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Well, if it isn’t the Centennial state! In this article, you will discover how to receive your Colorado driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, and motorcycle license. Let’s discuss the types of driver’s licenses that are available in the state of Colorado first.

Types of Colorado Driver’s Licenses

There are different types of driver’s licenses in the state of Colorado, which include non-commercial and commercial driver’s licenses. Let’s explore your options!

Class R – a Class R driver’s license is the standard non-commercial driver’s license in Colorado. This license is the one most drivers in CO obtain.

Class M – this motorcycle endorsement is added to your driver’s license if you meet the qualifications and complete and pass the necessary exams. Two or three-wheeled motorcycles that do not exceed 50cc or electric scooters and bikes that do not exceed 40 mph are not included in the Class M endorsement category and can be operated with a Class R CO driver’s license.

Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL) – commercial driver’s licenses allow you to operate vehicles commercial vehicles based on their gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR).

  • Class A – allows you to operate any combination of vehicles with a GCWR that exceeds 26,000 lbs. assuming the GCWR of the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 lbs. GCWR. Vehicles in the Class A CDL include:
    • Semi-trucks
    • Trailer trucks
    • Tractors
    • Tractor-trailer buses

With a Class A CDL, you can also operate vehicles that fall into the Class B and Class C CDL categories.

  • Class B (CDL) – a commercial license that allows you to operate vehicles that are greater or equal to 26,000 lbs. assuming there is a towing capacity of 10,000 lbs. GCWR. With a Class B CDL, you are permitted to operate the following vehicles:
    • Cement mixers
    • Dump trucks
    • Straight trucks
    • Buses

You can also operate vehicles that fall in the Class C CDL category.

  • Class C (CDL) – a commercial license that allows you to operate vehicles that have a GCWR that does not exceed 26,001 lbs. and a towing capacity that does not exceed 10,000 lbs. GCWR. With a Class C CDL, you are allowed to operate any two-axle vehicle that meets the previously-stated requirement for this class of CDL.

Other situations will require you to obtain a CDL, such as the operation of a:

  • Bus
  • Taxi or limousine (chauffeur license)
  • Shuttle van

Colorado Driver’s License Requirements

To receive your official CO driver’s license, you must be at least 16 years old. You must present the following documentation:

  • Valid instruction permit
  • Social security number (you can use your Social Security card, W-2 form, a paycheck that shows your name and SSN, or a signed affidavit that states you are not eligible for an SSN).
  • Proof of Colorado residency (proof of residency documents can include a bank statement, a pre-printed pay stub, a USPS change of address form, and computer-generated bills). Form DD214 must be dated within one year of application.
  • Proof of identity (identification documents can include your U.S. birth certificate, U.S. Passport, U.S. Armed Forces ID cards, Certificate of Naturalization, Permanent Resident card, or a foreign passport with a valid I-94.

Driving Requirements for Young Drivers

Individuals who are minors in Colorado, aged 16-18, can also apply for a CO driver’s license. Be advised that as a minor in Colorado, you must first attain a valid CO permit for at least 12 months. Your application must also be signed by your parents(s) or legal guardian(s).

In addition to the above-mentioned documents, as a minor, you will also need to present the following documentation:

  • Completed drive time log sheets (Form DR-2324). The log sheet must have a total of 50 hours of driving time. 10 of these hours must be completed at night. Your parent, guardian, or responsible adult must sign the form.
  • Your Behind-the-Wheel Training Completion Certificate

What Are the Driving Requirements for Out-of-State Drivers?

If you have a valid, out-of-state driver’s license, you can transfer your current license to a Colorado driver’s license. Once you transfer your current license and receive your CO driver’s license, your out-of-state license will no longer be valid.

You will be required to show your motor vehicle record from your previous state if you can’t present an out-of-state driver’s license. Presenting your out-of-state license or your driving record from the previous state will exempt you from the Colorado written and road test.

As a new Colorado resident who is younger than 21, you must also present an Affidavit of Identity (Form DR-2304) that must be signed by your parent or legal guardian with a driver’s license employee as a witness.

