Get a replacement license at your local Colorado DMV office with your ID and a completed form

Colorado replaces lost driver's licenses at any Division of Motor Vehicles office. You'll need to bring a valid ID (passport, military ID, or state ID card), fill out form DL-44, pay the replacement fee, and have your photo taken. The process takes about 30 minutes if you walk in during a quiet time, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Your replacement license will have the same number as your original, so your driving record stays attached to it. Colorado mails the physical card to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive legally while you wait — the DMV gives you a paper receipt that serves as a temporary license.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a valid government ID and proof of your current address to any Colorado DMV office to start the replacement process.
  • The replacement fee is $20 for a standard license, though the cost varies slightly if you need a REAL ID-compliant card.
  • You receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for driving until your replacement card arrives by mail.
  • Your new license keeps the same number as your lost one, so your driving record and any points remain unchanged.
  • Processing time is 7 to 10 business days for mail delivery, but you can check your process status online through the Colorado DMV website.

What documents and ID you need to bring

Colorado requires one valid government-issued photo ID. A U.S. passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. If you don't have any of these, you can bring a combination of documents — a birth certificate plus a Social Security card, or a birth certificate plus a utility bill with your current address.

You also need proof of your current Colorado address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work. If your address on file at the DMV is still correct, you may not need this, but bringing it prevents delays.

The replacement fee and payment methods

A standard replacement license costs $20 in Colorado. If you want a REAL ID-compliant card (required for federal buildings and flights), the fee is $35. You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card at any DMV office.

Some Colorado DMV locations accept online payments before you visit, which can speed up your visit. Check the DMV website for your local office to see if this option is available in your area.

How to find your nearest DMV office and check wait times

Colorado has DMV offices in most counties. The main Denver office is at 405 South Ninth Street, but you can visit any location statewide — your replacement license works the same regardless of which office you use. The Colorado DMV website has a full list of office addresses, hours, and phone numbers.

Some offices let you check current wait times online before you go. If your local office is consistently busy, visiting early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon often means shorter waits. Avoid lunch hours and the end of the month, when offices are typically crowded.

What happens if you need to drive before your replacement arrives

The DMV gives you a paper temporary license at the time you explore. This receipt is valid for driving in Colorado and is recognized by law enforcement. Keep it with you while you drive — it serves the same legal purpose as your plastic license card.

If you're pulled over while using the temporary receipt, show it along with your vehicle registration. Police understand that replacements take time. The temporary is valid for the full 7 to 10 business days it takes for your new card to arrive.

Replacing a license if you've moved out of state

If you've moved to another state, you cannot renew or replace your Colorado license by mail or online. You'll need to get a driver's license in your new state instead. Colorado will not issue a replacement to an out-of-state address.

If you're temporarily out of state but still a Colorado resident, you can ask a family member or friend to pick up your replacement at the DMV office on your behalf. You'll need to sign a power of attorney form and provide them with a copy of your ID. Call your local DMV office to confirm they accept this arrangement.

Checking the status of your replacement license

You can track your replacement license online through the Colorado DMV website. You'll need your driver's license number and date of birth. The status page shows whether your card has been mailed and gives an estimated delivery date.

If your replacement hasn't arrived within 12 business days, contact the DMV office where you applied. Occasionally cards are lost in the mail, and the DMV can reissue it. Keep the temporary receipt you received at the office — you'll need it to prove you already paid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Colorado requires you to appear in person at a DMV office to have your photo taken for a replacement license. You cannot complete this process remotely, even if you've moved out of state.

What if I lost my license and my vehicle registration at the same time?

Handle them separately. Replace your license at the DMV using the steps above. For your vehicle registration, visit the same DMV office or go online to the Colorado DMV website to request a duplicate registration card. Both can be done in one trip if you visit an office that handles both services.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

Walk-ins are accepted at all Colorado DMV offices, though some locations offer online appointment scheduling to reduce wait times. Check your local office's website to see if appointments are available. Walk-ins are still processed, but appointments typically move faster.

Will my replacement license have a different number?

No. Your replacement keeps the same license number as your original. Your driving record, points, and any restrictions stay attached to that number. The only thing that changes is the physical card itself.

What if I find my original license after I get the replacement?

You can keep both — Colorado doesn't require you to destroy the original. However, only one is valid for driving. If you're pulled over, show the newer card. If you want to turn in the old one, any DMV office will accept it, but it's not required.