Colorado REAL ID

Your driver's license has more clout than you realize. Sure, it's proof that you're legally allowed to drive, but it's also one of the most important forms of identification you can carry with you. However, beginning in 2023, your Colorado driver's license must be upgraded to a REAL-ID-compliant version.

The REAL ID Act

The Real ID Act of 2005 mandated more secure driver's licenses and identification cards. The need for increased security was established following the security breach on September 11, when hijackers obtained U.S. driver's licenses using forged documents. This allowed them to get around security in significant buildings and airports. The Real ID Act defines minimum license requirements to increase security and protect license holders' information. The law specifies which documents the applicant must submit to be granted credentials.

Features

The REAL ID is essentially a driver's license that meets higher security standards than a regular license. As a result, a REAL ID can be used to access certain federal buildings and domestic board flights without requiring a passport. Standard driver's licenses will no longer be considered sufficient identification for boarding domestic flights beginning in October 2021. A REAL ID or passport, on the other hand, will suffice. States can issue REAL IDs, which must include the following information:
  • Full legal name
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Driver's license or ID card number
  • Digital photograph
  • Main residential address
  • Signature

Eligibility

A REAL ID will be required nationwide beginning May 3, 2023, to do the following:
  • Gain access to government facilities, including military bases.
  • Enter a nuclear power plant.
  • Board any commercial aircraft, including those flying domestically.
Unless you work at a federal facility or require access to a local nuclear plant, those requirements are unlikely to impact you significantly. However, if you want to continue using your Colorado license to prove your identity to TSA to board a domestic flight, you'll need to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant license by 2023. It's worth noting that even if you don't get a REAL ID-compliant license by the Spring 2023 deadline, you'll be able to board a flight with other documentation. Check out the TSA's acceptable forms of identification list on their website for more information.

Requirements

The REAL ID Act specifies the primary requirements for obtaining a license. Documentation from all of the following categories is required:
  • Identity and birth date verification (such as a certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, an employment authorization document, a permanent resident card, or a foreign passport with an approved form I-94)
  • Social Security Number Verification (such as a Social Security card, W-2, or paystub with the whole SSN)
  • Address Proof (such as a rental or lease agreement, mortgage bill, utility bill or employment, medical or school document)
  • Proof of Legal Status in the United States (such as a certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, or a permanent resident card)
If you have recently changed your name, you may be required to provide an original or certified copy of your name change documents, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. You must also complete the appropriate driver's license application form, depending on whether you request your driver's license for the first time, renew it, replace it, or change its address. You may also need to meet additional requirements depending on which DMV process you complete.

Process

Although the procedure may differ slightly from state to state, the following are the main steps you must take:

1. DMV Appointment

You must schedule an appointment at your nearest DMV office to begin the process. You may be able to begin the application process online, depending on where you live. States' online portals will allow you to schedule an appointment at the nearest DMV office and submit personal documentation.

2. Bring All Necessary Requirements

You must bring the necessary documents to your DMV appointment to prove that you meet the abovementioned requirements. Proof of identity, Social Security Number, address, legal status, and date of birth are all required. Contact your local DMV if you have any problems or questions about obtaining one or more documents.

3. Fees

The cost varies depending on the state and the procedure you are completing, such as whether you are requesting a new license, a replacement, a renewal, and so on. The fee for obtaining a REAL ID in Colorado is $12.67 for drivers under 60 and free for drivers over 60.