You will NOT be issued a Colorado driver’s license if you:

  • Have any suspensions, revocations, or denials of your driving privileges in ANY state
  • Violate federal immigration laws
  • Have been deemed mentally incompetent
  • Have been deemed an alcoholic or habitual narcotics user
  • Have any outstanding debts or fines for traffic violations

Applying for Your Colorado Driver’s License

Before you can apply for your full, official Colorado driver’s license, you must first get a CO instruction permit. As long as you are at least 18 years of age, you are not required to attain this permit for a specific length of time. However, you are required to receive an instruction permit. You must pass the CO driving exam and complete and submit the CO license application.

In the state of Colorado, the driver’s license offices and registration offices are separate. Colorado registration offices do not handle driver’s license transactions. Make sure you are visiting a driver’s licensing office for your application.

Before you visit a registration or driver’s license office, you need to make sure you have the following:

  • Required identification, such as proof of:
    • Identity (U.S. passport, CO ID card, etc.)
    • Age (U.S. birth certificate, Certificate of Citizenship, etc.)
    • Name (U.S. passport, out-of-state driver’s license/ID card, etc.)
    • CO residency (2 documents), such as a utility bill, proof of insurance, etc.) – within 1 year of issue
    • Social security number (If you don’t have a social security number, you must provide a letter from the SSA that indicates you do not have an SSN).
  • Submit your CO learner’s permit
  • Provide proof of registration and a valid CO auto insurance policy for the vehicle you’ll be testing in
  • Pass the Colorado vision exam and driving test
  • Pay the $30.87 fee (the CO DMV only accepts personal checks, cash, and money orders)
  • Have your fingerprint and photo taken

Once you pass your exam, the CO DMV will issue a temporary license that allows you to legally operate a motor vehicle. You will receive your permanent CO driver’s license in the mail to the address you provided on the application within 30 days.

If you are a minor (under 21 years old), your CO license will expire 20 days after your 21st birthday. If you have an adult driver’s license (over the age of 18), the license will expire on your birthday, and the renewal date will depend on the issuance date of the license.

Acceptable Identification Documentation in Colorado

In Colorado, there are different types of acceptable identification documents you can use when you’re applying for a CO driver’s license.

  • Identification documents:
    • Colorado driver’s license
    • Unexpired U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card
    • U.S. birth certificate
  • Proof of CO residency:
    • Credit card statement
    • Insurance policy
    • Phone bill
    • Bank statement
  • Full name verification
    • Adoption documents that contain your legal name as a result of the adoption
    • Marriage certificate
    • A dissolution of marriage document that contains your legal name as a result of the court order

For more information about acceptable identification documents in Colorado, click here.

Obtaining a Colorado Driver’s License Under the Age of 18

The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (CO DMV) handles the issuance of driver’s licenses for first-time drivers. Colorado has a Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program that enforces specific rules and requirements for drivers who are younger than 18 years old. To start the CO licensing process, you may be required to attend a driver’s education course depending on your age.

New Colorado Drivers Under the Age of 18

As a new resident of Colorado with an out-of-state driver’s license, and at least 16 years of age, the CO DMV will not require you to complete the CO DMV written test or road test. However, you may be required to complete these tests if there is a concern about your physical condition to safely operate a motor vehicle or your vision.

To successfully transfer your Colorado driver’s license, you need to visit your local CO DMV office and:

  • Surrender your valid out-of-state driver’s license
  • Show proof of your CO residency (2 documents dated within 1 year are required)
  • Provide proof of your lawful presence in the U.S.
  • Pay the $30.87 Colorado driver’s license fee

You are required to have a parent or guardian sign an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (Form DR 2460) in the presence of a CO DMV employee or notary.

Transferring Your Out-of-State Learner’s Permit

If you are younger than the age of 16 and have attained your out-of-state learner’s permit for at least 1 year, you are eligible to complete the test to obtain your CO driver’s license.

If you fail the exam, the Colorado DMV will issue your CO learner’s permit and give you credit for the time you held your original permit. You are required to complete a Drive Time Log Sheet (Form DR-2324).

The Colorado Graduated Driver’s Licensing Program

In the state of Colorado, the Graduated Driver’s Licensing (GDL) program is designed to help you learn how to operate a motor vehicle safely by teaching you essential driving skills. These skills will ensure driver safety and reduce traffic accidents.

