Colorado Title & Registration Guide
Complete guide to Colorado vehicle titling, registration, fees, taxes, lien laws, and official forms. Maintained by Illinois Title Services.
Department of Revenue — Division of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Services Program
3265 S Wadsworth Boulevard #3A, Lakewood, CO 80227
PO Box 173350, Denver, CO 80217-3350
303.205.5600 • 303.205.5940 TDD
Fee Calculator
Estimate your Colorado title and sales tax costs. State sales tax is 2.9% plus city and county tax (varies by location — see Sales & Use Tax Rates Lookup). Title fee is $7.20. Lien filing fee is $40.00. A $4.00 Clerk Hire fee is assessed on all registration transactions. Colorado counties manage motor vehicle titles and registrations, not the DMV. Boats, OHVs, and snowmobiles are registered through Colorado Parks & Wildlife.
Full purchase price. The fair market value of a trade-in is excluded from the taxable purchase price.
If you already paid sales/use tax to another state on this vehicle, enter that amount here. Colorado will credit it against the tax owed — reducing your total.
Checks Payable To
- •Title & Tax Fees: Colorado Department of Revenue (or County Clerk)
City and county taxes are in addition to the 2.9% state rate shown above. Rates change January 1 and July 1 annually. Use the Colorado Sales & Use Tax Rates Lookup for current combined rates. Specific ownership tax, registration fees, FASTER surcharges, highway fees, and other charges are also due at time of registration but vary by vehicle age, weight, and county.
* Estimate only. Does not include city/county sales tax, specific ownership tax, annual registration base fees, FASTER surcharges, highway fees, plate/material fees, EV road usage fees, emissions fees, or other county-specific charges. There is an online registration fee estimator available on the Colorado DOR website. Contact Illinois Title Services for an exact quote.
Title & Proof of Ownership
All motor vehicles, trailers, and special mobile machinery mounted on a truck or trailer chassis must be titled, unless exempt. OHVs and snowmobiles purchased through or sold to a Colorado dealer must be titled; titling is optional for private party sales. Surplus military vehicles are issued OHV titles. Mopeds, boats, Class B low-speed vehicles, agricultural implements, mobile machinery, self-propelled construction equipment, and industrial machinery not designed primarily for highway use are exempt.
Manufactured Homes
Manufactured homes are titled through the County Clerk and Recorder, unless permanently affixed to real estate. A Certificate of Permanent Location is required when a manufactured home is permanently affixed to land. When a home is removed from the location to which it is permanently affixed, a Certificate of Removal is required with an application for title. The recording fee for manufactured homes is $43.00.
Application for Title
Application for Title and/or Registration (DR 2395) is submitted to the County Motor Vehicle Office in county of residence or online through myDMV. Secure and verifiable identification required. Fee $7.20. Make checks payable to Colorado Department of Revenue; or, if applying at County Motor Vehicle Office, make check payable to County Clerk. Allow 4–6 weeks delivery. Online transactions generally take 21 days. Same day title service is available, except when an out-of-state title is a supporting document.
Dealer for Resale titles are issued over the counter by the Vehicle Services Program or by County Motor Vehicle Offices. Fee $25.00. Companies are allowed one appointment per day and only three dealer titles may be processed; otherwise, dealers may walk-in or drop-off any number of dealer titles.
* Colorado counties manage motor vehicle titles and registrations, not the DMV. Fees and taxes vary from county to county. Low-powered motor scooters and IRP are handled by the DMV.
Electronic Signatures
Accepted on documents required to issue a title, including title transfers, odometer disclosures, and powers of attorney. A secure form cannot be made electronic, but an electronic signature may be applied to a secure form.
Proof of Ownership
New Vehicles
Manufacturer's Statement of Origin.
Used Vehicles
Certificate of Title and bill of sale.
Non-Title Issuing Jurisdiction
Current registration and bill of sale.
Government Surplus Vehicles
U.S. Government Certificate to Obtain Title to a Vehicle (SF97-1).
Foreign Vehicles
Foreign ownership documents plus a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety, Bumper and Theft Prevention Standards Declaration (NHTSA HS-7) and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Entry Form (CBP 7523, CBP 3299, CBP 3311, CBP 7501, CBP 3461). If vehicle is nonconforming, a Bond Release Letter from NHTSA is required. Federal importation laws require a 30-day hold for nonconforming vehicles. Colorado does not allow transfer of foreign vehicles by dealers or agents until title has been obtained in Colorado or another state. English translation required on all documents written in a foreign language. Translation must be notarized or signed under penalty of perjury.
