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Commercial Driver (CDL) License in Colorado

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Commercial Driver (CDL) license in CO. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$250

Processing Time

2-4 Weeks

Exam Required

CDL Knowledge & Skills Test

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Commercial Driver (CDL) license in Colorado.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Commercial Driver (CDL) training program in Colorado.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your CO application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the CDL Knowledge & Skills Test.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Colorado licensing board and pay the $250 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 2-4 weeks in CO. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

To obtain your Commercial Driver (CDL) license in Colorado, you must first complete the state-mandated pre-licensing education requirements. Colorado requires all applicants to pass the CDL Knowledge & Skills Test before submitting their application to the state licensing board. The application process in CO is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail and documentation.

Requirements

Before applying for a Commercial Driver (CDL) license in Colorado, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. CO requires candidates to have completed the necessary educational coursework and accumulated the required training hours. All applicants must pass a comprehensive background check and provide proof of identity. Successfully passing the CDL Knowledge & Skills Test is a non-negotiable requirement in Colorado.

Fees & Costs

The cost of becoming a licensed Commercial Driver (CDL) in Colorado starts at $250 for the application fee. CO requires this fee to be paid at the time of application submission. Factor in additional expenses such as exam fees, background check costs, and any required continuing education. Late renewal penalties in Colorado can add up to $75 to your costs.

License Fee Calculator — Commercial Driver (CDL) in Colorado

Base License Fee$250
Estimated Total$250

Renewal Process

License renewal for Commercial Driver (CDL) professionals in Colorado occurs on a 5-year cycle. CO charges a renewal fee of $150 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in Colorado at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Commercial Driver (CDL) in CO

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Colorado requires renewal every 5 years.

Additional Information

Colorado takes professional licensing seriously, and the Commercial Driver (CDL) field is no exception. The state board in CO regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Commercial Driver (CDL) in Colorado, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The CO licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Commercial Driver (CDL)

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Colorado Commercial Driver (CDL) License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize CO Commercial Driver (CDL) license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize CO Commercial Driver (CDL) license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts CO Commercial Driver (CDL) license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts CO Commercial Driver (CDL) license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Iowa (IA) NoneIA does not recognize CO Commercial Driver (CDL) license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Colorado

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Denver

1560 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

(303) 894-7855

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Springs

30 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

(719) 385-5175

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Aurora

15151 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012

(303) 739-7000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fort Collins

300 LaPorte Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80521

(970) 221-6500

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Boulder

1777 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80302

(303) 441-3388

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Colorado Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Colorado state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.