How to Get a Driver’s License in Colorado as an Undocumented Immigrant

Can I Get a Driver’s License in Colorado Without a Social Security Number?

No, you cannot get a driver’s license in Colorado without a valid Social Security number. All applicants for a Colorado driver’s license must present valid proof of identity and proof of social security number. This includes a valid Social Security card or other acceptable form of identification.

How to Apply for a Driver’s License in Colorado Without a Social Security Number?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to apply for a driver’s license in Colorado without a Social Security Number. According to the Colorado Department of Revenue, everyone applying for a driver’s license must provide a valid Social Security Number or an approved alternative identification number.

Does Colorado Have a State ID for Undocumented Immigrants?

No, Colorado does not currently have a state ID for undocumented immigrants.

Does a Driver’s License in Colorado Look Different for Undocumented Immigrants?

No, a driver’s license in Colorado looks the same for both documented and undocumented immigrants. However, undocumented immigrants are required to present certain documents to prove identity and residence to obtain a Colorado driver’s license.

What are the Required Documents to Get a Driver’s License in Colorado?

The documents required to obtain a driver’s license in Colorado include:
-Proof of identity, such as a valid, unexpired US passport, US birth certificate, valid foreign passport with US visa and I-94/I-551 form, or Certificate of Naturalization
-Proof of address (e.g. utility bill, bank statement, mail from a government agency, etc)
-Proof of Social Security number
-Proof of passing the written permit test
-Proof of completion of a state approved driver’s education program (if you are under 18 years old)
-Proof of passing the driving test
-Parental signature or proof of legal guardianship (if you are under 18 years old)
-Proof of payment for the license fee

What Documents do Undocumented Immigrants Need to Get a Driver’s License in Colorado?

Undocumented immigrants in Colorado are eligible to receive a driver’s license with proof of identity, proof of Colorado residency, and proof of Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Acceptable documents include:

1. Mexican Consulate ID Card

2. Foreign passport with a valid Colorado visa

3. Foreign birth certificate

4. Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

5. U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form I-797C

6. SEVIS record number from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

7. School transcript from an accredited school in Colorado with photo ID

8. Colorado state tax returns for the past two years

9. Official letter from a foreign embassy verifying residency in Colorado

10. Letter from a foreign consulate verifying employment in Colorado

11. Proof of enrollment in a Colorado college or university

12. State issued identification card from another state

13. Hospital records or other medical records showing presence in Colorado

14. Bank statements or utility bills showing the address of a residence in Colorado

What is the Difference Between a Real ID and a Standard Driver’s License, and Can Undocumented Immigrants Get a Real ID in Colorado?

A Real ID is a federally-compliant form of driver’s license that is required to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings. It contains additional security features, such as a security stripe and machine-readable technology, compared to a standard driver’s license. Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for a Real ID in Colorado and must present alternative forms of identification.

Can I Get Car Insurance if I Am an Undocumented Immigrant with a Driver’s License in Colorado?

Unfortunately, no. In the state of Colorado, you must be a legal resident of the United States in order to purchase car insurance. This means that if you are an undocumented immigrant, you will not be able to get car insurance.

What are the Risks of Getting a Driver’s License as an Undocumented Immigrant in Colorado?

The biggest risk of getting a driver’s license as an undocumented immigrant in Colorado is deportation. Colorado law requires proof of legal presence in order to obtain a driver’s license; if an undocumented immigrant is found to be in the possession of a Colorado driver’s license, they can be subject to deportation due to the fact that they are in the US illegally. Additionally, if an undocumented immigrant is pulled over by the police or is involved in any other interactions with law enforcement, they could be subject to detention and deportation. Therefore, if an undocumented immigrant needs to drive, it is important that they drive without a license, as the risks could be even more severe than those associated with obtaining a license.

Can I Renew My Driver’s License as an Undocumented Immigrant in Colorado?

No, you cannot renew your driver’s license as an undocumented immigrant in Colorado. According to Colorado Revised Statutes, section 42-2-202, to be eligible for a driver’s license, you must be lawfully present in the United States. As an undocumented immigrant, you do not meet this requirement and therefore cannot renew your driver’s license in Colorado.

What are the Consequences of Driving without a License as an Undocumented Immigrant in Colorado?

