Beginning February 2, 2015, foreign nationals living in the United States without authorization will have a much more difficult time getting a driver’s license in Colorado. Following a vote by the Joint Budget Committee to restrict funding for the Colorado Road and Community Safety Act, the DMV has been forced to downsize their ability to offer driver’s licenses to immigrants who are in the country without authorization.
The DMV’s Denver Central office is now the only location in the State of Colorado that can issue driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. These licenses are valid for three years and are restricted – meaning they do not serve as federal identification for air travel purposes, cannot be used for an I-9, and cannot be used to apply for public benefits. Driver’s licenses for immigrants present in the United States without permission may be obtained by appointment only. However, due to the lack of funding, the DMV office is not currently accepting new appointments. Those seeking to make an appointment for a license are directed to visit www.colorado.gov/dmv on or after Jan. 5, 2016 to schedule an appointment. Foreign nationals interested in learning more about obtaining a driver’s license can visit this website for more information.