Colorado residents need to be aware of significant updates to the process for renewing a driver’s license, impacting eligibility, documentation, vision standards, and even fees. Here’s a summary of the critical changes that every driver should know.
Key New Requirements for License Renewal
1. Mandatory Recent Eye Exam
All drivers renewing online (ages 21 and up) must attest to an eye exam within the past year. Those over 80 must upload a signed statement from an optometrist or ophthalmologist confirming an eye exam within the previous six months, along with specific results.
2. Tighter Online Renewal Eligibility
To qualify for online or mail-in renewal, you must:
Be 21 or older
Hold a valid (or less than one year expired) license
Have last renewed in person or not have renewed online twice in a row
Have a photo not older than 10 years on file
Not require a knowledge or driving test
Have no unresolved tickets or bad checks with the DMV
3. In-Person Renewal Requirements
If you do not qualify for online renewal, you must schedule an appointment and bring:
4. Documentation and Legal Presence
5. Senior Drivers
New Fee Schedule (Effective July 1, 2025)
| Renewal Item | Previous Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Driver License | $30.87 | $32.00 |
| Minor DL Fee | $30.87 | $32.00 |
| Learner’s Permit | $18.52 | $19.00 |
Additional administrative processing fees may apply for online renewals.
Other Key Updates & Overlooked Details
30-day Grace Period: You have 30 days after your license expires to renew before new exams are required.
Online Renewals Not Available for Under-21: Drivers under 21 must renew in person after their 21st birthday; emergency online options have ended.
No Temporary Document for Online Renewal: Renewing online will not get you a temporary paper license—your receipt and old/expired card act as proof until the new one arrives.
Photo Updates: You must renew in person if your photo is 10+ years old or if you want a new one.
What Colorado Drivers Should Do Now
Schedule vision tests well before your renewal window
Check your eligibility for online renewal
Gather and digitize documentation (proof of residence, Social Security, etc.)
Prepare for slightly higher fees starting July 1, 2025
For further information or to start the renewal process, visit the official Colorado DMV website or your local DMV branch.
Colorado’s driver license renewal overhaul means extra steps and checking eligibility—especially regarding recent eye exams, in-person visits for some, and increased fees. Drivers should be proactive, know the new requirements, and gather all necessary paperwork to avoid delays.
Sources
[1] https://leg.colorado.gov/content/driver-license-renewal
[2] https://dmv.colorado.gov/renewals
[3] https://zutobi.com/us/co-car/driver-guides/colorado-drivers-license-renewal
[4] https://anshordriving.com/blog/what-do-you-need-for-a-driver-license-renewal-in-colorado/
[5] https://coloradoimmigrant.org/related/undocumented-colorado-residents-can-now-renew-their-drivers-license-online/
