Where the Durango Driver's License Office Is Located

The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office that serves Durango is located at 1313 Camino del Rio, Durango, CO 81301. This is the only full-service DMV office in La Plata County, so it handles all driver's license, ID card, and vehicle registration work for the area.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and closed on state holidays. There is no Saturday or evening service. Parking is available in the lot adjacent to the building.

Key Takeaways

  • The Durango DMV office is at 1313 Camino del Rio and is open weekdays only, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • You must bring a Real ID-compliant document (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers) plus proof of Colorado residency to get a driver's license.
  • The office does not take walk-ins; you must schedule an appointment online through the Colorado DMV website or call 303-205-5600.
  • Processing a new driver's license takes about 15 minutes once you are called, but the office often has a wait even with an appointment.
  • You can renew your license by mail or online if you do not need to change your address, name, or photograph.

What Documents You Need to Bring

Colorado requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of residency. For identity, bring one of these: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a valid foreign passport with an I-94 arrival/departure record. A photocopy is not acceptable — you must bring the original document.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax notice in your name with a Colorado address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail also works. You need only one residency document.

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you have a current out-of-state driver's license, bring that too — it speeds up the process. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present with their own ID.

How to Schedule an Appointment

The Durango DMV office does not accept walk-ins. You must book an appointment online through the Colorado DMV website at dmv.colorado.gov or by phone at 303-205-5600. The online system shows available time slots for the Durango location; you can usually find an opening within one to three weeks, though this varies by season.

When you book online, you will select the service you need (new driver's license, renewal, ID card, etc.), choose your preferred date and time, and receive a confirmation number. Write down or screenshot this number — you will need it when you arrive. If you cannot book online, call the number above and a representative will schedule you over the phone.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your appointment time. Bring all required documents and your confirmation number. The office processes people in appointment order, though delays do happen.

What Happens During Your Visit

When you arrive, check in at the front desk with your confirmation number. A staff member will verify your documents, take your photograph, and collect your fee. The photograph is taken at the office — you cannot bring your own. You will also answer questions about your address, any name changes, and whether you want to register as an organ donor.

The entire process usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for driving when ready. Your permanent plastic license card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within two weeks, call the DMV to check the status.

Fees and Payment Methods

A new Colorado driver's license costs $28.25 for an eight-year license (the standard term for adults). A renewal costs $28.25. An ID card (for non-drivers) costs $20. The Durango office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Personal checks are not accepted.

If you are renewing and your license is not expired, you may be able to renew by mail or online for a lower fee. Check the Colorado DMV website to see if you are may be able to access — you cannot renew online if you need to change your photograph, address, or name.

Renewing Your License by Mail or Online

If your license is not yet expired and you do not need to update your photograph, address, or name, you can renew by mail or online without visiting the office. Online renewal is available through the Colorado DMV website and costs $28.25. Mail renewal requires sending your current license and a check to the state DMV office in Denver; the form and instructions are on the DMV website.

Mail renewal takes 10 to 15 business days from the time the state receives your materials. Online renewal is faster — you receive your temporary license when ready and your permanent card within 7 to 10 business days. If you have changed your address or name since your last license, you must renew in person at the Durango office.

What to Do If You Cannot Visit During Business Hours

The Durango office does not have evening or weekend hours. If you cannot visit Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., your options are limited. You can renew by mail or online if you are may be able to access (see the section above). You can also travel to another Colorado DMV office if one is closer to your work or schedule — the nearest alternatives are in Bayfield (about 30 minutes north) or Silverton (about 50 minutes northeast), though Silverton has limited hours.

If you need a new license and cannot visit during regular hours, you will need to take time off work or arrange your appointment for a day you are available. The DMV does not offer exceptions to the weekday-only schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. Renewing early does not change your expiration date — your new license will expire one year from the date you renew, not eight years from now. Many people renew early if they are traveling or want to avoid a rush closer to their expiration date.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

Bring a document that shows your Social Security number instead, such as a tax return, W-2, or bank statement. If you do not have any document with your number, you can explore for a replacement Social Security card through the Social Security Administration before visiting the DMV, though this adds time to the process.

Do I need a Real ID-compliant license to fly domestically?

Yes, starting May 7, 2025, a standard Colorado driver's license will not be accepted for domestic flights. You will need a Real ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of ID like a passport. The Durango DMV issues Real ID licenses by default, so your new license will be compliant as long as you bring the required identity document.

How long does it take to get a new license if I am moving to Colorado?

If you are moving from another state, you must visit the Durango office in person with your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Colorado, and proof of identity. The process takes about 20 minutes. You receive a temporary license when ready and your permanent license within 7 to 10 business days. You must exchange your out-of-state license — Colorado does not issue licenses to people who hold valid licenses from other states.

What if my appointment time does not work and I need to reschedule?

Log back into the Colorado DMV website with your confirmation number and cancel your appointment. You can then book a new time slot. If you booked by phone, call 303-205-5600 to reschedule. Cancellations are free, and you can reschedule as many times as needed.