Special Titles
Bonded Title
Vehicle must be titled through the surety bond process when ownership documents are incorrect or not available. Vehicles 25 years old or older with a bill of sale may be exempt upon completion of a certified VIN inspection and an In Lieu Bond (DR 2462, DR 2463, or DR 2908).
Salvage / Nonrepairable
A salvage vehicle is damaged to the extent that the cost of repair exceeds the vehicle's retail fair market value. Owner must apply for salvage title prior to sale or transfer. Fee $7.20 ($8.20 when insurer/salvage pool cannot obtain title within 30 days). A nonrepairable motor vehicle has no resale value except as parts or scrap.
Rebuilt Vehicle
When a salvage vehicle has been made roadworthy, a Rebuilt from Salvage Title Statement of Facts (DR 2424) must be completed. A Certified VIN Inspection (DR 2704) is required. Fee $54.00 for inspection.
Abandoned / Junk
Owners of abandoned vehicles must be notified via certified mail. A vehicle is deemed "junked" upon destruction, dismantling, or when it is no longer a motor vehicle. The title is surrendered and cancelled.
Duplicate / Amended Title
A Duplicate Title/Lien Request and Receipt (DR 2539A) must be completed or a duplicate may be requested online. Fee $8.20; $7.20 for a lien release title. Allow up to six weeks.
Stolen Vehicle
An Unrecovered Theft Title Application (2593) may be used to issue a title in the owner's name in anticipation of the recovery of a stolen vehicle. A letter from the insurer and a copy of the police report are required.
Title Brands
Brands are shown on the upper left-hand side of the face of the Colorado title. Brands issued: Flood, Nonrepairable, Other Jurisdiction, Rebuilt from Salvage, Salvage. Odometer brands are shown next to the odometer reading. Out-of-state titles branded "export only" or "junk" will not be titled in Colorado.
Odometer Disclosure
Required upon transfer of vehicle. Vehicles with a model year of 2010 or older, trailers and other vehicles without odometer devices, and trucks over 16,000 lbs. GVWR are exempt.
VIN / HIN Inspection
A Verification of Vehicle Identification Number (DR 2698) completed by a Colorado law enforcement officer, licensed dealer, or licensed emissions testing station is required on all vehicles titled in another state. Rebuilt vehicles, bonded titles, and vehicles with Special IDs require a Certified VIN Inspection (DR 2704). Fee $54.00.
Lien Law
An application for title must be presented to the County Motor Vehicle Office where the vehicle is domiciled with a copy of the security agreement, the title, title fee, and $40.00 lien filing fee. Technology fees may apply in certain counties. Lien is perfected as of the date it is filed with the County Clerk.
Second Lien
To add a second lien, the same procedures are followed except the application must show the first lienholder as well as the second lienholder and the County Motor Vehicle Office will request the title from the first lienholder to have the second lien noted.
Lien Expiration
Motor vehicle liens are valid for 10 years except on trailer coaches, truck tractors, multipurpose trailers, manufactured homes, and motor homes. Liens may be extended for successive 3-year periods. Lien extension fee $1.50.
Responsible Party for Filing
Colorado dealers are responsible for filing liens on in-state purchases. Lienholders are responsible for filing liens on vehicles purchased from an out-of-state dealer. Owners are responsible on private party sales.
Assignment of Lien
The lienholder prints "Lien Assignment" in the lien release area of the title. The title must be submitted with a copy of the security agreement with an assignment stamp on a separate assignment document that includes the bank name and signature of an authorized representative.
Repair Shop / Storage Lien
When a vehicle has been left for service or storage and there has been no contact with the person who left the vehicle for more than 30 days or the owner has refused to authorize repairs, has refused to remove the vehicle, or has refused to pay for authorized repairs, the vehicle may be sold if not claimed. Repair shop must complete the Repair Shop Abandoned Vehicle Titling Checklist (DR 2542) or the Title or Salvage Title Established by Storage Lien Checklist (DR 2711). A Storage Lien Bond Statement Guide (DR 2438) must be completed.
