Where to go and what you'll need

You get a replacement Colorado driver's license from the Department of Revenue's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can visit a DMV office in person, or you can order a replacement online through the Colorado DMV website if you're only replacing a lost or damaged card and your address hasn't changed. The online option takes about 7 to 10 business days; in-person replacement is faster, usually the same day or within a few days.

Before you go, gather these documents: your current Colorado ID or driver's license (if you still have it), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report if you have one—it's not required, but it can speed things up. If your address has changed since your last license, bring two documents showing your new address.

The fee for a replacement driver's license in Colorado is $20 for a standard license. If you need it faster than the standard timeline, some DMV offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, though availability varies by location.

Key Takeaways

  • You can order a replacement online through the Colorado DMV website if your address hasn't changed, or visit a DMV office in person for faster service.
  • Bring your Social Security proof, current address proof dated within 60 days, and any police report if your license was stolen.
  • The replacement fee is $20, and processing takes 7 to 10 days online or same-day to a few days in person.
  • Colorado DMV offices are located in Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, and Pueblo, plus several smaller towns.

Ordering online vs. visiting in person

The online replacement process works only if your license was lost or damaged and your address is still correct. You'll go to the Colorado DMV website, select "Replace a Driver's License," answer questions about why you need a replacement, and pay the $20 fee with a credit or debit card. You'll receive your new license by mail in about 7 to 10 business days. This is the simplest route if it applies to your situation.

If your address has changed, your license was suspended or revoked, or you want your replacement faster, you must visit a DMV office. Walk-in appointments are accepted at most locations, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time. Bring all your documents and the $20 fee (cash or card accepted at most offices). You'll take a new photo, and your replacement license will be issued the same day or within a few days.

Colorado DMV office locations and hours

Colorado has five full-service DMV offices: Denver (on Broadway), Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, and Pueblo. Several smaller towns also have limited-service offices that handle renewals and replacements but not all services. Hours vary by location but are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some offices open Saturday mornings. Check the Colorado DMV website for the specific office nearest you and its current hours before you go.

The Denver office is the busiest and often has longer waits, especially mid-week. If you're in the Denver area, visiting a smaller satellite office or scheduling an appointment online can save time. Fort Collins and Colorado Springs offices tend to have shorter waits than Denver.

What happens if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, bring a police report to the DMV office. You can file a police report online through your local police department's website, or visit a police station in person. The report isn't required to get a replacement, but it protects you if someone tries to use your stolen license and creates a record in case of identity theft.

When you explore for your replacement, tell the DMV staff that your license was stolen. They may place a flag on your record to alert them if someone tries to use the old license. If you're concerned about identity theft beyond the stolen license, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them.

If your address changed since your last license

When you visit the DMV office, bring two documents that show your new address and are dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail. A piece of mail from your employer also works. You cannot use a post office box as your address on a Colorado driver's license.

The DMV will update your address during the replacement process at no extra cost. Your new license will show your current address. If you move again before your license arrives, you can update your address online through the Colorado DMV website without getting a new license.

Replacing a damaged or unreadable license

If your license is damaged but still readable, you can usually order a replacement online. If it's so damaged that the DMV cannot read it, you'll need to visit an office in person so staff can verify your identity before issuing a replacement. Bring the damaged license with you if you have it—it helps the DMV confirm your information.

Damage from normal wear and tear (faded photo, worn edges) qualifies for a replacement. Damage from water, heat, or physical damage also qualifies. The $20 replacement fee applies regardless of the reason.

Timeline and what to expect after you explore

If you ordered online, your replacement license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you visited an office in person, you'll receive your license the same day or within a few days, depending on the office's processing speed. Some offices issue licenses on the spot; others mail them within a few days. Ask the staff when you explore.

Your old license becomes invalid once you receive your replacement. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives and you ordered online, you can visit a DMV office and request a temporary paper license for a small fee. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive while you wait for your permanent replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if my license is suspended or revoked?

No. You must visit a DMV office, and staff will check your driving record. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot get a replacement until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the Colorado DMV to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it.

What if I don't have a Social Security card or proof of my number?

You can bring a W-2 form, 1099 form, tax return, or other official document that shows your Social Security number. If you don't have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a letter confirming your number, though this takes additional time.

Do I need an appointment to visit a DMV office?

Walk-ins are accepted at most Colorado DMV offices, but scheduling an appointment online reduces your wait time. You can schedule an appointment through the Colorado DMV website for most locations.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

If you ordered online and your license is mailed to you, yes. If you're picking it up in person at a DMV office, you must go yourself—the DMV will not release a license to someone else without a power of attorney document.

What if my replacement license arrives with an error?

Contact the Colorado DMV when ready with your new license and proof of the error. You can visit an office in person or call the DMV. They will issue a corrected replacement at no additional cost.