If you are between 15 and 21 years old, you must complete different requirements before you receive your full CO driver’s license. You must follow specific restrictions and complete a CO Driver’s Ed course within 6 months of applying for your instruction permit.

Colorado Age Requirements

Let’s take a look at the age requirements in the state of Colorado to receive your driver’s permit and license.

  • 15 years old to 15 ½ years old: Eligible for a driver’s education permit
  • 15 ½ years old to 16 years old: Eligible for a driver’s awareness permit
  • 16 years old to 21 years old: Eligible for a minor learner’s permit
  • 16 years old: Eligible for a driver’s license (with the completion of the required permit holding time of 12 months)

When you’re ready to apply for your Colorado driver’s permit, you need to schedule an appointment with your local CO DMV and:

  • Provide proof of your:
    • Identity, which can include your:
      • Name and birth date
      • Social security number
    • Proof of CO residency (2 documents dated within 1 year are required)
  • Submit a:
    • Completed Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (Form DR-2460)
    • Driver’s Ed completion certificate (if applicable)
  • Pass the DMV written test and vision exam
  • Pay the $18.52 CO learner’s permit fee

Your Colorado learner’s permit will be valid for 3 years.

Behind-the-Wheel Practice and Driving Restrictions

Once you earn your learner’s permit, you can start practicing driving. However, you are required to follow these learner’s permit driving restrictions:

  • No passengers EXCEPT for a driving instructor, parent, guardian, or licensed adult who is older than 21 years old
  • You and all passengers are required to wear seat belts
  • You are not allowed to use a cell phone at any time while driving, including texting

Before receiving your Colorado full unrestricted driver’s license, you must complete:

  • 6 hours of driving with a driving instructor (if you are younger than 16 ½ years old)
    • If you don’t have an approved driving school within 30 miles of your residence, you are allowed to complete 20 hours of driving practice with an approved driving supervisor instead.
  • 50 hours of driving practice, including 10 hours of night driving

Getting Your Full Colorado Driver’s License

You are eligible to apply for your CO provisional license once you:

  • Have attained your instruction permit for a minimum of 12 months
  • Turn 16 years old
  • Completed 6 hours of behind-the-wheel practice with a driving instructor (if you’re under 16 ½ years old when you apply)
  • Have logged 50 hours of practice driving (including 10 hours of night driving)

To apply for your provisional license, you must schedule an appointment with your local Colorado DMV office and:

  • Submit a completed Drive Time Log Sheet (Form DR-2324). Your log sheet must show 50 hours of driving experience with 10 of the driving hours being performed at night).
  • Submit proof of formal behind-the-wheel training with a driving instructor OR 20 hours of driving practice with an approved driving supervisor (if a driving school is not available within 30 miles of your home)
  • Provide proof of your:
    • Social security number
    • Colorado residency (requires 2 documents dated within 1 year)
  • Pass the CO DMV road test
  • Pay the $30.87 licensing fee

Colorado Driving Restrictions

If you are under 18 years old, you are required to follow these restrictions even when you have your full Colorado driver’s license:

  • You can’t operate a motor vehicle with a passenger who is under 21 years old for the first 6 months
  • After you’ve attained your CO license for 6 months, you are not allowed to drive with more than 1 passenger under 21 years old in your vehicle (this restriction is lifted once you’ve held your driver’s license for 1 year)
  • You are not allowed to operate a motor vehicle between 12 AM and 5 AM UNLESS you’ve attained your CO driver’s license for 1 year, UNLESS:
    • Your parent or legal guardian is with you
    • There is a licensed adult (at least 21 years old) with you who has attained a valid driver’s license for at least 1 year.
    • You have a signed statement from your school or employer disclosing why you must drive during these hours
    • It is an emergency
  • The only exceptions to these rules are if:
    • Your parent or guardian is also in the vehicle
    • There is a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old in the car who has attained their driver’s license for at least 1 year
    • It’s a medical emergency
    • All passengers are members of your immediate family (they must all be wearing their seatbelts)

Getting Your Driver’s License as a New Resident of Colorado

As a new resident of Colorado, you have 30 days after establishing residency in this state to obtain a CO driver’s license, and 90 days to register your vehicle.

The state of Colorado defines you as a resident if you’ve been in the state for a continuous 90 days or gained employment in the state.

