If you’re planning on moving to, from, or within the state of Colorado then you’re going to want to make sure that you know exactly what’s expected of you in terms of DMV paperwork. Like all states, you’ll be required to get your Colorado DMV Change of Address forms in order before you can truly settle in as a resident—including your address on your driver’s license and your vehicle’s registration, if applicable.
It’s good practice to take care of all of your paperwork as early as possible, especially if you’re going to be driving in the state or want to start applying for jobs. And since Colorado requires that you file your change of address paperwork within just 30 days of establishing residency in the state, there really isn’t much time to waste.
Not sure where you should start? That’s where we come in. We’ve put together all of the information that you’ll need to complete your Colorado DMV change of address and vehicle registration forms, so read through the information below and then make your way to an Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles office to get started.
Will you need to get a new driver’s license if moving to Colorado from another state?
How do you get one?
To get a Colorado driver’s license as a formerly out-of-state resident you’ll have to go to a Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles office in person, since unfortunately you can’t do a Colorado DMV change of address online or over the phone (though you are encouraged to start the process online to speed up your visit).
Per the rules in most states, expect that Colorado driver’s licenses for new residents to the state are only available to those who do not have any outstanding suspensions, revocations, or cancellations on their out of state driver’s license and who have not been previously deemed unfit or unsafe to drive by the CO DMV or an outside court.
You will need to bring along the following documentation when you visit the CO DMV:
See the full list of accepted documents here.
Note that if your name on your proof of identity does not match the name on your current driver’s license then you will also have to bring along proof of name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, or a court order for a legal name change.
Is there a fee?
Yes. The fee for a new driver’s license in Colorado is $30.87, though costs may vary in some instances. See a complete breakdown of fees here.
Does a Colorado DMV change of address require a driving test?
No, provided you have a current and valid out-of-state driver’s license. You will have to pass a vision test though.
How long do you have to get a Colorado driver’s license or ID card?
Colorado requires that you get your DMV change of address handled within 30 days of establishing residency in that state. So how do you know if you’re officially a resident? Head to the CO DMV if you plan to:
How long do you have to update your vehicle’s registration?
Colorado requires that you register your vehicle within 90 days of establishing residency.
How do you update your vehicle’s registration as a new resident of Colorado?
You’ll need to head to a Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles office in person. Make sure to bring along the following required documents:
If your vehicle was titled in another state, you’ll also need to bring a completed Verification of Vehicle Identification Number. Find out more about registration requirements here.
What is the registration fee?
The fees for registering a standard non-commercial vehicle in Colorado vary based on county, car model, and car weight, so you’ll need to contact your local CO DMV directly to inquire.
Colorado requires that you update your driver’s license within 30 days with your new address when moving within the state (and no, changing your address with the post office doesn’t cut it).
You have three primary options for updating your address on your Colorado driver’s license:
1. Fill out a Colorado DMV change of address form online. You can do so here. Be sure to have your current Colorado driver’s license number handy, as well as the last four digits of your social security number.
2. Go to a Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles office in person. Find a Colorado driver’s license office near you and fill out a Colorado DMV change of address form in person.
3. By mail. Send your completed change of address form (DR 2285) to Division of Motor Vehicles, Drivers Control Section, Denver, CO 80261-0016. You can also simply fill out the form and drop it off at your nearest Colorado DMV location.
How much does a Colorado change of address cost?
An update to your Colorado address with the DMV is free, but you’ll need to pay a $12 fee if you want a replacement driver’s license with your new address.
What information do you need to provide to update your address on your driver’s license?
To change your address on your Colorado driver’s license or identification card, you will need to provide:
What information do you need to provide to update your vehicle registration?
You will need to provide the same change of address paperwork noted above to update your vehicle’s registration, plus proof of identity and your social security number. You will also have to go to a Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles office in person, since you cannot update your vehicle registration with the state by mail or online.
Will Colorado issue you a new driver’s license if you’re moving within the state?
Not unless you want one.
Do you need to notify the state of Colorado if you’re moving to another state without a registered car?
No. When you receive a driver’s license in your new state of residency Colorado will automatically cancel your CO driver’s license.
Do you need to notify the state of Colorado if you’re moving to another state with your registered vehicle?
Do you need to return your Colorado license plates?
No, you can keep them.
If you have any questions about changing your address on your driver’s license and/or vehicle’s registration when moving to, from, or within the state of Colorado, contact the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles at (303) 205-5600. You are encouraged to have your driver’s license number and license plate number (if applicable) ready when you call.
We can help you out with that! Use Moving.com to quickly and easily search for reputable interstate movers in your area. Because moving out of state can be costly, we recommend reaching out to at least three different interstate moving companies to get quotes so that you can ensure you are getting the best price possible. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate on how much your Colorado move will cost.
Laura Mueller is a professional writer with nearly five years of experience writing about moving. She is particularly interested in topics around organization, home design, and real estate, and definitely has a few tricks up her sleeve after moving eight times in eight years during her 20s. Laura believes that moving should be as stress-free of an experience as possible, and is always working on new tips and shortcuts that she can share with readers on Moving.com.View all posts by Laura Mueller
