Where to go and what you need
To replace a lost driver's license in Colorado, you go to your local Department of Revenue office in person. You cannot do this by mail or online. You will need to bring your Social Security number, proof of Colorado residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and payment. The fee is $20.50 for a standard replacement license.
If you do not have proof of residency, you can bring two documents from an alternate list — things like a vehicle registration, insurance policy, or tax return. The Department of Revenue website lists all acceptable documents. Bring the originals; copies are not accepted.
You do not need to bring the old license itself, since it is lost. You do not need to file a police report unless you believe the license was stolen rather than straightforward misplaced, though a report can help if someone uses your license fraudulently.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Department of Revenue office in person; there is no online or mail option for a lost license replacement.
- Bring your Social Security number, one proof of Colorado residency dated within 90 days, and $20.50.
- The replacement license is mailed to your address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
- If you need to drive before the replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the same visit.
Finding your nearest Department of Revenue office
Colorado has 22 Department of Revenue driver's license offices across the state. The main office is in Denver at 1881 Pierce Street, but there are branches in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the Colorado Department of Revenue website under "Office Locations."
Hours vary by location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, but some have extended evening hours one or two days per week. A few offices are open Saturday mornings. Check the specific office's hours before you go, because wait times can be long during peak hours.
You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now offer online scheduling. If your local office offers it, scheduling ahead can cut your wait time significantly. Check when you look up the office location.
What happens during your visit
When you arrive, you will check in and take a number. A staff member will review your documents, confirm your identity, and take a new photo for your license. The whole process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is.
You will be asked to sign a form confirming the license is lost. You will also confirm your address and any other information on file. If any of your personal details have changed since your last license — name, address, height, or corrective lenses — tell the staff member now so they can update your record.
After you pay the $20.50 fee, your replacement license will be mailed to the address on file. You will receive a receipt showing your process was processed. Keep this receipt until your new license arrives.
Getting a temporary license to drive now
If you need to drive before your replacement license arrives, ask for a temporary paper license at the same visit. This is a printed document that serves as a valid license for driving and identification purposes. It is valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent replacement.
The temporary license is issued on the spot at no extra cost. You do not need to request it in advance. straightforward ask the staff member before you leave the office. Write down the expiration date so you know when you need to stop using it.
The temporary license is not a physical card, so keep it in a safe place. If you lose it before your permanent license arrives, you will need to return to the office and request another one.
Timeline for your replacement to arrive
Your new license is mailed to your address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Mail delivery times can vary depending on where you live and current postal service conditions. If you have moved recently, make sure your address was updated at the Department of Revenue office during your visit.
If your license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the Department of Revenue to confirm the mailing address on file. You can call the main office or visit your local office again. Do not assume it is lost; postal delays happen, especially during busy seasons.
Updating your address at the same time
If you have moved since your last license was issued, you can update your address during your replacement visit. Bring proof of your new Colorado address — the same documents accepted for residency proof work here. The address change is processed at the same time as your replacement, and your new license will be mailed to your updated address.
If you move after you submit your replacement process, contact the Department of Revenue when ready to update your mailing address. You can call or visit an office in person. Providing the correct address ensures your license reaches you.
If your license was stolen, not just lost
If you believe your license was stolen rather than misplaced, you can file a report with local police. This creates a record in case someone uses your license fraudulently. You do not need a police report to replace your license at the Department of Revenue, but having one on file protects you if the lost license is used for identity theft.
After you file a police report, bring the report number or a copy to the Department of Revenue office when you explore for your replacement. The staff can note in your file that the license was reported stolen. This flag can help if someone tries to use the old license.
If you discover fraudulent activity using your lost license, contact the Colorado Attorney General's office and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus. These steps are separate from replacing your license but are important if identity theft is involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license online or by mail?
No. Colorado requires you to appear in person at a Department of Revenue office to replace a lost license. You must bring original documents and have a new photo taken. There is no online or mail option for this type of replacement.
What if I do not have proof of residency?
You can bring two documents from the alternate list instead of one current utility bill or lease. Acceptable documents include a vehicle registration, insurance policy, tax return, or bank statement. The Department of Revenue website lists all options. At least one document should show your current address.
Do I need a police report to replace my lost license?
No. A police report is not required to replace your license. You only need it if you believe the license was stolen and want to create a record for fraud protection. If you file a report, bring the report number to your replacement visit.
How much does a replacement license cost?
The fee is $20.50. This covers the replacement card and processing. The temporary paper license, if you request one, is issued at no extra cost. Payment is made at the time of your visit.
What if I moved and my address is not current at the Department of Revenue?
Tell the staff member during your replacement visit, and they will update your address. Bring proof of your new Colorado address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days. Your replacement license will be mailed to the updated address.