Always check the exact language of the rules themselves available on the Department of Revenue’s website. You may find DMV’s specific rules recorded in the Code of Colorado Regulations here.
Special COVID-19 related information: Replacing Social Security cards
You have two options for replacing your Social Security card while Social Security Administration offices remain closed to most in-person visitors.
You may create an account at www.ssa.gov and request a free replacement card. It takes about two weeks to arrive by mail. Please note you must verify your identity in your account by uploading a picture of your valid government-issued ID to create your account, and verify your ID/DL number when requesting the replacement card. If you do not have an ID to show SSA, please see the list here of alternative documents you may provide. If you are not able to order a replacement card online, you may order one by mail. You need to complete form SS-5 and send the form in along with your original proof of identity (ID or other document on the above list) to your local SSA. SSA will process your request and return your original document to you by mail. This process takes approximately two to four weeks.
If you are applying for a Social Security card for the first time or amending your name, you may need to provide additional documentation. Please contact your local Social Security Administration for more information.
Update effective 4/07/2022: SSA will reopen to the public. Appointments are encouraged due to expected long lines. More information available here.
Special Update from DMV 9/1/2021: Social Security Number Documentation
Starting September 1, 2021, DMV is no longer requiring physical proof of a Social Security number for US citizens and legal permanent residents. You must still provide your number verbally, and it must match with Social Security Administration’s records. See official announcement here.
Real ID Act
In 2005 Congress passed the Real ID Act. This law created federal standards that state-issued IDs must meet in order to be used for federal purposes, such as boarding a plane or entering federal buildings. States then had to consider whether they would change their policies and procedures to meet the new heightened federal standards, and if so, how. Colorado’s version of the Real ID Act requires applicants for driver’s licenses and IDs to verify their full legal name, date of birth, identity, and lawful presence in the United States. Applicants must also provide proof of their Social Security number, which will then be verified with the Social Security Administration’s records. More information about the Real ID Act and Colorado’s subsequent legislation and administrative policy changes can be found here.
What documents do I need to get a Colorado ID?
To be issued a Colorado ID or driver’s license, you must prove the following four elements: full legal name, date of birth, identity, and lawful presence in the US. In some cases, a single “standalone” document may prove all four elements. If you do not have one of the acceptable standalone documents, you will have to provide a combination of other documents that satisfy all the required elements. All documents presented to the DMV must be certified originals, certified amended originals or true copies certified by the issuing agency. The DMV will not accept copies, photos of documents, faxes, or digital versions of any documentation.
Standard ID Process for a REAL ID Credential
See the DMV Identification Requirements
For United States citizens and those with permanent lawful immigration status, you must verify your citizenship or status, your identity, and proof of your Colorado residency with documentation. You will also need to provide your Social Security number. You will verbally provide your full Social Security number, and your name and number must match Social Security Administration’s records.
To prove your residency, you need to provide two of the following that include your name, address, and are dated within the last year:
- Utility bill or phone bill
- Lease agreement, mortgage statement, or rental receipt in your name (receipt cannot be handwritten)
- First class mail dated with postmark
- Note: Mail addressed with a label or not postmarked first class mail by USPS will not be accepted.
- Credit card or bank statement
- Insurance policy
- Pay stub
- Vehicle registration or title
- Colorado ID/license with current address
DMV may also accept other proof, with manager discretion. For more information see here.
Please note that DMV cannot accept Post Office Boxes or USPS General Delivery as proof of residency.
Electronic documents may be submitted for proof of residency.
Can I still get an ID or driver’s license if I lack lawful presence or only have temporary legal status?
The Colorado Road and Community Safety Act (CO-RCSA SB251 C.R.S. 42-2-500) authorized the DMV to issue IDs and driver’s licenses to individuals who are unable to demonstrate lawful presence, or only have temporary lawful presence. Once issued, CO-RCSA SB251 (“SB251 cards”) are valid for three years. These IDs are marked with “NOT VALID FOR FEDERAL IDENTIFICATION, VOTING, OR PUBLIC BENEFIT PURPOSES” on the face of the document. As indicated by the marker, 251 cards are not valid for federal identification, proof of immigration status, or documentation of eligibility for voting rights or public benefits. The DMV has very specific requirements for issuance of these IDs. DMV has different procedures for SB251 ID applicants who have temporary lawful status, and for those who are not able to demonstrate lawful status. More information and appointment scheduling is available here.
Please note that Colorado Legal Services, as a recipient of funding from the Legal Services Corporation, may not provide legal assistance for or on behalf of an ineligible alien. There are a few very narrow exceptions, such as for victims of domestic violence. For more information about who is an eligible alien, please call 303-837-1313.
What if my name is different from what is on my birth certificate?
Your full legal name is the name on your birth certificate, unless it has been changed by court order, marriage, divorce, or adoption. To get a name in any name besides the one on your birth certificate, you must present the original name change document. A certified copy of a marriage license or certificate, divorce decree, adoption order, or name change order issued by a court of competent jurisdiction may be used to prove a name change. If you never obtained a legal name change and your names on your supporting documents don’t match, you may need to consider a legal name change. More information on acceptable name change documentation is available here.
Exceptions Processing
If you cannot provide the documents discussed above, you may need to go through Exceptions Processing to get an ID.
What is Exception Processing (“EP”)?
Individuals who cannot provide adequate documentation (as outlined here) may request Exception Processing. Additional documents may be considered in the Exceptions Process that would not be acceptable through the standard DMV process. A more detailed list of acceptable Exceptions Process documents is available here. There is no fee for Exceptions Processing beyond the regular fee for an ID. More information about Exceptions Processing is available here.
Four DMV locations handle Exceptions Processing at the locations where you can apply. If the location closest to you does not handle Exceptions Processing cases on site, then they may have to send your documents to another office for review through the Remote Exceptions Process.
Replacing a lost or stolen Colorado ID
If you have been issued a Colorado ID, it is much easier to replace than to obtain a Colorado ID for the first time. If your residency information has changed, you will need to bring in two proofs of residency for your new address. If everything else is the same, you will need to scan your fingerprint and the DMV will verify your identity. In some cases, DMV may require that you provide your birth certificate or Social Security card to replace your ID.
How much does a Colorado ID cost?
As of July 1, 2020 Colorado IDs are $12.67 and driver licenses are $30.87. If you are a senior over 60, the fee for an ID is waived. For more information about vouchers to help with the cost of your ID, see here.
Other Miscellaneous Information
U.S. Passport Card Frequently Asked Questions
How to find vital records in other states.
This communication is made available by Colorado Legal Services (CLS) as a public service and is issued to inform, not to advise. No person should attempt to interpret or apply any law without the assistance of an attorney. The opinions expressed in this communication are those of the authors and not those of CLS or its funding sources.
Colorado ID Project 