You can transfer your valid out-of-state license by visiting your local driver’s license office and:

  • Surrender your current out-of-state driver’s license
  • Provide proof of your CO residency (such as a utility bill, or pay stub) – 2 documents are required, and they must be dated within 1 year.
  • Proof of lawful presence in the U.S. (such as a birth certificate or immigration document)
  • Proof of your social security number (if you don’t have an SSN, you must provide a letter of ineligibility from the SSA)
  • Pay the $30.87 fee (the CO DMV accepts personal checks, money orders, and cash)
  • Pass the vision exam
  • Have your fingerprint and photo taken
  • Provide your signature

Once you’ve completed these steps, the CO DMV will issue a temporary CO driver’s license. Your permanent driver’s license will be mailed to the address you provided on the application within 30 days. If you are a minor (under 21 years old), your license will expire 20 days after your 21st birthday. Adult licenses expire on the driver’s birthday, and the renewal date depends on the issuance date.

The Colorado Written Exam and Road Test

Taking the Colorado Written Exam

The CO written exam consists of 25 questions, 20 questions of which you must answer correctly to pass the exam with a minimum passing score of 80%. You must be at least 15 years old to take the CO written exam.

Taking the Colorado Road Test

The Colorado road test determines your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. You will be tested on how well you adhere to the traffic laws of Colorado and how well you can maneuver a motor vehicle, such as turning, parking, and other basic vehicle operations.

Married, Divorced, or Name Change?

You may be asked to provide name change documentation in the state of Colorado if you’re applying for a new CO driver’s license or identification card. Keep in mind that you may be required to submit one or multiple name change documents, such as a marriage license, to be issued a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card in your true full name.

If the name on your identification document is different from the name you provided on your application, you must submit a document that establishes your true full name. Examples of documents that establish your true full name can include the following:

  • A marriage certificate
  • Adoption documentation that contains legal names as a result of the adoption
  • A name change document that contains the legal name of both before and after the name change
  • A certificate, declaration, or registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
  • A dissolution of marriage/domestic partnership document that contains the legal name as a result of the court action

Does the REAL ID Act Impact Residents of Colorado?

In 2005, Congress passed the REAL ID ACT. This Act places a certain level of security guidelines for all identification that is issued by the state of Colorado and prohibits the federal government from accepting forms of identification from states that don’t meet these requirements for official purposes, such as:

  • Boarding a federally regulated plane (even when you’re traveling domestically)
  • Federally regulated boarding aircraft
  • Entering nuclear power plants

Is Obtaining a REAL ID Mandatory in Colorado?

No. In the state of Colorado, you are not required to obtain a REAL ID. However, if you plan on doing any of the actions listed above, you must have valid documentation to meet the requirements of TSA checkpoints at airport terminals nationwide and visit secure federal buildings or military installations at any time.

You are not required to obtain a REAL ID-compliant Colorado driver’s license or identification card to perform any of the following:

  • Operate a motor vehicle
  • Enter a federal facility that does not require ID (such as a post office)
  • Vote
  • Apply for or receive federal benefits (Social Security Administration (SSA), Veteran’s Affairs, etc.)
  • Visit a hospital or receive life-saving services

How Do You Prepare for a REAL ID Card?

In Colorado, when you renew your CO driver’s license or ID card in person, you will be required to obtain federally compliant identification. However, if you have not renewed your CO driver’s license or identification card, you need to submit specific documentation.

To receive a REAL ID, you must visit your local CO DMV branch and present:

  • Proof of identity, which can include:
    • U.S. birth certificate
    • U.S. passport
    • CO driver’s license or ID
    • Valid military ID
  • Proof of social security, which can include:
    • Social security card
    • W-2 or 1099 tax form
    • Paystub that contains your full name and social security number (SSN)
  • 2 proof of Colorado residency, which can include:
    • Bank statement
    • A printed bill from a:
      • Credit card company
      • Utility company
      • Hospital
  • Proof of name change (if applicable), which can include:
    • Marriage certificate or divorce decree
    • Adoption document
    • Court-issued name change document
  • Payment for all applicable fees

You can click here for a complete list of accepted documents in the state of Colorado.

