What to bring for a Colorado permit or state ID

Proof of identity

U.S. citizens and permanent residents bring one document such as an unexpired U.S. passport or passport card, a Colorado license, permit or ID expired less than 10 years, or a permanent resident card. Or bring one from each list:

• List A: a certified U.S. birth certificate (not a hospital or short-form copy), a consular report of birth abroad, or a naturalization certificate issued more than 20 years ago.
• List B: a photo ID such as an out-of-state license, a military ID, or, if you're under 21, your parent or guardian's ID plus proof of guardianship.
• A school ID alone isn't enough. If your ID doesn't show your full legal name, bring another document that does.

Proof of your Colorado address

One document for a Standard credential, two for REAL ID. Each must show your full name and Colorado street address (no P.O. boxes) and be dated within the last year.

Bank statements, pay stubs, utility or phone bills, leases, insurance policies, school transcripts and first-class government mail all count. Junk mail and handwritten documents don't. Under 21, the adult who comes with you can use their own address documents.

Extra steps for teens

1. Under 18, a parent, guardian or responsible adult 21 or older with a Colorado license signs the DR 2460 Affidavit of Liability at the appointment. If they can't come, it must be signed in front of DMV staff or a notary.
2. Under 21 with no government ID: a parent or guardian brings their ID and certified proof of guardianship, such as your birth certificate, and signs an Affidavit of Identity on the spot. A power of attorney isn't accepted.
3. 15 to 16: bring proof you finished driver education.
4. If you passed the written test online, bring the @Home pass certificate, printed or on your phone.

Getting a Colorado state ID instead

You can hold a Colorado driver license or permit, or an ID card, but not both. A first ID card needs the same identity, Social Security and address documents and an appointment at a driver license office.

A REAL ID card costs $14 if you're under 60 and is free if you're over 60, as of October 2026. Under 21, a parent or guardian must come with you. Cards are mailed, usually in 10 to 14 business days.

Documents in another language, or with a different name

Photocopies, photos and notarized copies aren't accepted. A document that isn't in English needs the original plus a full English translation with the translator's signed affirmation and license or ID number on the same page.

If your name has changed, bring the marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order for each change, and update Social Security first.