to renew the license
You must fulfill these conditions for a Colorado driver’s license renewal.
- Your age should be between 21 and 65.
- You must be a citizen of the US or have permanent resident status, and you must not have changed your name since your last renewal.
- Should possess a valid license or one expired less than a year ago. You must have renewed your previous driver’s license in person and paid a renewal fee using a valid credit or debit card.
Once you’re eligible for online renewal, visit the Colorado DMV website and follow the instructions to renew your license online. Then, pay the renewal fees of $26 (administrative costs in extra) using a credit card for your new license.
How to renew a Colorado driver’s license in-person
Residents of Colorado have the option of renewing their driver’s license in person. However, certain some need to visit their local DMV to finish the process. If the following conditions apply, you must renew your license in person.
- Upgrading from a minor to an adult driver’s license.
- Your age is above 65.
- The driver holds an SB251 license.
- Your SSN is not on file with the DMV.
- Your name got changed after the last renewal.
- The driver needs to retake either the written or the road exam.
- You’ve already completed two online renewals in a row or want a new photo for your ID.
Steps to follow for completing the renewal process
- Fix a Colorado driver’s license renewal appointment with the local DMV office.
- Produce the necessary documents. It includes your current driving license, completed renewal application form, proof of SSN, and residence proof.
- Pass the vision test.
- Pay the renewal fee by cash, cheque, or credit card.
- Take a photograph and record your fingerprint.
- Then, get your license within 30 days.
How to renew a Colorado driver’s license by mail
If you’re above 21 years old, have not changed your name, and haven’t renewed your license by mail or online in the previous two years, mail renewals are possible. In most situations, eligible drivers receive a letter from the DMV advising them of the option of renewing their driver’s license via mail at their last address on record.
Military personnel outside of Colorado can also renew by mail if their license hasn’t expired for more than a year. Military personnel can also request a three-year extension on their renewal date. They must submit the Request for Extension form DR2989, available at the Colorado DMV’s website.
Colorado residents who are temporarily out of state can use this form to request a license renewal extension. You must produce this request before the current license expires. The driver’s record must be free of all penalties and offenses.
Steps to follow for completing the renewal process
- Check whether you’ve received the letter from DMV.
- Fill out the application form.
- Include the renewal fee by check or money order with the 9-digit license number written.
- Then send the completed application to this address – State of Colorado, Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles, PO Box 173345, Denver, CO 80217-3345.
- Wait for eight weeks to process your application and get your license mailed.
Ways by which your application can get rejected
Your renewal application will get rejected if you fail to do these things.
- Complete the renewal form or sign it.
- Include your driving license number or needed documents.
- Include the Colorado driver’s license renewal fee.
How much is a Colorado driver’s license renewal?
It will cost you around $26 for a normal driving license renewal. However, for SB251 license renewal, a driver may need to pay around $80. You can make the license renewal payment via cash, credit card, or check.
Is there a grace period for renewing your driver’s license in Colorado?
Yes. You will get a 30-day grace period after a driver’s license expires in Colorado. A driver must retake their written and road exams a year after their license expires.
Where to renew your driver’s license in Colorado?
If you’re doing it in person, you can do it at any Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles location. For that, you have to make a Colorado driver’s license renewal appointment soon as possible. In addition, you must produce your expired driver’s license or permit with you.
Can I renew my Colorado driver’s license online if I am over 65?
Yes. From March 2020, the DMV started allowing residents 65 and older to renew their driving licenses online.
How much is it to reinstate your driver’s license in Colorado?
Reinstating your license in Colorado will cost you $95. You can pay the fee online or by mail with a check or money order. You will receive a mail when you get approval for reinstating your license.
How can you renew an expired driving license in Colorado?
If your driver’s license or state ID card has expired, you must begin the renewal process by passing both the written and driving skills tests. You’ll also have to produce two documents showing your Colorado residency. These are some forms that can verify your residency.
- Pay stub
- W-2 or 1099 form
- Social security card
You must pass a vision examination and have your signature and photo taken. Allowing your driver’s license to remain expired for more than a year is troublesome and costly. Driving with an expired license is likewise unlawful and can incur penalties if caught.
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