Colorado REAL ID Fees

The REAL ID fees in the state of Colorado are as follows:

  • Driver’s license: $30.87
  • ID card (under 60 years old): $12.67
  • ID card (over 60 years old): Free
  • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): $17.08

Applying for a Commercial Driver’s License in Colorado

Driving a semi-truck, bus, or other commercial vehicle is a great way to earn money and make a living. If you are interested in driving a commercial vehicle, you must obtain your commercial driver’s license (CDL). Obtaining a CDL requires more exams, tests, and qualifications than a standard Colorado driver’s license.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the process nationally, but in the state of Colorado, the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) also dictates aspects of commercial driver’s licensing.

Important Federal Training Requirements (Updated)

Per new federal entry-level driver’s training requirements effective February 7, 2022, the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles now mandates new CDL applicants complete an entry-level driver training course. This course must be completed through an authorized provider. Applicants must complete this training BEFORE applying for their first commercial driver’s license, upgrading their existing CDL class, or applying for a HAZMAT, school bus, or passenger endorsement.

Who Can Get a Colorado CDL?

To apply for a CO CDL, you must be at least 18 years old and already attain a valid CO or out-of-state driver’s license. Commercial vehicle drivers who are under 21 years old may ONLY drive within the state of Colorado (intrastate) where the CDL was issued. If you have a CDL from a different state that is current or has expired for less than 1 year, you may transfer it to the state of Colorado without having to retake the exams. However, you must retest with the CO DMV if you want to transfer your:

  • Hazmat endorsement
  • Commercial learner’s permit (CLP)
  • School bus endorsement

Colorado Commercial Learner’s Permit

Before you will be eligible to obtain your CDL, you must first receive your Colorado commercial learner’s permit (CLP).

Although the state of Colorado does not require you to complete a CDL driver’s education course, it’s a good idea to complete this course to help with your knowledge and skills test, which you will be required to take.

Once you’re ready to take your exams to receive your CLP, you must schedule an appointment with your local CO DMV office and bring:

  • Your valid driver’s license
  • Proof of your social security number (SSN), which can include:
    • A social security card
    • W-2 or 1099 forms
    • Paystubs that include your name and SSN
  • 2 documents that prove your CO residency. The documents you submit must:
    • Include your name
    • Have your full residential address
    • Be dated within 1 year of the date of your CLP application
  • Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form 649-F) that proves your physical fitness
  • Payment of $18.52 for the commercial learner’s permit fee

You will also need to agree to submit a review of your driving record. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires the past 10 years of your driving record in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Once you pass the written exams for the type of CDL you’re applying for, you will be issued a CLP. Congratulations!

Colorado CLP Requirements

Your Colorado CLP will be valid for 180 days. However, you will be eligible to apply for your CDL after you attain your CLP for 14 days. While driving with your Colorado CLP, you will ONLY be allowed to practice on a public road with a CDL holder in the vehicle with you. You can take advantage of the commercial driver’s training program to help you prepare for the road test you will be required to complete to receive your full, official Colorado CDL.

Getting a Colorado Commercial Driver’s License

Once you’re comfortable driving with your CLP, after the required time you must attain your CLP, you can schedule another appointment with your local CO DMV office to receive your commercial driver’s license.

Taking the Road Test

You must pass the driving skills and road test to obtain your full Colorado CDL. Once you’ve passed the skills and road test, you will receive a commercial driver’s skills test completion form. You will have 60 days to take this form to the CO DMV to apply for your CO CDL. You must arrange to complete the test in the same type of vehicle you expect to drive with your CDL.

Applying for Your CDL

To apply for your CDL, you must visit a CO DMV branch and submit:

  • Your commercial learner’s permit (CLP)
  • Proof of your SSN
  • Your Medical Examiner’s Certificate
  • Proof of Truckers Against Trafficking’s 30-minute online course completion
  • The commercial drive skills test completion form (must be dated within the last 60 days)
  • The $17.08 CDL fee

Your CDL is valid for 4 years. After 4 years, you must renew your CDL.

Medical CDL Exams in CO

The FMCSA requires every CDL applicant to receive a Medical Examiner’s Certificate before receiving their CDL. To complete your Medical Examiner’s Certificate, you must have a qualified physician help you complete the Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver’s Fitness Determination (Form 649-F). You must also declare your fitness to the CO DMV through a process called self-certification.

