Spotlight on the DMV: Colorado DRIVES

Over the last three years, the Department of Revenue’s Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has been upgrading its information technology (IT) systems, which includes online services. On February 21, 2017, the first phase of Colorado DRIVES (Driver License Record Identification Vehicle Enterprise Solution) was successfully launched replacing the decades old Driver License System (DLS). But what does it mean?

Quite simply, as an effort to support the Governor’s plan to reduce wait times, the internal IT computer systems used by DMV and County employees to issue driver licenses, permits and ID cards and register your car will become more flexible, reliable accurate and provide an integrated solution for both driver and vehicle services. The vehicle services will be upgraded in August 2018, replacing a system installed between 1983 and 1988. In addition, the new IT system will offer dramatically more services online.

With the implementation of the first phase of the Colorado DRIVES system, there are 11 new online services available. The new slogan, “Skip the trip to the DMV with online services!” reminds Colorado residents that the DMV has made it easy to complete many essential tasks, including renewing your driver license and vehicle registration. You can also make an appointment, update your address, request your driving record and more, all online! There are some parameters that must be met in order to renew online, so be sure to visit the DMV website to prepare for your renewal, whether in person or online.