Skip Navigation

Driving

You must apply for a Colorado state driver's license if you intend to operate a motor vehicle in Colorado. You may apply for a driver's license at the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, where you will have to pass a written exam on state driving laws as well as an eye exam and a road test. For more information about applying for a driver's license, visit the DMV website.

Applying for a Driver's License

Applications for a Colorado state driver's license cost $21.00. The application fee may be paid with cash, personal check, or money order in the exact amount only. Credit and debit cards may not be used. Before applying for a driver's license, you should review Colorado state driving laws in the Colorado Driver Handbook. When you are ready to apply for a license, you will need to take the following documents to the DMV office:

  • Original I-20 or DS-2019 - current and past copies
  • Passport
  • I-94 Arrival Departure card

If you are in J-1 status and your program sponsor is not a Colorado school or employer, you will need an original letter from your sponsor listing a Colorado school or employer as the appropriate designee.

Social Security Number

Colorado state law requires applicants for a driver's license to present a Social Security Number to the DMV. If you do not have a Social Security Number, you must visit a Social Security Administration office and request a letter of denial for your application for a Social Security Number before going to the DMV. Photocopies of documents will not be accepted.

Testing

You do not need an appointment to apply for a driver's license or to take the written exam, but you must make an appointment in advance for the road test portion of the application. You may make an appointment by telephone or in person. If you complete a private driver's education course, the written and road test portions of the application may be waived. Many automobile insurance companies offer lower rates for customers who have completed a driver's education course.

DMV Locations

There are two DMV locations near the DU campus. Both office offer renewal and replacement of driver's licenses, as well as processing of initial applications for a driver's license.

Name Telephone Location Hours
Athmar/Denver 303-937-9507 1865 W. Mississippi Ave. #C M - F, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Littleton 303-795-5954 311 E. County Line Road M - F, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Colorado State ID Card

If you decide not to apply for a driver's license while in the United States you may apply for a Colorado State ID card. Please review the information in our Colorado State ID handout.