Release of Lien
Lien must be released on the face of the title within 15 days of satisfaction and presented to the local County Motor Vehicle Office. A separate lien release on company letterhead, signed under penalty of perjury, or a notarized declaration is acceptable. Title fee applies. If title is held electronically, the lienholder notifies their service provider of the release and a new title is mailed to the owner.
UCC Filings
Liens on non-titled vehicles and mechanic's liens are filed through the Secretary of State, Uniform Commercial Code, 1700 Broadway, Suite 550, Denver, CO 80290, [email protected], 303.894.2200. Paper filings not accepted; forms must be submitted online.
Electronic Lien & Title (ELT)
All parties may electronically file and release lien information. Participation is optional. To participate, lienholder must enter into an agreement with a Colorado-approved Service Provider and submit a Colorado Electronic Lien and Title Lender Application (DR 2843) to the DMV. Title on which a lien is shown is held electronically or mailed to lienholder.
Transfer of Title
Transfer is accomplished by assignment of title. Transfer must be made within 60 days. If an owner reports a transfer of ownership within five days of transfer, the owner is not liable for any misuse of the vehicle following the transfer. A Release of Liability Report may be made online.
Dealer Deadline
Dealers must deliver the title to the purchaser or lienholder within 30 days of sale to avoid penalty.
Damage Disclosure
A Branded Title Disclosure Statement (DR 2710) is required to disclose any title brand prior to sale or trade of a motor vehicle. Any owner, seller, or transferor of a vehicle rebuilt from salvage who fails to provide a copy of the disclosure affidavit to the purchaser shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and punished by a fine not to exceed $1,500 for the first offense and $5,000 for each subsequent offense.
Add/Remove a Party
Same procedures as any other transfer. New plates are not required; however, a new registration must be issued to show all owners.
Joint Ownership
When the title is issued in more than one name, all owners must sign. Where ownership is joint tenancy with right of survivorship, the letters JTWROS appear. To create joint tenancy with rights of survivorship, a Joint Tenancy with Rights of Survivorship Acknowledgment of Intent (DR 2383) must be submitted.
Notarization
Not required on Colorado titles issued December 1, 1988 or later; however, perjury statement is required.
Deceased Owner
If the deceased was the sole owner or if ownership is in tenancy in common, an official copy of the death certificate must be submitted with Letters of Testamentary, Letters of Administration, or a notarized Affidavit for Collection of Personal Property Pursuant to Small Estate Proceeding (DR 2712). If ownership is joint tenancy with right of survivorship, an official copy of the death certificate is required for transfer.
Transfer on Death (TOD)
A beneficiary may be appointed on a title. Upon death of the owner or last surviving joint owner, the title may be transferred upon submission of a Transfer of Title Upon Death Designated Beneficiary Form (DR 2009) and the death certificate.
Power of Attorney
A Power of Attorney for Motor Vehicle Only (DR 2175) may be used when the attorney-in-fact is signing the title document for both the buyer and seller and disclosing the odometer reading. If the POA is VIN specific, the original must be submitted. Two parties may not be placed on the POA.
Limited Assignment Space
When there are no assignment spaces available, a Selling Dealer Assignment to Buying Dealer and an odometer disclosure statement are required if title is non-conforming. For titles issued after August 1992, reassignment must be made on title. Individuals must obtain title in their name prior to assigning to another owner.
Repossession
After a debtor has been in default for 10 days for failure to make a required payment, the lienholder must send a Notice of Right to Cure the Default. If payment is not received within 20 days of notice, the lienholder may take possession of the vehicle without judicial process if it proceeds without a breach of the peace. The repossessor must notify law enforcement within one hour of repossession. Repossessor must disclose to the debtor that the repossessor is bonded for property damage of at least $50,000.
Obtaining Title After Repossession
To obtain title in the lienholder's name or to transfer title to a new owner, the lienholder must complete a Statement of Repossession (DR 2393). Lienholder does not release the lien on the title. The new owner must submit the title, the DR 2393, and an application for title.
Out-of-State Repossession
Same information applies for out-of-state repossession.
Registration
All vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds, low-powered scooters, trailers, and special mobile machinery used upon the highways and motorized boats, sailboats, OHVs, snowmobiles, and surplus military vehicles must be registered, unless exempt. Manufactured homes, U.S. government vehicles, firefighting vehicles, police vehicles, ambulances, patrol wagons, and farm implements are exempt. Class B low-speed electric vehicles cannot be registered.
