Colorado issues driver licenses to undocumented immigrants through a separate process that does not require proof of legal status

Colorado allows undocumented immigrants to obtain a driver license by proving identity and Colorado residency, without needing to show immigration status or a Social Security number. The state calls this the DACA Unrestricted License program, though the name reflects its original purpose — it now serves any undocumented person who meets the identity and residency requirements. The license looks identical to a standard Colorado driver license and carries the same driving privileges.

The program began in 2014 as a way for DACA recipients (people with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals status) to drive legally. Colorado expanded it in 2020 to include all undocumented immigrants. The license does not indicate immigration status in any way — it is a regular driver license that works at traffic stops, for car rentals, and for age verification at stores.

Key Takeaways

  • Colorado issues driver licenses to undocumented immigrants without requiring proof of legal status or a Social Security number.
  • You must prove your identity with a foreign passport, consular ID, or other documents the Colorado Department of Revenue accepts, plus proof of Colorado residency.
  • The license is a standard Colorado driver license with no marking that indicates immigration status.
  • You must pass the written driving test and vision test, and pay the same fees as any other driver.

What documents you need to bring

Colorado requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of residency. For identity, you can use a foreign passport, a consular ID card issued by your country's embassy or consulate, a Matricula Consular card, or other documents the Colorado Department of Revenue recognizes. The document must show your name, date of birth, and photograph.

For residency, you need to show you have lived in Colorado for at least one month. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail with your name and Colorado address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. You will also need to provide your Colorado address in writing on the process form.

You do not need a Social Security number. If you have one, you can provide it, but it is not required. You also do not need to show immigration documents or prove your immigration status in any way.

The step-by-step process at the Colorado DMV

Start by visiting a Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles office in person — you cannot complete this process online or by mail. Bring your identity document, residency proof, and completed process form (Form DL-43, available on the Colorado DMV website or at the office). You will also need to provide your Colorado address and sign the process.

At the office, you will take a vision test and a written driving test covering Colorado traffic laws. The written test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish. You will also have your photograph taken for the license. If you already hold a valid driver license from another state or country, you may not need to retake the written test — ask the DMV staff when you arrive.

After you pass the tests, you will pay the license fee. As of 2024, a four-year license costs around $30 to $35, though fees can change. You will receive your license on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office's processing time.

Which Colorado DMV offices handle undocumented driver licenses

Not all Colorado DMV offices process licenses for undocumented immigrants. The state has designated certain offices to handle these applications. Before you go, call the Colorado Department of Revenue at 303-205-5600 or visit the DMV website to find the office nearest you that handles this program. Some offices require you to make an appointment in advance, while others accept walk-ins.

Processing times vary by office and by how busy they are. In general, expect to spend one to two hours at the office. If the office is very busy, you may wait longer or be asked to return on another day.

How the license works at traffic stops and other situations

The Colorado driver license issued through this program is a legal, valid license. You can use it to drive anywhere in the United States. At a traffic stop, you show it like any other driver license. The officer will see that it is a valid Colorado license and will not know your immigration status from the license itself.

You can use the license to rent a car, board a domestic flight, or enter a federal building that requires ID. However, you cannot use it to cross the U.S. border into Canada or Mexico — you will need a passport or other travel document for that. Some private businesses may have their own policies about what ID they accept, but the license itself is legal and valid for driving.

Renewal and what happens if your license expires

Colorado driver licenses are valid for four years. You can renew your license by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. If you renew by mail or online, you do not need to retake the written test or vision test — you only need to pay the renewal fee and provide updated information if your address has changed.

If your license expires, you cannot legally drive until you renew it. Driving with an expired license can result in a traffic ticket. Renewal is straightforward and costs less than getting a new license — as of 2024, renewal by mail or online costs around $20 to $25.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting a Colorado driver license affect my immigration case or status?

No. A driver license is a state document for driving purposes only. It does not change your immigration status or create a record that immigration authorities use to find you. However, if you are concerned about privacy, you can speak with an immigration attorney about your specific situation before you explore.

Can I use this license to fly on an airplane?

Yes, you can use it for domestic flights within the United States. You cannot use it to fly internationally or to cross the U.S. border. For international travel, you need a passport or travel document from your country of origin.

What if I fail the written driving test?

You can retake the test. Most DMV offices allow you to retake it the same day or within a few days. You do not need to bring new documents — just return to the office and take the test again. There is usually no extra fee for retaking the test.

Do I need to have a Colorado address to get the license?

Yes. You must prove you have lived in Colorado for at least one month and provide a current Colorado address. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, ask the DMV office about alternative ways to prove residency — some offices accept letters from shelters or other organizations.

Can I renew my license online if I got it through this program?

Yes. Once you have your first license, you can renew it online or by mail for subsequent renewals. You do not need to return to the office in person unless your license was suspended or revoked, or unless you want to update your photograph.