Colorado License Plate Display Law — 2025 Guide
Colorado requires both front and rear license plates.
The Law at a Glance
Recent Changes
Colorado has the second-oldest plate design in continuous use (since 1960). State government vehicles use 'GVT' code.
State-Specific Notes
Colorado is one of the original two-plate states.
Plate Design Details
ABC-D12 (2018–present); ABC-123 (2015–2018); 123-ABC (2000–2015)Letter Exclusions
Q was skipped until 2013, when population growth required adding it. Colorado uses a more rounded '0' die than 'O' die for visual differentiation.
Historical Plates Still Valid
Earlier 1977–1981 embossed mountain scene plates with county-coded serials are still valid for renewal but cannot be transferred. The serial may be retained and transferred to a new plate for a fee.
Notable Facts
Colorado has the second-oldest U.S. license plate design in continuous use — the green Rockies scene has been in production since 1960 (continuously since 1978), with only minor cosmetic refreshes.
How atroq Frames Stay Compliant in Colorado
atroq frames in Colorado are engineered to comply with all display requirements. The frame's recessed sticker windows keep renewal stickers visible. The frame's thickness does not obscure the alphanumeric serial, state name, or the issuing jurisdiction. atroq's universal mounting fits Colorado's standard 6 × 12 inch passenger plates. Since Colorado requires both plates, customers typically order frames in pairs.
Design your Colorado-compliant frame
Premium custom license plate frames built for Colorado's display requirements. MOQ 500. From $1.30 / frame.
Open the Customizer →