Application for Registration
May be completed online through myDMV or directly with the County Motor Vehicle Office in county of residence once a Title Complete Notice is received. Secure and verifiable identification required. Registration card must be carried in the vehicle. Registration is required within 60 days of purchase; or 90 days after establishing residency in Colorado.
Boats, OHVs, surplus military vehicles, and snowmobiles are registered through the Colorado Parks & Wildlife or any CPW Office. Allow 2–4 weeks for processing.
IRP
Titles for commercial vehicles are handled by County Motor Vehicle Offices. License plate registration and IRP account creation is handled by appointment only through Motor Carrier Services, IRP, 3265 S. Wadsworth Boulevard #3A, Lakewood, CO 80227, 303.205.5607, fax 303.205.5981.
Nonresidents
All nonresident vehicles/vessels must display valid out-of-state plates/decals to be used in Colorado. Nonresidents who operate a business within Colorado and own and operate vehicles in such business must register in Colorado. All OHVs and motor vehicles, including motorcycles, must display a Colorado OHV Permit if operated in Colorado. Nonresident snowmobiles must display a Nonresident Snowmobile Permit. Properly registered nonresident motorboats and sailboats may be operated in Colorado for up to 60 days without registering. Motorboats and sailboats must display a Colorado ANS Stamp prior to launching.
Planned Non-Operation
An operable vehicle that is being stored must be registered. If the vehicle is not being driven and does not have insurance, a Non-Use of Vehicle (DR 2303) must be completed in place of insurance for each period of non-use not exceeding 12 months. Specific ownership tax is due annually. Owner must have insurance coverage on another vehicle. Inoperable vehicles undergoing maintenance, repair, restoration, rebuilding, or renovation must pay annual specific ownership tax and receive a decal as proof of registration.
Expiration
Late Registration Fees
Fee is $25.00 per month, with a maximum of $100.00. Fee is $10.00 per month for vehicles without motive power that weigh 16,000 lbs. or less, camper trailers, multipurpose trailers, trailer coaches, and special mobile machinery without motive power.
Special Permits
| Permit Type | Details | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary Permits | Not to exceed 60 days; issued by licensed dealers or County Clerks | — |
| 72-Hour Trip Permit (10,001–30,000 lbs DGVW) | Allows truck or truck tractor to be operated when loaded | $60.00 |
| 72-Hour Trip Permit (30,001–60,000 lbs DGVW) | Allows truck or truck tractor to be operated when loaded | $70.00 |
| 72-Hour Trip Permit (over 60,000 lbs DGVW) | Allows truck or truck tractor to be operated when loaded | $80.00 |
| Special Unladen Weight Registration | Unladen operation; valid 30 days — truck or truck tractor | $5.00 |
| Special Unladen Weight Registration | Unladen operation; valid 30 days — trailer or semitrailer | $3.00 |
Plates
Two plates issued; one plate for motorcycles, tractors, special mobile equipment, trailers, and some special plates. Class A plates remain with owner and can be transferred to another vehicle or surrendered to a County Motor Vehicle Office. Class B, C, D, and F plates expire upon transfer and may not be transferred to another vehicle. Class B, C, and D personalized plates, distinctive special license plates, group special license plates, and special alumni license plates may be transferred.
Military Registration
Nonresident military personnel stationed in Colorado must register in Colorado but are exempt from specific ownership tax upon submission of a Nonresidence and Military Service Exemption From Specific Ownership Tax (DR 2667). Trucks, passenger vehicles, motorcycles, or noncommercial or recreational vehicles owned by a disabled veteran, former POW, Pearl Harbor survivor, Navy Seabee, or recipients of certain military medals are exempt from annual registration fees and specific ownership tax.
Taxes
Sales / Use Tax
2.9%
State Sales Tax Rate
Varies
City & County Tax
Jan 1 & Jul 1
Rates Change Annually
State Sales / Use Tax
Motor vehicle sales in Colorado are subject to a 2.9% state rate plus city and county tax on the full purchase price. All taxes must be paid prior to titling and registering the vehicle. Rates change January 1 and July 1 annually. See Sales & Use Tax Rates Lookup for current rates.
