From Foreign Roads to Colorado Highways: A Guide to Exchanging Your Driver's License

Welcome to Colorful Colorado! As you settle into your new life here, one of the most important steps you'll take is getting a Colorado driver's license. While an International Driving Permit can be useful, if you plan to live here for more than 90 days or take a job, you are required to obtain a state license.

This process can seem daunting, but this guide will walk you through every step. We'll clarify who needs to be tested, what documents to bring, and how the process works for new residents from other countries.

The First Step: Understanding Colorado's Requirements

For most new residents with a foreign driver's license, the process involves getting a permit and passing both the written knowledge test and the practical road test. However, Colorado has reciprocal agreements with a few countries that simplify this process.

Reciprocity Agreements: Who is Exempt from Testing?

Colorado has agreements with the following countries that may exempt you from taking the written and driving skills tests:

• Canada
• France
• Germany
• The Republic of South Korea
• Taiwan
• Japan (some conditions apply)

If you hold a valid license from one of these nations, you may be able to simply schedule an appointment and exchange your license. Applicants from Taiwan and Japan have specific documentation requirements they must present from their respective economic and cultural offices in Denver.

For all other international license holders, you will need to successfully pass both the written exam and a drive skills test.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Colorado License

If you're not from a reciprocal country, don't worry. The process is straightforward if you follow these steps.

Step 1: Gather Your Essential Documents

This is the most critical part of the process. The Colorado DMV requires original documents only—photocopies and laminated documents are not accepted.

Primary Identification:

• Valid Foreign Passport: This is your primary form of identification.
• U.S. Immigration Documents: You'll need your I-94 information (printed from the CBP website) and your F-1 or J-1 school documents (I-20 or DS-2019) if applicable.

Proof of Colorado Residency:

• You must provide two documents to prove you live in Colorado. These documents must be dated within the last year and show your name and physical address.
• Accepted documents include: Computer-generated bills (utility, credit card), bank statements, pre-printed pay stubs, or first-class mail from a government agency.

Social Security Number (if applicable):

• If you have one, be prepared to provide your Social Security Number.

Your Foreign Driver's License:

• Bring your current, valid license from your home country.
• Important Translation Requirement: If your license is not in English, you must provide a certified translation. The translation must be typed on the same page as a copy of the original document and include a specific affirmation from the translator, along with their driver's license information. You are responsible for all translation costs.

Wait Period for New Arrivals:

• Please note that it is recommended to wait at least 10 business days after your arrival in the U.S. before visiting the DMV. This allows time for your immigration status to update in the federal SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) system, which the DMV uses for verification.

Step 2: Get Your Instruction Permit

Before you can take the road test, you must first obtain a Colorado instruction permit.

1. Schedule an Appointment: You must make an appointment to visit a driver license office. You can pre-register online to save time.
2. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: This test covers Colorado traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices found in the Colorado Driver Handbook. The test can often be taken online before your appointment.
3. Pass a Vision Screening: Your vision will be tested to ensure you can see well enough to drive safely. Bring any corrective glasses or contacts you need.
4. Pay the Fee: You will need to pay the applicable fee for the instruction permit.
5. Get Fingerprinted and Photographed: This is a standard part of the process.

Step 3: Take the Driving Skills Test

Once you have your instruction permit, you can schedule your road test.

• Scheduling: Driving tests are not conducted at all DMV offices. They are primarily offered by state-approved third-party driving schools. You will need to schedule your test directly with one of these schools.
• The Test: An examiner will ride with you to evaluate your practical driving skills, including turns, lane changes, parking, and obeying traffic signals.

Step 4: Upgrade to Your License

After you successfully pass your driving skills test, you're on the home stretch!

• You can schedule another appointment at the DMV to upgrade your permit to a license, or in many cases, you can upgrade online at mydmv.colorado.gov.
• You will surrender your foreign license and be issued a temporary Colorado license. Your permanent license will be mailed to you within 30 days.

A Note for Undocumented Residents

Colorado law allows all residents, regardless of immigration status, to apply for a "Standard License." This process requires applicants to provide identification from their country of origin (like a passport), proof of Colorado residency, and a tax identification number (ITIN). Recent changes to the law have made this process more accessible. The application steps, including passing the written and driving tests, are the same.

Navigating a new country's administrative processes can be challenging, but by preparing your documents and understanding the steps, obtaining your Colorado driver's license can be a smooth and successful experience. Drive safely and enjoy exploring your new home state!