The Ultimate Colorado DMV Document Checklist (for a REAL ID)

There's nothing more deflating than spending time waiting at the Colorado DMV only to be told you're missing a key piece of paperwork. A failed trip wastes your time and delays your goal of getting on the road. The absolute best way to ensure a smooth, one-and-done visit is to arrive completely prepared.

This definitive checklist will ensure you walk into the DMV with every document you need, organized and ready. We will focus on the requirements for obtaining a REAL ID, as this is the standard, federally compliant license that all new applicants should aim to get.

What is a REAL ID and Why Do I Need One?

A REAL ID is a driver's license or state ID card that meets the security standards set by the federal REAL ID Act. You can identify it by the star in a black circle located in the upper-right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID or another federally approved document (like a U.S. passport) to board domestic flights and enter secure federal facilities like military bases.

Because it's a federally recognized document, the requirements for getting one are very strict. All documents must be original or certified copies. The DMV will not accept photocopies or expired documents.

The Core Document Categories for a Colorado REAL ID

To get your REAL ID driver's license or instruction permit, you must provide documents that prove your identity, your Social Security number, and your Colorado residency. [1, 4]

1. Proof of Identity and Lawful Presence (Bring ONE)

This is your primary document establishing who you are and your legal right to be in the United States.

Valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card. [4]
Original or certified U.S. birth certificate (from a state or county vital statistics office; not a hospital certificate). [1, 4]
Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). [4]
Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. [4]
Unexpired foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa and I-94 form.
Valid, unexpired Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Card.

You must provide a document that shows your full, correct Social Security number (SSN).

Social Security card (not laminated). [1, 4]
W-2 form. [4]
SSA-1099 form.
Paystub from an employer showing your full name and SSN. [1, 4]
If you are not eligible for an SSN, you must provide an official ineligibility letter from the Social Security Administration.

3. Proof of Colorado Residency (Bring TWO)

You must present two separate documents from two different sources to prove that you live in Colorado. The documents must show your current physical address. P.O. boxes are not acceptable.

Utility bill (gas, electric, water, cell phone, internet) dated within the last year. [1, 4, 10]
Bank statement or credit card statement. [4]
Mortgage statement or residential lease agreement. [4, 10]
Colorado motor vehicle registration or title. [4]
Voter registration card. [4]
Official mail from a federal, state, or local government agency. [4]
First-class mail from a reputable business. [4]
Colorado school documents (transcript or report card). [4]
Insurance policy (home, auto, life, etc.). [10]

Important: Both documents must have your name and address on them. You cannot use two documents from the same company (e.g., your gas bill and your electric bill from Xcel Energy count as one source).

What If Your Name is Different?

If your current legal name does not match the name on your primary identity document (e.g., your birth certificate), you must provide legal proof of the name change. You need to show the complete paper trail linking the names.

Certified marriage certificate(s).
Divorce decree that specifies the name change.
Court-ordered name change document.

If your name has changed multiple times, you must provide the certified document for each change.

Additional Requirement for Minors (Under 18)

Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (Form DR2460): Your parent or legal guardian who will be financially responsible for your driving must sign this form. They must be present with you at the DMV when you apply for your permit.

Final Pre-Appointment Checklist

Before you head to your DMV appointment, organize your folder and run through this final check:

[ ] Pre-Registration Code? (Have you completed the online pre-registration?)
[ ] Proof of Identity: Do you have ONE original or certified document?
[ ] Proof of SSN: Do you have ONE document showing your full SSN?
[ ] Proof of Residency: Do you have TWO different documents with your address?
[ ] Name Change Documents? (If applicable, are they certified copies?)
[ ] Form DR2460? (If you are a minor, is it signed by a parent/guardian?)
[ ] Payment: Do you have an accepted form of payment for the required fees?

Taking 20 minutes to gather and double-check these documents is the best guarantee for a fast, successful, and stress-free experience at the Colorado DMV.