Trade-In Credit
The fair market value of a trade-in is excluded from the taxable purchase price, as long as the motor vehicle the purchaser trades in is subject to licensing, registration, or certification.
Exemptions
- ●New residents are exempt on any motor vehicle acquired outside of Colorado and brought into Colorado when acquiring residency
- ●Motor vehicles transferred as a gift or prize are exempt if the business or person that made the gift paid sales/use tax on the acquisition
- ●Nonresidents purchasing a vehicle for registration in home state are exempt from tax
- ●State and state-administered sales and use taxes do not apply to motor vehicles purchased or leased to state governmental entities or charitable organizations
- ●State sales and use taxes do not apply to heavy vehicles with a GVWR greater than 26,000 lbs. or a GVWR greater than 10,000 lbs. operating on compressed natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, liquefied natural gas, electricity, or hydrogen fuel cells
Manufactured Homes
New manufactured homes are subject to sales tax on 52% of the purchase price. County tax on a new home is due if purchased from a dealer inside the county. Used (titled) manufactured homes are exempt state and county sales tax; however, city tax may be due.
Passenger Mile Tax
Collected on vehicles designed to carry 15 or more passengers for compensation. Tax is $0.001 multiplied by the number of passengers multiplied by the number of miles. Minimum tax $25.00.
Specific Ownership Tax
Collected in lieu of personal property tax. Tax is based on the year of manufacture and original taxable value.
| Model Year | Class A, B, C, D | Class F |
|---|---|---|
| 1st year | 2.1% of taxable value | 2.1% of taxable value |
| 2nd year | 1.5% of taxable value | 1.5% of taxable value |
| 3rd year | 1.2% of taxable value | 1.25% of taxable value |
| 4th year | 0.9% of taxable value | 1.0% of taxable value |
| 5th to 9th year | 0.45% of taxable value | 0.75% of taxable value |
| 10th year and older | $3.00 (Class D: 0.45% or $3.00) | 0.5% but not less than $5.00 |
Taxable value: Class A or B vehicles >16,000 lbs = 75% of actual purchase price; new fleet vehicles >16,000 lbs = 50% of actual purchase price; 16,000 lbs or less = 50% of MSRP. Class C and D = 85% of MSRP. Class F = 85% of MSRP or 100% of original retail delivered price. After January 1, 2028, taxable value is 60% of actual purchase price; 60% of MSRP if 16,000 lbs or less.
Property Tax (Manufactured Homes)
Titled manufactured homes are considered real property for property tax purposes. A Manufactured Home Transfer Declaration must be provided to the County Assessor within 30 days of transfer to avoid a penalty of $25.00 or 0.025% of the sales price, whichever is greater.
Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax
Required on all vehicles with a declared gross weight of 55,000 lbs. and over.
Registration / Plate Fees
Important Notes
- •A $4.00 Clerk Hire fee is assessed on all registration transactions.
- •A motorist insurance identification fee applies at time of registration and renewal.
- •An AIR Account fee of $0.50 applies to each Class A, B, or C registered vehicle plus an additional $1.50 if in an emissions program area.
- •A $10.00 Diesel Emissions fee is collected on every light- and heavy-duty diesel motor vehicle registered in an emissions area.
- •A $2.00 Emergency Medical Network fee is assessed on all registered motor vehicles.
- •A $1.00 Peace Officer Safety and Training Fund fee is assessed on every Class A, B, or C registered vehicle.
- •There is an additional $4.00 Motorcycle Operator Safety Training Fund surcharge for motorcycles.
- •There is an online registration fee estimator available on the Colorado DOR website.