Once you are medically approved to apply for your CDL, you will be issued your Medical Examiner’s Certificate. You must keep this certificate on you at all times when you’re operating a commercial vehicle. You must update the certificate every 24 months.

Submit Your Medical Examiner’s Certificate

You have different options for submitting your medical examiner’s certificate. You can submit your certificate by:

  • Using the DMV web service (click here)
  • Scanning your certificate and emailing it to the address listed on the DMV website
  • Faxing your certificate to (303) 205-5709
  • Visiting any licensing office
  • Mailing your certificate to:

Colorado Department of Revenue
Attn: CDL Unit
P.O. Box 173350
Denver, CO 80217

Colorado CDL Classifications

CDLs are classified by the FMCSA based on the type of vehicles they allow the holder to drive. There are three classes of commercial driver’s licenses:

  • Class A (CDL) – allows holders to operate multiple vehicles that exceed a certain weight, such as a tractor-trailer.
  • Class B (CDL) – permits holders to drive a single vehicle over a certain weight, such as a box truck
  • Class C (CDL) – covers vehicles that exceed a certain weight that isn’t covered by Class A or Class B CDLs.

You must take slightly different tests with the CO DMV depending on which class of CDL for which you’re applying.

CDL Class Testing Requirements

The following written tests are required to obtain each type of commercial driver’s license in Colorado:

  • Class A CDL:
    • General knowledge test
    • Combination test
    • Air brakes test (if applicable)
  • Class B CDL:
    • General knowledge test
    • Air brakes test (if applicable)
  • Class C CDL:
    • General knowledge test
    • Passenger endorsement test (if applicable)
    • Hazardous materials endorsement test (if applicable)

The skills test is required by the FMCSA for EVERY TYPE of CDL classification.

Endorsements and Restrictions

An endorsement is an additional certification that can be applied to your CO CDL. Endorsements will allow you to operate a wider variety of vehicles, including:

  • HAZMAT vehicles
  • Tank vehicles
  • Double or triple trailers
  • Large passenger vehicles (such as buses)

Be advised that you must complete additional tests to earn an endorsement. A restriction may be applied to your CDL that will prevent you from operating certain vehicles, such as vehicles with full air brakes and manual transmission vehicles.

Restrictions can occur if you take the CDL skills test in a different vehicle type than your class allows, or if you fail a portion of the vision exam. It may be possible to have a restriction removed, with additional testing or paperwork.

Colorado Commercial Driver’s License Fees

The Colorado DMV currently charges the following fees for CDL-related products and processing:

  • Commercial driver’s license: $17.08
  • Commercial instruction permit: $18.52
  • Duplicate CDL: $9 (Additional duplicates are $16)
  • Duplicate CLP: $18.52 (Additional duplicates are $16)
  • Knowledge test retest: $11.15

You can pay the fees using cash, credit card, or check. If you are paying by check, make sure the check is payable to the Colorado Department of Revenue. If you are paying the applicable fees using a credit card, you can pay using VISA, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover Card.

Federal Self-Certification Requirements

You must self-certify your type of vehicle operating with the CO DMV. You must self-certify one of the following categories:

  • Non-excepted interstate
  • Excepted interstate
  • Non-excepted intrastate
  • Excepted intrastate

Applying for a Colorado Motorcycle License

When you’re applying for a Colorado motorcycle license, there are different steps you need to take and forms you must complete.

New Residents of Colorado

As a new resident of Colorado, you must trade in your out-of-state motorcycle permit or license for a Colorado motorcycle permit.

Transferring an Out-of-State Permit

If you currently attain a motorcycle permit, you need to visit your local Colorado DMV office with the following:

  • Your out-of-state permit. You must surrender this permit to the CO DMV.
  • If you are under 18 years old, you must submit an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (Form DR-2460). This affidavit must be signed by your parent or guardian.
  • Provide primary identification, proof of lawful presence, and your social security number
  • Provide proof of your new CO residency
  • Payment to cover the $18.52 permit fee (or $30.87 license fee and $2 motorcycle endorsement fee if you pass a road test). You can pay this fee with cash or check ONLY. Colorado driver’s license offices DO NOT accept credit or debit cards.

