Where to Replace Your Colorado Driver's License

You can replace your Colorado driver's license at any Department of Revenue Driver's License Office in the state. Colorado operates about 20 locations across the state, with offices in Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, and other major cities. You do not need to go to the office where you originally got your license — any location will process a replacement.

The fastest option is often your nearest office, but you can also check the Colorado Department of Revenue website to see wait times at different locations before you go. Some offices are consistently busier than others, and a 20-minute drive to a less-crowded location can save you an hour of waiting.

If you cannot visit an office in person, Colorado does not currently offer mail-in replacement for a lost or stolen license. You must appear in person with the documents listed below.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Colorado Department of Revenue Driver's License Office in person with a valid form of identification and proof of residency.
  • The replacement fee is $20 for a standard license and $30 for a Real ID-compliant license, paid at the time of your visit.
  • Your replacement license will be mailed to your Colorado address within 7 to 10 business days; you cannot take it with you the same day.
  • If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police or file a report with the Colorado Department of Revenue, though this is not required to get a replacement.
  • Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, as the office will need to verify your identity against state records.

Documents You Need to Bring

Bring one form of valid identification and one form of proof of your current Colorado address. If you do not have a current Colorado address on file, bring a document showing your new address.

Valid forms of identification include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, tribal ID, or a previous Colorado driver's license or ID card. If your license was lost or stolen and you do not have another form of ID, call the Driver's License Office before you go — they can sometimes work with you if you bring additional documents like a birth certificate and Social Security card.

Proof of Colorado residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you recently moved and do not have a document in your new address yet, bring a lease or purchase agreement for your new home.

Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return). The office will verify your number against federal records to confirm your identity.

The Replacement Process and Timeline

When you arrive at the office, check in at the front desk and take a number. You will wait until your number is called, then sit with a representative who will review your documents, take a new photo, and collect the replacement fee.

The entire process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the office is and whether your documents are in order. If something is missing or unclear, the representative will tell you what you need to bring back.

Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You will not receive a temporary license to use while you wait. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the office — ask the representative before you leave. This paper license is valid for 30 days and can be used as proof of your right to drive, though some businesses may not accept it.

The Replacement Fee

A standard Colorado driver's license replacement costs $20. If you want a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights after May 2025), the fee is $30. You pay at the time of your visit, and Colorado accepts cash, debit, and credit cards.

If you cannot afford the fee, Colorado does not have a fee waiver program for driver's license replacements. Some counties offer emergency information programs, but these vary by location — call your county social services office to ask.

If Your License Was Stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, you may want to report it. This is not required to get a replacement, but it creates a record in case someone tries to use your stolen license fraudulently.

You can file a report with your local police department (non-emergency line) or contact the Colorado Department of Revenue directly. The Department of Revenue can flag your old license number in their system so it cannot be used as a valid form of ID. Ask the representative at the Driver's License Office whether they recommend doing this in your situation.

If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by calling one of them — they will notify the others. This is free and lasts 90 days.

What Happens If You Cannot Visit an Office

Colorado does not offer remote replacement through mail or online. You must visit a Driver's License Office in person. If you are homebound or unable to travel, ask a family member or trusted person to go on your behalf — they can bring your documents and a signed statement from you authorizing them to act as your representative. Call the office ahead of time to confirm they will accept this arrangement.

If you live outside Colorado temporarily (for work, school, or military service), you can still replace your license by mail in some cases. Contact the Colorado Department of Revenue to ask about your specific situation.

Real ID Compliance and Your Replacement License

When you replace your license, you can choose a standard Colorado driver's license or a Real ID-compliant license. Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and are required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings after May 7, 2025.

If you choose Real ID, you will need to bring additional documents: a birth certificate (or passport), proof of Social Security number, and two forms of proof of Colorado residency. The fee is $30 instead of $20. If you are not sure whether you need Real ID, ask the representative at the office — they can explain the difference and help you decide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo from my old license for my replacement?

No. The office will take a new photo of you during your visit. You cannot bring a photo from home or use a digital photo. The photo must be taken at the time of replacement.

What if I moved out of Colorado but still have a Colorado license?

You should get a license in your new state. If you are moving back to Colorado and need a replacement, you can visit any Colorado Driver's License Office with your documents. If you are living out of state temporarily, contact the Colorado Department of Revenue to ask about your options.

How long is a replacement license valid?

A standard Colorado driver's license is valid for 10 years from the date it is issued. A Real ID license is also valid for 10 years. Your replacement license will have a new expiration date printed on it.

What if my documents are from a different name than what is on my old license?

Bring documents showing your legal name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The office will need to see the original or a certified copy. If your name has changed, tell the representative when you check in so they can process the name change at the same time as your replacement.

Can I get a replacement license the same day?

No. Colorado mails all replacement licenses. You cannot take your new license with you when you leave the office. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, request the temporary paper license at the time of your visit.