Passenger Vehicles, Trailers & Buses
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Motorcycle and autocycle | $3.00 |
| Passenger vehicle, taxi, ambulance, motor home, hearse — 4,500 lbs or lessPlus $0.20 per 100 lbs over 2,000 lbs | $6.00 |
| Passenger vehicle, taxi, ambulance, motor home, hearse — over 4,500 lbsPlus $0.60 per 100 lbs over 4,500 lbs | $12.50 |
| Motor home — over 6,500 lbsPlus $0.30 per 100 lbs over 6,500 lbs | $24.50 |
| Passenger busPlus $1.75 per seat; if over 14 passengers, add $1.25 per seat over 14 | $25.00 |
| Trailer coach | $3.00 |
| Trailer, utility trailer, camping trailer — 2,000 lbs or less | $3.00 |
| Trailer, utility trailer, camping trailer — over 2,000 lbs | $7.50 |
| Trailer, utility trailer, camping trailer — over 6,000 lbsPlus $0.60 per 100 lbs over 4,500 lbs | $24.50 |
| Semitrailer | $7.50 |
| Noncommercial or recreational vehicle, except motor home — 6,000 lbs or less | See Truck fees |
Trucks & Truck Tractors (up to 16,000 lbs)
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Truck and truck tractor — 3,000 lbs or lessPlus $0.20 per 100 lbs over 2,000 lbs | $7.60 |
| Truck and truck tractor — 3,001–3,500 lbsPlus $0.20 per 100 lbs over 3,100 lbs | $10.20 |
| Truck and truck tractor — 3,501–4,400 lbsPlus $0.60 per 100 lbs over 3,600 lbs | $16.10 |
| Truck and truck tractor — 4,501–10,000 lbsPlus $2.00 per 100 lbs over 4,600 lbs | $35.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor — 10,001–10,100 lbs | $144.50 |
| Truck and truck tractor — 10,101–10,200 lbs | $146.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor — 10,201–10,300 lbs | $147.00 |
| Truck and truck tractor — 10,301–16,000 lbsPlus $1.50 per 100 lbs over 10,400 lbs | $149.00 |
Heavy Trucks & Truck Tractors (over 16,000 lbs)
Fees shown as: Standard / Common or Contract Carrier For Hire / Operates less than 10,000 miles in all jurisdictions
| Weight Range | Std / Carrier / <10K mi |
|---|---|
| 16,001–20,000 lbs | $330.00 / $440.00 / $330.00 |
| 20,001–24,000 lbs | $410.00 / $550.00 / $360.00 |
| 24,001–30,000 lbs | $490.00 / $660.00 / $380.00 |
| 30,001–36,000 lbs | $630.00 / $770.00 / $440.00 |
| 36,001–42,000 lbs | $770.00 / $930.00 / $500.00 |
| 42,001–48,000 lbs | $940.00 / $1,130.00 / $580.00 |
| 48,001–54,000 lbs | $1,150.00 / $1,430.00 / $600.00 |
| 54,001–60,000 lbs | $1,370.00 / $1,700.00 / $640.00 |
| 60,001–66,000 lbs | $1,570.00 / $1,980.00 / $660.00 |
| 66,001–74,000 lbs | $1,850.00 / $2,260.00 / $690.00 |
| Over 74,000 lbs | $1,975.00 / $2,350.00 / $710.00 |
Farm Trucks & Truck Tractors
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Farm truck and truck tractor — up to 4,500 lbsPlus $0.20 per 100 lbs over 2,000 lbs | $6.20 |
| Farm truck and truck tractor — 4,501–5,000 lbsPlus $0.60 per 100 lbs over 4,600 lbs | $13.10 |
| Farm truck and truck tractor — 5,001–10,000 lbsPlus $0.45 per 100 lbs over 5,000 lbs | $15.50 |
| Farm truck and truck tractor — 10,001–16,000 lbsPlus $1.20 per 100 lbs over 10,000 lbs | $38.00 |
| Farm truck and truck tractor — 16,001 lbs and overPlus $1.50 per 100 lbs over 16,000 lbs | $110.00 |
Highway Fee
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Less than 7 years old | $9.00 |
| 7 to less than 10 years old | $7.00 |
| 10 years old or older | $5.00 |
Applies to passenger cars, taxicabs, ambulances, motor homes, hearses, farm trucks, light trucks, and recreational vehicles.
FASTER Surcharges
Funding Advancement for Surface Transportation Economic Recovery (FASTER) fees are in addition to regular registration fees.
