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I'm currently homeless and need a license for work. I do not want to go to a shelter or request help from friends or family. Yet, the local DMV will not let me apply for a driver's license without an address. Is there any way around this?

Zizouz212
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Justice Plant
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2 Answers2

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While Colorado does issue driver's licenses to homeless individuals, as you identified in your question, you need the help of a homeless shelter. I can see from your questions that you're reluctant to seek help from family, friends, or a shelter; however, I do not see a lawful way around Colorado's residency requirement without their assistance.

Under C.R.S. § 42-2-107(1)(a)(II), the DMV cannot issue a driver's license

"until [it] verifies all facts relative to such applicant's right to receive an instruction permit or minor driver's or driver's license including the age, identity, and residency of the applicant."

Here is a link to Colorado's statutes. Unfortunately, I can't link to the specific provision cited above.

The administrative rules further explain what is required for the department to verify residency. The regulations also talk about the exception for homeless people and specifically state that

"Proof of residency documents are waived, if an applicant provides a letter on letterhead, signed by the director of a homeless shelter, certifying that the individual is homeless and stays at the shelter." 1 Colo. Code Regs. § 204- 30:16-2.12.

Under the law and applicable registration, you cannot give a PO Box as your residence. You must give an actual address that you are supposed to be residing at. I don't know your individual circumstances; however, you might find it easier to stay at a friends house long enough to get your driver's license.

Hope this is helpful to you.

Mr_V
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Check out this video by Will Prowse: https://youtu.be/GFIwYY3QD3s

In short, getting a private mailbox is the solution for you. He explains that there are certain things, such as W-2 (wage and tax statement) forms, that you cannot get shipped to a PO box but CAN receive through a private mailbox.

The UPS website (https://www.theupsstore.com/mailboxes) says that with one of their "personal mailboxes" you get "a street address, not a P.O. Box number".

chungachanga
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