If you are a minor and attain an out-of-state motorcycle permit, you may be allowed to take the Colorado tests to receive your motorcycle endorsement without having to obtain a CO permit. If this option is available to you and you do not pass the test, you will be given a CO motorcycle permit and must complete the standard CO graduated licensing process.

Transferring an Out-of-State Motorcycle License

To transfer your motorcycle driver’s license, you must follow the same steps listed above for transferring a permit, including the $30.87 payment for the license fee and the $2 motorcycle endorsement.

Obtaining a Colorado Motorcycle Permit

A motorcycle permit is recommended for all Colorado motorcyclists and required for all applicants who are under 18 years old. To obtain your motorcycle permit, you need to go to your local CO DMV office and:

  • Submit proof of identity, age, and residency
  • Pass the written motorcycle test
  • Pay the $18.52 permit fee

There are additional requirements for applicants who are under 18 years old:

  • You must submit an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (Form DR-2460) that is signed by your parent or guardian.
  • Applicants who are between 15 and 16 years old must also complete the Motorcycle Operator Safety Training (MOST) program and provide proof of completion to the CO DMV.
  • You must attain your motorcycle permit for at least 12 months before you will be eligible to obtain a motorcycle endorsement

Colorado Motorcycle Permit Driving Restrictions (Under 18 Years Old)

There are driving restrictions for motorcycle drivers who are under 18 years old. The motorcycle driving restrictions in Colorado are as follows:

  • You may only ride a motorcycle under the supervision of an adult who is at least 21 years old and who also has a Colorado motorcycle-endorsed driver’s license.
  • If the adult is not your MOST program instructor or your legal parent or guardian, they must have your parent or guardian’s permission
  • If you are under 16 years old, you may ONLY operate a motorcycle under the direct supervision of your MSF motorcycle instructor.

The Colorado Class “M” Motorcycle Endorsement

In the state of Colorado, you must be at least 16 years old before you can add the “M” endorsement to your CO driver’s license. If you are under 18 years of age, you must also have attained a motorcycle instruction permit for 12 months.

You can study to Colorado Motorcycle Operator Handbook (found here) and complete a practice test before heading to the DMV. To apply for your motorcycle endorsement, you must visit your local CO DMV and:

  • Pass the written exam (if you didn’t get a motorcycle permit) and the vision test. If you don’t already have a CO driver’s license, you must pass the basic written test requirements and provide proof of identity.
  • Pass the on-cycle driving test, which you can complete at a CO DMV location, or beforehand with a certified third-party tester. You must take your receipt to the CO DMV for your written exam. If you are completing your test at a CO DMV, you can schedule an appointment online.
  • Pay the $30.87 fee for a new license and $2 for the “M” endorsement.

With a Class “M” endorsement, you are allowed to ride both a standard motorcycle and a motorcycle with 3 wheels.

Colorado Class “3” Motorcycle Endorsement

Motorcycles that have 3 wheels, also known as trikes, are considered a separate class of motorcycles in the state of Colorado. With a Class “3” endorsement, you may ONLY ride a trike, not a standard motorcycle. A Class “M” endorsement allows you to ride a trike or a standard motorcycle.

The process and fees that are required to obtain a permit and/or license for a Class “3” endorsement are the same as they are for Class M. The Motorcycle Safety Course that allows you to skip the on-bike and written tests are replaced by a Sidecar/Trike Education Program (S/TEP).

Colorado DMV Locations

Hooray! You now know everything you need to know to receive your Colorado driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, and motorcycle license. Check out these Colorado DMV locations to find one near you.

Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles – Lakewood Branch
3265 S Wadsworth Blvd
Lakewood, CO 80227
(303) 205-5600
Monday – Friday (7 AM – 5 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)

Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles – Arvada Branch
6510 Wadsworth Blvd
Unit 320
Arvada, CO 80003
(303) 271-8100
Monday – Friday (7:30 AM – 5:30 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)

Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles – Highlands Ranch Branch
2223 W Wildcat Reserve Pkwy
Unit G1
Highland Ranch, CO 801299
(303) 660-7440
Monday – Friday (8 AM – 5 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)

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