Colorado Private Occupational School Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect prepaid tuition fees if a school closes
- Who Needs It: All private career or vocational schools that recruit Colorado students
- Regulating Body: The Colorado Department of Education — Division of Private Occupational Schools
- Bond Amount: $5,000–$250,000, based on maximum prepaid tuition and fees
- Minimum Price: $100, credit-based
What Is a Colorado Private Occupational School Bond?
A Colorado private occupational school bond protects your students’ prepaid tuition if your school unexpectedly goes out of business.
If you are planning to open a private, tuition-based career or vocational school, you’ll need a surety bond.
Bond Requirements for Colorado Private Career Schools
The Division of Private Occupational Schools (DPOS) requires all registered schools to have a minimum $5,000 surety bond.
Additionally, out-of-state schools that solicit Colorado students also need a bond. Your exact amount depends on your school’s maximum prepaid, unearned tuition and fees.
How Much Do Private Occupational School Bonds Cost?
Colorado private occupational school bonds start at $100 or 1% of the bond amount. Your exact rate will vary based on coverage and credit score.
Apply for a free quote today with no impact on your credit score!
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a Colorado Private Occupational School Bond Work?
Like all surety bonds, this bond is a legal contract between you, the state and the surety provider.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| Principal | The private occupational school owner purchasing the bond |
| Obligee | The Colorado Division of Private Occupational Schools requiring the bond |
| Surety | The issuing surety provider |
If you break the bond terms, harmed parties can file claims. The surety will pay valid claims up to your full bond amount. However, you must ultimately refund the surety.
How Do I Get Bonded?
You can start the bonding process right on this page! Just follow these steps:
- Fill out the quote request form
- Receive a free quote within one business day*
- Pay the premium
- File the digital bond form with the DPOS
*To speed up the quote process, have your current business financials and a personal financial statement on-hand if requested.
How Do I Renew My Bond?
Colorado private vocational school bonds expire annually. Once you pay the renewal premium, we’ll issue a continuation certificate to extend your bond term. Be sure to file this form with the DPOS.
Can I Make Changes to My Bond?
If you need to update your bond form, email [email protected] with the needed change. We’ll issue a bond rider, if possible.
How to Open a Private Occupational School in Colorado
Your exact application process with the DPOS will vary depending on whether your school is in-state or out-of-state. However, these are the general steps to apply:
- Request a username at ColoradoETPL.org
- Submit the application forms and fees via DPOS Connect. Allow 60–90 days for processing
- Undergo an onsite inspection of your facilities
- Complete an industry consultant evaluation (if required)
- Have your application presented to the Private Occupational Schools Board for approval
Once approved, you’ll need to renew your certificate every three years. New schools receive a provisional certificate that’s only valid for one or two years.
If you need to update your school’s name or address, complete the corresponding form on DPOS Connect and pay any applicable fees.
