More than 1 year expired
Pass the written knowledge and driving-skills tests; use the new-application/permit process as directed by DMV.
When does retesting apply?
| Time expired | Expiration-based requirements |
|---|---|
| Before the testing cutoff | No automatic knowledge or road retest under this lapse rule. Follow the notice and other renewal conditions, including any vision screening. |
| More than 1 year expired | knowledge test, road test. Restart through the license-application process. |
Pass the written exam, obtain the instruction permit, and complete the driving-skills test before purchasing the license.
Your next steps if retesting applies
Use the tests in the table for your lapse length. The checklist below covers the longer-lapse pathway; your personalized checklist keeps only the tests triggered by your date or notice.
Start a new license application
Pass the written exam, obtain the instruction permit, and complete the driving-skills test before purchasing the license. Colorado: additional agency guidance ↗
Prepare your documents and application
Use the Colorado document list for your credential. Have your existing license and renewal notice available; check identity, residency, lawful-presence, name-change, and REAL ID requirements before your visit. Colorado: additional agency guidance ↗
Prepare for the knowledge test
Study the official Colorado driver’s manual and the agency’s testing instructions. Review road signs and driving rules, then arrange the required exam. Check accepted course or exam waivers before booking. Colorado: additional agency guidance ↗
Arrange and pass the road test
Follow the agency’s permit, knowledge-test, education, and practice prerequisites. Check vehicle, insurance, registration, accompanying-driver, and appointment requirements before test day. Colorado: additional agency guidance ↗
Complete the application and pay the agency fees
Use the agency’s current fee schedule for your license, any required tests, and applicable late fees. Complete any photograph or remaining screening requirement and keep the receipt or temporary credential the agency provides. Colorado: additional agency guidance ↗
Preparing for a knowledge test
Start with the official driver’s manual and exam resources linked by Colorado DMV. Review road signs and driving rules. Optional practice helps you study; complete your exam, road test, and application through the official licensing process.
Common questions
Does being below the cutoff mean I can renew online?
No. The expiration testing cutoff and online-renewal eligibility are separate. Your age, driving record, license type, prior renewal method, or notice may require an office visit.
What if my notice asks for additional tests?
Include both the expiration date and every notice instruction in your checklist. A renewal reminder does not erase a separate expiration-based testing requirement.
What if I do not know the exact date?
Use an approximate range in the checker. A range entirely on one side of a cutoff can still give a clear answer. If it crosses a cutoff, find the exact date on your license. Leap-day and month-end anniversaries may need the agency to confirm the precise cutoff day.
Can I drive while arranging renewal?
A renewal or testing window is separate from permission to drive. Check the agency’s validity, grace-period, or extension rules before driving.
Who this guide covers
Adults with a standard noncommercial Colorado passenger-car license, renewing in the same jurisdiction. Existing REAL ID licenses are included. Another valid license, an approved test waiver, a special extension, a suspension, or an individual review can change this pathway. Transfers, learner or provisional permits, commercial, motorcycle-only, limited-duration, and driver-privilege credentials use separate instructions.
Sources for this guide
Checked 2026-09-12. Read the licensing instructions and legal sources behind the guidance.