Quick Answer
Yes — Colorado allows undocumented immigrants and ITIN holders to get a standard driver's license under HB 13-1060 (2013). No SSN or proof of legal status required. To apply:
- Pass the written knowledge test at a Colorado DMV office.
- Bring identity documents (foreign passport or Consular ID + 2 proofs of state residency dated within 60 days).
- Pass the behind-the-wheel driving test.
The license is valid for driving throughout the state but is not accepted as federal ID — not valid for domestic flights or federal buildings.
Can You Get a Driver's License in Colorado Without an SSN?
Yes. Colorado allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under HB 13-1060 (2013). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.
Colorado was among the first wave of states to pass this law in 2013. The license looks identical to a standard CO license but is marked as not valid for federal identification purposes.
License type
Standard driver's license — not valid as federal ID (REAL ID). This license is valid for driving but cannot be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or as a federal form of ID. For air travel you will need your passport.
What Documents Do I Need?
Bring 2 categories of document to your Colorado DMV appointment: proof of identity (a valid foreign passport, national ID, or consular ID) and proof of Colorado residency, which generally requires 2 documents such as a utility bill, bank statement, or lease. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.
- 1Proof of identity — valid foreign passport or foreign national ID card
- 2Proof of Colorado residency — 2 documents required: utility bill, bank statement, lease, pay stub, or government-issued mail
Tip
Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation.
How Do I Apply Step by Step?
- Step 1: Gather your foreign passport and 2 proofs of CO residency
- Step 2: Visit a Colorado DMV office
- Step 3: Complete the application form
- Step 4: Pass the written knowledge test
- Step 5: Pass the vision exam
- Step 6: Pass the driving skills test
- Step 7: Receive your license by mail
What Can I Do With This License?
Once you have your Colorado driver's license or driving permit, you can do 4 main things: drive legally anywhere in Colorado, qualify for car insurance, use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes, and present it as proof of identity to open a bank account. It cannot be used for federal purposes such as boarding a domestic flight.
- Drive legally anywhere in Colorado
- Get car insurance (insurers require a valid license)
- Use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes
- Use it as proof of identity at banks and credit unions — this can help with opening an account
You cannot use this license to:
- Board domestic flights (need a passport or REAL ID)
- Enter federal buildings or military bases
- Prove immigration status or work authorization
Next step: build credit
A driver's license is accepted by many banks as a second form of ID alongside your ITIN — making it easier to open an account. See which banks accept ITIN →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can undocumented immigrants get a driver's license in Colorado?
Yes. Colorado HB 13-1060 (2013) allows undocumented immigrants to get a standard driver's license. You need a valid foreign passport and two proofs of Colorado residency. No SSN or ITIN is required.
Does Colorado accept a matrícula consular for a driver's license?
Colorado generally requires a valid foreign passport as the primary identity document, not a consular ID. Check with the Colorado DMV directly for current accepted document lists as policies can update.
Is a Colorado driver's license for undocumented immigrants a REAL ID?
No. The license issued under HB 13-1060 is not a REAL ID. It cannot be used for federal identification purposes such as domestic air travel. It is valid for driving throughout Colorado.
Can DACA recipients get a standard driver's license in Colorado?
Yes. DACA recipients in Colorado are eligible for a standard, REAL ID-compliant driver's license. A valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and DACA-issued Social Security Number satisfy the DMV's proof of authorized presence requirement. Apply at any DMV office with your EAD, Social Security card, and identity documents.
How long is a Colorado driver's license for undocumented immigrants valid?
The Colorado driver's license issued to undocumented residents under HB 13-1060 is valid for 5 years and can be renewed. Renewal requires the same residency documentation as the initial application. Check with the Colorado DMV for current renewal procedures and fees.
Which Other States Issue Licenses Without an SSN?
Beyond Colorado, 19 states and Washington D.C. currently issue driver's licenses or driving permits to undocumented immigrants without requiring an SSN. Each sets its own document rules, but all accept a foreign passport or consular ID in place of a Social Security Number. Browse the full list by state:
For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →