How to Replace Your Colorado Driver's License

Where to go and what you need

You replace your Colorado driver's license at a Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, not online or by mail. Colorado has DMV locations in most counties; the main office is in Denver, but you can visit any location in the state. You will need to bring your current license (if you still have it), proof of identity, and proof of Colorado residency — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works for residency.

If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report if you have one, though it is not required. If your license was damaged or the photo is faded, bring the physical card itself so the clerk can see the condition. The DMV will take your new photo at the office, so plan for that — wear something you are comfortable being photographed in.

You do not need an appointment at most Colorado DMV offices, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Mornings on weekdays are typically shorter than afternoons or weekends. Some offices allow you to check the current wait time online before you go.

Key Takeaways

Visit any Colorado DMV office in person with your current license, proof of identity, and proof of residency dated within the last 60 days.
The DMV will photograph you at the office, so you do not need to bring a photo.
A replacement license costs $20 and is valid for five years from the date you receive it.
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days; you can drive with your receipt until it arrives.

Cost and how long it takes

A replacement Colorado driver's license costs $20. This is the standard fee whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. You pay at the DMV office when you submit your paperwork.

After you pay, the DMV will issue you a receipt. You can legally drive using that receipt while you wait for your new license to arrive by mail. The new license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during busy periods. If you need the license faster, ask the DMV clerk whether your location offers expedited service; some offices can print a temporary license on the spot for an additional fee, though this varies by location.

What counts as proof of identity

Colorado accepts several documents as proof of identity. A passport (U.S. or foreign), a birth certificate, a military ID, or a Social Security card all work. If you are using a birth certificate, it must be an official copy with a raised seal, not a photocopy. You only need one form of ID — you do not have to bring multiple documents.

If you do not have any of these, ask the DMV what alternatives they accept. Some offices will work with you if you bring a combination of documents like a Social Security card plus a utility bill, though the rules can vary slightly by location.

What counts as proof of residency

Proof of residency must show your current Colorado address and be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a property tax notice all work. The document must have your name and address on it.

If you recently moved and your old documents are outdated, bring the newest one you have plus a lease or rental agreement for your new address. If you live with someone else and the utility bill is in their name, bring that bill plus a signed letter from the person whose name is on it, stating that you live there. The DMV clerk can tell you exactly what they need if your situation is unusual.

If your license was lost or stolen

You do not need a police report to replace a lost or stolen license, but filing one is a good idea if you are concerned about identity theft. If you do have a report, bring it with you — it can speed up the process slightly. If you do not have one, you can still get a replacement by straightforward telling the DMV clerk that your license was lost or stolen.

When you report your license as stolen, the DMV will flag it in their system so that if someone tries to use it, it will be rejected. This does not prevent identity theft on its own, but it does prevent someone from using your old license number to get pulled over or to commit fraud in your name at a traffic stop.

Renewing versus replacing

Replacing and renewing are different processes. You replace a license when it is lost, stolen, damaged, or when you need a new photo. You renew a license when it is still in your possession but expiring soon. If your license is expiring and you want to renew it by mail instead of going to the DMV, you can do that — but if you need a new license now because yours is gone, you must go in person.

A replacement license is valid for five years from the date you receive it, the same as a renewed license. The expiration date will be printed on your new card.

What to expect at the DMV office

When you arrive, take a number or check in at the front desk. You will wait for your number to be called. When it is, go to the window and hand over your documents — your current license (if you have it), proof of identity, and proof of residency. The clerk will review them, ask you a few questions about your address and whether anything has changed, and then take your photo.

After your photo is taken, you will go to another window to pay the $20 fee. The clerk will give you a receipt and tell you when to expect your new license in the mail. Keep the receipt — it is your proof that you can drive legally while you wait. Some people take a photo of their receipt with their phone in case they get pulled over and need to show it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I do not have my current one?

Yes. You do not need your old license to get a replacement. Bring proof of identity and proof of residency instead. The DMV will look up your record in their system and issue you a new one.

What if I moved recently and my residency documents are old?

Bring your newest residency document plus a lease or utility bill for your new address. If the new address document is dated within 60 days, that is what matters. The DMV clerk can also accept a combination of documents if you explain your situation.

Can I get a temporary license to use right away?

Some Colorado DMV offices offer temporary licenses printed on the spot for an additional fee, but this varies by location. Ask the clerk when you arrive. If your office does not offer it, your receipt is valid to drive with until your new license arrives by mail.

How do I know which DMV office is closest to me?

The Colorado DMV website lists all office locations, hours, and current wait times. You can search by county or city. Any DMV office in Colorado can process your replacement — you do not have to go to the one in your county.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring your current license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and a document showing your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will issue a new license with your updated name.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.