In Colorado, driving without a license is considered a criminal offense for any person who operates a motor vehicle on public roads, regardless of immigration status. The consequences for driving without a license as an undocumented immigrant in Colorado include potential jail time, fines, and deportation. If convicted, an undocumented immigrant may be incarcerated in a county jail for up to 180 days and may face fines of up to $1,500. Additionally, depending on the circumstances of the offense, police may choose to contact U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which could lead to deportation proceedings.

What are the Steps to Apply for a Driver’s License in Colorado?

1. Make sure you meet the requirements to get a Colorado driver’s license:
• You must be at least 16 years old
• You must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or other eligible non-citizen
• You must have proof of Colorado residency
• You must have a valid Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

2. Get a copy of the Colorado Driver Handbook, which is available online or at any Colorado Division of Motor Vehicle (DMV) office. Read through it to become familiar with driving rules and regulations in the state.

3. Visit your local DMV office to apply for your license. Bring the following documents:
• Proof of identity, such as a valid passport or birth certificate
• Proof of Social Security number or ITIN
• Proof of Colorado residency
• Vision test results
• $19.50 cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card for the license fee
• If under 16 years old, proof of completion of a driver’s education course and valid learner’s permit

4. Pass the written test. You must get at least 80% correct on the knowledge test to pass. The only way to prepare for the test is to study the handbook and practice with the online practice tests available through the DMV website.

5. Pass the on-road driving test. You can schedule an appointment ahead of time or take a chance and walk in. The test requires you to demonstrate your ability to safely maneuver a vehicle while obeying all traffic laws.

6. Pay the license fee with cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card at the DMV office and receive your license. Congratulations! You are now licensed to drive in Colorado!

Are There Special Instructions to Apply for a Driver’s License in Colorado for Undocumented Immigrants?

Currently, undocumented immigrants are not eligible to apply for a driver’s license in Colorado. However, Colorado has passed legislation to allow undocumented immigrants to apply for driver’s licenses; the law is expected to take effect in August 2021. At this time, there are no special instructions for undocumented immigrants to apply for a driver’s license in Colorado.

What if I Have a Prior Deportation, Criminal History, or a History of Use of Fraudulent Documents?

Unfortunately, it is unlikely that you will be able to adjust your status if you have a prior deportation, criminal history, or a history of use of fraudulent documents. Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be able to apply for a waiver or other form of relief in order to qualify for adjustment of status. However, it is important to consult with an immigration attorney before making any decisions.

What is the Fee to Apply for a Driver’s License in Colorado?

The fee to apply for a driver’s license in Colorado is currently $26.20.

What is the Processing Time to Get a Driver’s License in Colorado?

The processing time for a driver’s license in Colorado varies depending on the type of license you are applying for. Most driver’s license applications typically require a written test, a vision test and a driving test before being issued. The total processing time for all three tests typically takes 10 to 14 days, but can take longer depending on wait times and backlogs.

What to Do in Case of a Denial for a Driver’s License in Colorado for Undocumented Immigrants?

Unfortunately, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for a Colorado driver’s license. If an undocumented immigrant is denied a license, they should seek legal counsel for advice on how to proceed. Additionally, some nonprofit organizations in Colorado may be able to provide counseling and resources for undocumented immigrants.

What are the Frequently Asked Questions and Answers to Get a Driver’s License in Colorado as an Undocumented Immigrant?

Q: Can undocumented immigrants get a driver’s license in Colorado?

A: Yes. On January 1, 2014, Colorado passed legislation to allow undocumented immigrants to obtain Colorado driver’s licenses. All applicants must prove their identity and Colorado residency, and pass the written, vision, and driving tests.

Q: What documents do I need to bring in order to apply for a driver’s license in Colorado?

A: All applicants must provide proof of identity, Colorado residency, and U.S. citizenship or legal presence in the United States. Acceptable documents include a valid passport or consular ID card and proof of address such as utility bills, mortgage or rental agreements, or pay stubs.

Q: Do I need to take a written or driving test?

A: Yes. All applicants must pass a written exam and the vision and driving tests in order to obtain a Colorado driver’s license.

Q: Are there any restrictions on my ability to drive with a Colorado driver’s license?

A: Yes. Undocumented immigrants with a Colorado driver’s license are not allowed to drive outside of Colorado or across state lines. Furthermore, your license will not be valid for any federal identification purposes (e.g., boarding a plane).