| Vehicle Type | Road Safety Surcharge | Bridge Safety Surcharge |
|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle or autocycle | $12.30 | $13.00 |
| Passenger vehicle 2,000 lbs or less | $12.30 | $13.00 |
| Passenger vehicle 2,001–5,000 lbs | $19.30 | $18.00 |
| Passenger vehicle 5,001–10,000 lbs | $24.30 | $23.00 |
| Trailer coach | $12.30 | — |
| Passenger bus 10,001–16,000 lbs | $33.30 | $29.00 |
| Passenger bus 16,001 lbs or more | $35.30 | $32.00 |
| Farm vehicle 2,000 lbs or less | $4.30 | $6.50 |
| Farm vehicle 2,001–5,000 lbs | $7.80 | $9.00 |
| Farm vehicle 5,001–10,000 lbs | $10.30 | $11.50 |
| Farm vehicle 10,001–16,000 lbs | $14.80 | $14.50 |
| Farm vehicle 16,001 lbs or more | $15.80 | $16.00 |
Electric Vehicle Road Usage Fees
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Plug-in electric vehicle registration fee | $60.05 |
| Commercial electric road usage — 10,000–16,000 lbs | $57.89 |
| Commercial electric road usage — 16,000–26,000 lbs | $115.76 |
| Commercial electric road usage — over 26,000 lbs | $173.65 |
| Battery electric motor vehicle road usageEffective July 1, 2026 | $26.00 |
| Plug-in hybrid motor vehicle road usageEffective July 1, 2026 | $13.00 |
EV decal fee is $0.69; $12.20 for plate. Battery electric motor vehicle road usage fee increases to $26.00 beginning July 1, 2026. Plug-in hybrid increases to $13.00.
Boats, Snowmobiles & OHVs (Colorado Parks & Wildlife)
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Boats less than 20 feet in length | $35.25 |
| Boats 20 feet to 30 feet | $45.25 |
| Boats 30 feet and over | $75.25 |
| ANS stamp (resident) | $25.00 |
| ANS stamp (nonresident) | $50.00 |
| Snowmobiles | $50.25 |
| Nonresident snowmobile permit | $50.25 |
| OHVs | $25.25 |
| Nonresident OHV permit | $25.25 |
Registered through Colorado Parks & Wildlife, Registration Unit, 13787 State Highway 85, Littleton, CO 80125, 303.297.1192 or 303.791.1954. Make checks payable to Colorado Parks and Wildlife. All motorized watercraft and sailboats must have an ANS Stamp prior to launching.
Plate & Material Fees
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Single embossed plate | $3.69 |
| Set of embossed plates | $7.38 |
| Digital set of plates | $11.27 |
| Month tab | $0.45 |
| Year tab | $0.48 |
| Mail fee (per mailing) | Up to $5.00 |
Personalized & Special Plates
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Personalized plates — issuance fee | $68.06 |
| Personalized plates — annual renewal fee | $25.00 |
| Designer personalized plates — issuance fee | $93.06 |
| Designer personalized plates — annual renewal fee | $50.00 |
| Historic plates — issuance fee | $25.00 |
| Historic plates — annual renewal fee | $25.00 |
Personalized plates may be transferred. A Personalized License Plate Application (DR 2810) may be completed or plates may be requested online.
Plate Transfer
Class B, C, D, and F vehicle plates may not be transferred. Class B, C, and D personalized plates, distinctive special license plates, group special license plates, and special alumni license plates may be transferred. Fee $1.00; $12.00 for personalized plates.
Duplicate & Replacement
A Lost or Stolen License Plate/Permit Affidavit (DR 2283) must be submitted. Fee $7.38 for a set of embossed plates; $3.69 for a single plate; $11.27 for digital set; $4.00 for duplicate registration. Fee $5.00 for boat, OHV, and snowmobile replacement registration.
Refunds / Credits
Refunds are issued in cases of official error and at the discretion of each County Motor Vehicle Office. If a registered vehicle is sold and a replacement vehicle is registered during the same period, a credit may be issued toward the new registration, minus a $1.00 transfer fee. Boat, OHV, and snowmobile transactions are non-refundable.
Colorado myDMV — Online Registration Fee Estimator
Estimate your total registration fees including county-specific charges
Official Forms & Resources
Links to official Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles forms and resources. Colorado counties manage motor vehicle titles and registrations. Most transactions can be completed online through myDMV or at your County Motor Vehicle Office.
Important: Colorado counties manage motor vehicle titles and registrations, not the DMV. Fees and taxes vary from county to county. Low-powered motor scooters and IRP are handled by the DMV.
