The issue date on a Colorado driver's license is labeled ISS and appears on the front of the card. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues licenses valid for 5 years for most adult drivers. Here is where to find ISS and what every field on your Colorado license means.

Where to find the issue date on a Colorado driver's license

On the current Colorado DMV license design, the issue date is labeled ISS and printed on the front of the card. ISS stands for Issue Date and shows when Colorado DMV issued your current card. Renewing your license resets ISS while your license number stays the same.

Date fields on a Colorado driver's license

• ISS — Issue date. When your current card was printed.
• DOB — Date of birth. Your birthdate for identity and age verification.
• EXP — Expiration date. Colorado driver's licenses are valid for 5 years for most adult drivers.

What does DD mean on a Colorado driver's license?

DD stands for Document Discriminator, a unique serial number for each physical card. It changes every time a new card is issued and differs from your license number. Banks, car rental agencies, and identity systems use it to confirm the card has not been altered.

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Restrictions on a Colorado driver's license

Colorado licenses display restrictions in the RSTR field. Common codes:

• A — Corrective lenses required
• B — Daylight driving only
• C — No highway or expressway driving
• E — Automatic transmission only

Colorado REAL ID

Colorado offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant licenses. A REAL ID Colorado license has a gold star in the upper right corner. From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another accepted federal document is required for domestic air travel and federal facilities. To get a Colorado REAL ID, visit a Colorado DMV office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your Colorado address.

How to renew a Colorado driver's license

Colorado DMV offers online renewal at dmv.colorado.gov for eligible drivers. Online renewal is available if you do not need a new photo and your information has not changed. In-person renewal at a Colorado DMV office is required for first-time REAL ID and new photos. Colorado DMV offices are open Monday through Friday, with some Saturday hours at select locations.

How to find your original Colorado licensing date

The ISS date on your card shows when your current card was issued, not your original licensing date. To find your original date, request a Colorado driving record through the DMV website or in person at a Colorado DMV office.