As a legal template specialist with over 12 years drafting advance directive and end-of-life documents for clients across the United States, I have helped hundreds of Colorado residents complete a valid Colorado Do Not Resuscitate form (also called a Colorado DNR or CPR Directive). In this comprehensive guide, I’ll provide you with a free, attorney-reviewed Colorado DNR template for 2025, explain exactly how to complete it correctly under Colorado law, and answer the most common questions I receive from families every week.
Important Disclaimer: This article and the downloadable template are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal or medical advice. Always consult a licensed Colorado attorney or your physician to ensure your documents meet your specific needs.
Download your free Colorado Do Not Resuscitate (CPR Directive) template here:
Download Free Colorado DNR Form (PDF)
In Colorado, the official name for a Do Not Resuscitate order is a CPR Directive (Colorado Revised Statutes § 15-18.6-101 et seq.). This standalone document instructs emergency medical personnel (EMS, paramedics, and hospital staff) not to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), chest compressions, defibrillation, or advanced airway management if your heart or breathing stops.
Unlike a living will or MOST form that applies only inside healthcare facilities, a properly executed Colorado DNR is recognized anywhere in the state — at home, in hospice, or in public. Having one prevents unwanted heroic measures and gives you control over end-of-life care.
According to the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE), thousands of Coloradans execute CPR Directives each year, especially those with terminal illness, advanced age, or serious chronic conditions.
Colorado law is very specific about validity. Your Colorado Do Not Resuscitate form is legally binding only if it meets ALL of these requirements (C.R.S. § 15-18.6-103):
Source: Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment – CPR Directives and C.R.S. Title 15, Article 18.6
Below is the exact template I provide to my private clients (updated for 2025 statutory language). Click the button above to download the fillable PDF version.
| State of Colorado CPR Directive (Do Not Resuscitate) | |
|---|---|
| Patient Full Name: | _______________________________ |
| Date of Birth: | _______________________________ |
| Declaration: | I, the undersigned, have discussed my health status with my provider and understand that death is imminent or that resuscitation would be futile. I direct that CPR not be performed if my heart stops or if I stop breathing. |
| Patient/Representative Signature: | _______________________________ Date: __________ |
| Printed Name of Representative (if applicable) & Relationship: | _______________________________ |
| Provider Signature (MD/DO/APRN/PA): | _______________________________ Date: __________ |
| Provider Printed Name & License #: | _______________________________ |
| Document | Applies When | Applies Where | Requires Provider Signature? |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPR Directive (DNR) | Only if pulse or breathing stops | Anywhere in Colorado | Yes |
| MOST Form | Broad medical treatment limits | Healthcare facilities & EMS | Yes |
| Living Will | Terminal condition + unable to communicate | Hospitals & facilities only | No |
Pro Tip from my practice: Most of my clients over 65 execute both a CPR Directive and a Colorado Medical Durable Power of Attorney for complete protection.
No. The document must follow the statutory language in C.R.S. § 15-18.6-102 or use the state-approved form. Using the free template above keeps you compliant.
No. Once signed by you and your provider, it remains valid indefinitely unless you revoke it.
No. EMS and hospitals must honor a valid CPR Directive even if family members object at the scene.
Notarization is NOT required and does not substitute for the required physician signature.
Destroy all copies, remove the bracelet, and notify your doctor in writing. You may also execute a new directive allowing CPR.
Colorado first responders are trained to look for:
Posting the form on your refrigerator and telling your family where copies are kept is the single most effective step my clients take.
In my 12+ years drafting end-of-life documents, I’ve seen firsthand how a properly executed Colorado Do Not Resuscitate form spares families from heartbreaking decisions during emergencies. Taking 15 minutes today to download, discuss, and complete this free template can prevent unwanted resuscitation attempts tomorrow.
Again, download the attorney-reviewed 2025 Colorado DNR/CPR Directive template here:
Free Download – Colorado Do Not Resuscitate Form (PDF)
If you need additional advance directive documents (Medical Power of Attorney, Living Will, or FIVE WISHES), let me know — I have free Colorado-compliant templates for those as well.
Stay safe and take control of your healthcare choices.
This article was last updated November 2025. Always verify current statutes at leg.colorado.gov.