Each state has its own laws and requirements. What is required where you live now may not be the case in Colorado. I have listed state requirements you should be aware of before you move to Colorado.

1. Becoming a resident of Colorado: After a move to Colorado you become a resident when you start employment and obtain a Colorado Drivers License and Colorado Vehicle Plates. You may register to vote at the same location that you obtain your license. If you do not register to vote at that time, it can be accomplished almost any weekday at the local County Clerk's office where you reside.

2. School Registration: Public school registration will vary by county and district. It is best to contact the District early to verify what they will require. It’s a good idea to keep birth certificates handy. Some schools may require transfer of previous school records, which can take from 14 to 30 days. Private schools will have different requirements which should be checked prior to moving, if possible. Colorado higher education institutions have in-state tuition available. To be eligible, you must reside in Colorado for 12 months after formally meeting residency requirements as stated above. For more information, see our "Links" page.

3. Driving in Colorado: Once you start work, the state of Colorado requires that you obtain a Colorado Drivers License and Colorado Vehicle License Plates within 90 days.

• Vehicle Registration: Within the 90 day period, you are required to license all vehicles garaged in Colorado. The license and owner’s tax fee is based on the vehicle age and value. For example, a l992 vehicle costing $19,000 will be licensed for $25 plus owners tax of $399. Each year the owners tax will decrease.
  
• Titles: In order to title your vehicle, you must show proof of purchase with sales tax paid in a previous state, or you will be subject to Colorado sales tax. You will be assessed state tax of 3% plus county and city tax at your home address. City and county tax varies and can amount to as much as an additional four and a half percent of the purchase price. The total sales tax can be as high as seven and one half percent.
  
• Collectors Plates: To qualify for a Collector’s License Plate your vehicle must be 25 years or older. If you purchase the plate for a five year period, the charge is $125. Collector vehicles dated 1960 or newer must still pass emission tests.
  
• Emission Tests: Colorado’s Front Range cities require emission testing for all automobiles and nonagricultural use trucks. Tests are generally renewal once a year.
  
• Insurance: Vehicle insurance coverage is mandatory in the state of Colorado. It must be verified at the time of vehicle registration. The mandatory liability minimum in Colorado is $25,000 bodily injury, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 property damage.

Many factors must be considered when you relocate yourself, your family or your business. This information has been presented to assist in your relocation planning. The key to a successful and happy move is to plan carefully, ask questions, and evaluate answers.