Colorado Department of Revenue — Division of Motor Vehicles
Vehicle Services Program:
3265 S Wadsworth Boulevard #3A
Lakewood, CO 80227
Mailing:
PO Box 173350
Denver, CO 80217-3350
Make checks payable to Colorado Department of Revenue; or, if applying at a County Motor Vehicle Office, make check payable to County Clerk. Boats, OHVs, and snowmobiles: make checks payable to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Helpful Links
Colorado DOR — Division of Motor Vehicles
Main resource for titling and registration
myDMV Portal
Online title applications, registration renewals, and fee estimator
County Motor Vehicle Offices
Find your county clerk's motor vehicle office
Sales & Use Tax Rates Lookup
Look up current combined state and local tax rates
DMV Forms Library
All Colorado DMV forms and applications
Title Status Check / Kiosks
Check title status online or at kiosks
Colorado Parks & Wildlife — Registration
Boat, OHV, and snowmobile registration
Motor Vehicle Verification System
Confirm vehicle has not been reported as stolen
Need Help with Colorado Titling?
Illinois Title Services processes Colorado titles for consumers and dealerships. We handle the paperwork so you don't have to.
Contact UsGeneral Information
Lease Information
Leased vehicles are subject to the same title and registration procedures and fees as other vehicles. Title issued in the name of the lessor. Registration issued in the name of the lessor c/o lessee, with lessee's address. If the owner on the title is not the same as the registrant, a lease agreement is required.
Any lessor collecting state sales tax in Colorado must apply for and maintain an active sales tax license and file a Lessor Registration for Sales Tax Collection (DR 0440) with the Colorado Department of Revenue.
The Motor Vehicle Daily Rental fee is $5.34 ($2.34 daily vehicle rental fee + $3.00 congestion impact fee) imposed on all motor vehicle rentals of 30 days or less and car-sharing rentals lasting 24 hours or longer.
For leases of 36 months or less, sales and/or use taxes must be paid on the full purchase price the lessor paid for the acquisition of the property, unless the lessor has permission to collect taxes on all lease payments. Sales tax is collected on the lease payments for leases of more than 36 months.
Special Mobile Machinery (SMM)
Companies who rent or lease special mobile machinery (SMM) for at least 30 days per year may pay 2.0% Ownership Tax on the rental or lease amount rather than paying for a full year. Companies with 250 pieces or more of SMM who participate in the 2.0% Rental Program may apply for registration exemption if each SMM is clearly marked with owner's name, unit number, and phone number.
Financial Responsibility Laws
| Coverage | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury / Person | $25,000 |
| Bodily Injury / Accident | $50,000 |
| Property Damage | $15,000 |
| No-Fault Coverage | Additional required |
| Commercial Vehicles | $100,000/$300,000/$50,000 |
Insurance is compulsory. Proof of insurance is required at time of registration and must be carried in the vehicle. Failure to maintain motor vehicle insurance is punishable by driver license suspension, imprisonment, fine, and/or community service.
Emission Inspection
Required on all vehicles prior to sale or registration in Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, Douglas, and Jefferson counties, plus parts of Adams, Arapahoe, El Paso, Larimer, and Weld counties. 1982 and newer gas-powered vehicles and diesel vehicles less than 10 model years are tested every two years; all other vehicles are tested annually.
Exempt: Gasoline vehicles for the first seven model years; diesel vehicles for the first four model years (six years for heavy-duty diesel 26,000+ lbs GVWR). 1975 and older vehicles registered as a collector's item. Kit cars, all-electric vehicles, motorcycles, autocycles, horseless carriages, street rods, and farm vehicles are exempt.
Vehicles at least 32 years old are eligible for collector's item registration; however, vehicle must be initially inspected and then every five years thereafter.
Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection
Random inspections may be conducted by law enforcement.
Records
Filed by name, VIN, license plate number, and title number. Title records maintained for seven years plus current year. Registration records maintained for current year only. A Motor Vehicle Requestor Release (DR 2489A) and a Statement of Fact (DR 2444) must be submitted with a fee of $2.25 per search/history; add $0.55 per title record for certified records. A title/registration history report may be requested online.
Enforcement
Colorado State Patrol, 700 Kipling Street, Lakewood, CO 80215, 303.239.4500.
Colorado Department of Revenue — Division of Motor Vehicles
Address:
3265 S Wadsworth Boulevard #3A
Lakewood, CO 80227
Phone:
303.205.5600Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Fees, requirements, and procedures may change. Always verify current information with the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles, or your County Motor Vehicle Office — or contact Illinois Title Services for professional assistance.