Where the Lakewood DMV office is and what it handles
The Lakewood Driver License Office is a Colorado Department of Revenue location that issues driver licenses, ID cards, and handles renewals and replacements. It is not the only DMV office in the Lakewood area — there are multiple locations across the Denver metro region — but this office serves residents who live in or near Lakewood itself.
This office does not handle vehicle registration, title transfers, or commercial licensing. Those services are handled at separate Colorado DMV locations. Before you go, confirm that the Lakewood office handles what you need, because showing up for the wrong service wastes a trip.
Key Takeaways
- The Lakewood Driver License Office issues standard driver licenses, ID cards, and handles renewals, but not vehicle registration or commercial licenses.
- You will need to bring specific documents — a Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity — and the exact documents depend on whether you are renewing, replacing, or getting a license for the first time.
- Colorado allows you to renew your driver license online or by mail if you meet certain conditions, which may be faster than visiting in person.
- Wait times at the Lakewood office vary by time of day and day of week; calling ahead or checking the Colorado DMV website can tell you current wait times before you go.
- If you cannot visit the Lakewood location, other DMV offices in the Denver area offer the same services and may have shorter waits.
Documents you need to bring
Colorado requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. The exact documents that satisfy each category depend on whether you are renewing an existing license, replacing a lost or damaged one, or getting a license for the first time.
For proof of identity, bring a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address.
If you are renewing a license that is still valid, you may not need all three categories — the Colorado DMV website lists the exact documents for your situation. If you are replacing a lost license or getting one for the first time, bring all three.
When you can renew online or by mail instead
Colorado allows online renewal if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not changed your name or address since your last license was issued. You can renew online through the Colorado DMV website without visiting an office.
If you do not meet the online requirements but your license is still valid, you can renew by mail. You will need to send your current license, a completed process form, and the renewal fee to the address listed on the Colorado DMV website. Mail renewal takes longer than in-person renewal — typically two to three weeks — so plan ahead if you need your new license by a specific date.
If your license is expired, you have changed your name or address, or you have medical restrictions, you must visit an office in person. The Lakewood location is one option, but you can also visit any other Colorado DMV office.
What to expect when you arrive
Arrive with all required documents and be prepared to wait. The Lakewood office does not take appointments, so service is first-come, first-served. Wait times vary — they are typically shorter early in the morning on weekdays and longer in the afternoon or on Saturdays.
When you reach the counter, staff will verify your documents, take your photograph, and collect the fee. You will also take a written test if you are getting a license for the first time or if your license has been expired for more than one year. If you need to renew your license plate sticker or handle vehicle registration at the same time, you will need to go to a different office or window.
Your new license will be mailed to the address you provide. Standard delivery takes five to seven business days. You can request expedited delivery for an additional fee if you need it sooner.
Fees and payment methods
The fee for a standard driver license renewal is set by Colorado and does not vary by location. The fee for a replacement license (lost or damaged) is higher than a renewal. The fee for a first-time license is different again. The Colorado DMV website lists the current fees for each type of transaction.
The Lakewood office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices also accept checks, but confirm payment methods before you go. If you are paying by check, bring a valid ID and be prepared to provide your bank account information.
If you cannot visit the Lakewood office
Other Colorado DMV offices in the Denver metro area offer the same services. The offices in Aurora, Westminster, and Littleton are nearby alternatives if the Lakewood location has long waits or inconvenient hours. You can visit any Colorado DMV office for a driver license or ID card transaction — you do not have to go to the one closest to your home.
Before driving to a different location, check the Colorado DMV website for current wait times at each office. Some offices are consistently busier than others, and a short drive to a less crowded location can save you an hour or more of waiting.
What to do if you fail the written test
If you are getting a license for the first time or renewing after a long expiration and you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most Colorado DMV offices, including Lakewood. You will pay a retest fee each time you take the test. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, but each attempt costs money and takes time.
If you fail, ask the staff at the Lakewood office for study materials or a link to the online practice test. The Colorado DMV website has a free practice test that covers the same material as the real test. Most people pass on the second attempt after studying the practice test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. Colorado allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early does not change your expiration date — your new license will still expire on the same date your old one would have. Renewing early is useful if you are about to travel and want a fresh license, or if you know you will be busy when your license is about to expire.
How long does it take to get my new license after I leave the office?
Standard delivery takes five to seven business days. Expedited delivery is available for an additional fee and typically arrives in two to three business days. You can request expedited delivery at the counter when you renew. Until your new license arrives, you can use your receipt as proof that you have a valid license.
What if I moved to Colorado from another state?
You will need to get a Colorado driver license within 30 days of moving. Bring your out-of-state license as proof of identity, along with proof of Social Security number and proof of Colorado residency. You will take the written test and the driving test unless you are under 21 or your out-of-state license is less than one year old.
Can someone else pick up my new license for me?
No. Colorado requires the person whose name is on the license to pick it up in person or have it mailed to their address. You cannot authorize someone else to collect it at the office. If you need your license mailed to a different address than the one on your process, contact the Colorado DMV before your new license is mailed.
What if I lost my Social Security card?
You can bring a W-2 form, 1099 form, or other document that shows your Social Security number instead of the card itself. If you do not have any of these documents, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you visit the DMV office — the DMV cannot issue a license without proof of your Social Security number.