Renewing a driver’s license is an important responsibility for Colorado’s senior drivers. The state has specific requirements and processes tailored to older adults, designed to ensure both safety and convenience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what seniors in Colorado should know about renewing their driver’s license in 2025.
Renewal Frequency and Eligibility
- Colorado requires all drivers aged 21 and older—including seniors over 80—to renew their driver’s license every five years.
- You may renew your license at any time before it expires; waiting until after expiration can lead to additional requirements, such as retaking exams if your license has been expired for more than a year.
Renewal Methods: Online, Mail, and In-Person
Online Renewal
- Seniors can renew online at myDMV.Colorado.gov or via the myColorado app.
- If you are between 21 and 79, you must attest that you have had an eye exam within the past year. No supporting documentation is required for this self-attestation.
- If you are 80 or older, you must upload a signed statement (form DR 2498) from an optometrist or ophthalmologist confirming an eye exam within the previous six months and providing the results.
- Your application will be reviewed by DMV staff before approval. If there are issues—such as a new corrective lens requirement—you may be asked to renew in person.
Mail Renewal
- Eligible seniors may receive a mail-in renewal form. You can only renew by mail every other renewal period.
- If you are over 80, you must include the signed vision statement from your eye doctor.
In-Person Renewal
- All seniors can choose to renew in person at a DMV office. You must bring your current (or recently expired) license, proof of identity, proof of Colorado residency, and your Social Security number.
- A vision screening is required at the DMV for all in-person renewals.
- You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than a year, if you need to change your name, or if you have already renewed online twice in a row.
Vision Requirements
- Vision assessments are central to senior license renewals.
- Ages 21–79: Must confirm an eye exam within the last year if renewing online or by mail.
- Age 80 and above: Must submit a signed statement from an optometrist or ophthalmologist confirming an eye exam within the last six months, regardless of renewal method.
- In-person renewals always require a vision screening at the DMV.
Additional Testing and Restrictions
- Colorado does not require seniors to retake the written or road test solely due to age.
- However, the DMV can require additional testing if there is evidence of driver impairment, such as a report from a doctor, law enforcement, or a concerned family member.
- If a re-examination is required, you will be notified by mail and must complete the tests within 20 days.
- Based on vision or driving test results, the DMV may place restrictions on your license, such as limiting night driving.
Fees and Processing
- The standard renewal fee is $26.
- Licenses renewed online or by mail may take several weeks to arrive; in-person renewals typically provide a temporary license until the new one is mailed.
Tips for a Smooth Renewal
- Schedule appointments for in-person renewals to minimize wait times.
- Ensure all documentation, including vision reports for those over 80, is complete and up to date.
- If you have concerns about a loved one’s driving ability, you can request a re-examination through the DMV.
Renewal Options for Seniors
| Age Group | Online Renewal | Mail Renewal | In-Person Renewal | Vision Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21–79 | Yes | Yes* | Yes | Eye exam within 1 year (attest) |
| 80+ | Yes** | Yes** | Yes | Eye exam within 6 months (form) |
*Mail renewal available every other period
**Requires optometrist/ophthalmologist statement
Staying informed about renewal requirements helps Colorado seniors maintain their driving independence while ensuring road safety for everyone.
Sources
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/colorado-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
- https://leg.colorado.gov/content/driver-license-renewal
- https://dmv.colorado.gov/renewals
- https://anshordriving.com/blog/what-do-you-need-for-a-driver-license-renewal-in-colorado/
- https://donaldsonlaw.com/elderly-drivers/
