Colorado - relaxed state for a relaxed template

Simpler hologram = more consistent quality across batches. Smart point.

Just wanted to add my two cents on the Colorado template since it came up. I've been messing around with this one for a bit, and honestly the original post nails it — Denver culture really is more relaxed about this stuff. Which makes Colorado a solid pick if you're looking for something that doesn't draw unnecessary attention. The template itself is pretty straightforward, but there are some details worth going over if you're considering it.

First off, the microprint on the Colorado DL is actually pretty decent. Along the top edge near the "Colorado" header you've got that tiny repeating text that reads "Colorful Colorado" or something along those lines — it's small but legible under a loop. Most of the newer versions I've seen are pretty clear on that, no weird smudging or broken lettering. The real test though is the secondary microprint around the photo area and the birth date line. On a good version, it holds up fine. On a sloppy one, it'll look like a dotted line from a distance. Definitely worth checking before you commit.

The UV response is where Colorado stands out a bit. Under blacklight, the state outline and the "Colorado" text glow a bright, almost electric blue — not the dull washed-out blue some other states have. It's pretty vivid, and the brightness holds up well even with a lower-powered UV flashlight. There's also some subtle ghost images in the background that pop under UV, like the state flower and a few other design elements. The contrast is good, and it doesn't just look like a solid block of glow. That said, I've come across versions where the UV ink is slightly off-center or a bit too thick, so YMMV.

As for OVI, the color shift is present on the "Colorado" text on the front — it shifts from a deep green to a copper/gold depending on the angle. It's not as dramatic as the purple-to-green you see on some real IDs, but the shift is noticeable. On a good quality version, it's smooth and doesn't have that weird rainbow sheen. The lettering is crisp, no bleeding. I've seen some where the shift is too rapid or only works at one angle, which is a dead giveaway.

Card material feel is another big thing to consider. Colorado uses a polycarbonate blend that has a distinct snap to it — not flimsy like PVC, not too thick like some other states. A good reproduction will have that slight flexibility but still feel rigid when you bend it lightly. The texture on the back is slightly matte, not glossy. The edges should be smooth, no rough spots or anything. I've handled a few where the lamination felt a little tacky or the card was slightly warped, but most of the time people get it right.

Overall, I'd give the Colorado template a solid 7.5 out of 10. It's not perfect, but for a relaxed state where the bouncers aren't microscoping every little detail, it does the job. If you're in the Denver area or just passing through, it's a good pick. Just make sure the microprint and UV are dialed in, and you're golden. The relaxed culture really does work in your favor here — nobody's going to give you a hard time over a minor edge flaw.

CO is my top rec for anyone in the Rocky Mountain area.