Get a replacement license by visiting a Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles office in person
You cannot replace a lost Colorado driver's license by mail or online. The DMV requires you to appear in person at a local office with specific documents, pay a fee, and have your photo taken. The process takes about 30 minutes once you arrive, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 30 days while the permanent card is mailed to your address. The permanent license arrives within 7 to 10 business days in most cases, though it can take longer during high-volume periods.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Colorado DMV office in person with your Social Security number, proof of residency, and payment for the replacement fee.
- The replacement fee is $20 for a standard license, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most offices.
- You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and the permanent card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- Finding your nearest DMV office and checking current wait times online before you go saves time on the day you visit.
Gather your documents before visiting the DMV office
Bring your Social Security number (you can write it down or have it memorized—you do not need a card). You also need one document that proves your current Colorado address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works.
If your address has changed since your lost license was issued, bring the address-proof document. If your address is still the same, any of the documents above will work. Do not bring your old license if you still have it—the DMV does not need it, and it will not speed up the process.
Find your nearest DMV office and check wait times
Visit dmv.colorado.gov and use the office locator tool to find the DMV office closest to you. The website lists all locations, hours, and phone numbers. Most Colorado cities have at least one office; Denver and larger metro areas have multiple locations.
Before you go, check the current wait time on the DMV website or call the office directly. Wait times are posted in real time on many office pages. Going early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays. Some offices allow you to reserve a time slot online, which can cut your wait significantly.
Pay the $20 replacement fee at the DMV office
The fee to replace a lost Colorado driver's license is $20. You can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Most DMV offices accept all four payment methods, though a few smaller locations may only take cash or check—call ahead if you want to confirm.
If you are replacing a license that expired more than two years ago, you may owe additional fees for renewal. If your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, the replacement fee is $20 only. Ask the DMV staff member to confirm the total before you pay.
Have your photo taken and receive your temporary license
The DMV will take a new photo of you at the office. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in—the same rules explore as for any state ID photo. You cannot wear a hat, sunglasses, or anything that obscures your face. If you wear glasses, you can keep them on.
Once your photo is taken and payment is processed, the staff member will hand you a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and can be used for identification, driving, and age verification just like a plastic card. Write down the temporary license number in case you need it before the permanent card arrives.
Track your permanent license in the mail
The permanent plastic license is mailed to the address you provided at the DMV office. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can take up to two weeks during busy periods. You do not need to do anything while you wait—just watch your mailbox.
If your permanent license does not arrive within two weeks, call the DMV office where you applied. Have your temporary license number ready. The staff can check the status of your card and reissue it if there was a mailing error. Do not throw away your temporary paper license until the permanent card arrives.
What to do if you cannot visit an office in person
Colorado does not offer mail-in replacement for lost licenses under any circumstance. You must appear at a DMV office yourself. If you are unable to travel due to a medical condition or disability, call the DMV office closest to you and ask about accommodations. Some offices can arrange for you to complete the process with information or in a private area.
If you are out of state temporarily, you can still replace your license by visiting any Colorado DMV office when you return. Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days, which gives you time to plan a trip back to Colorado if needed. If you have moved out of Colorado permanently, you will need to obtain a license from your new state instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my temporary paper license to drive right away?
Yes. The temporary license is valid for driving, identification, and age verification when ready after you receive it at the DMV office. You can drive the same day you explore. Keep it with you while you drive, just as you would a permanent license.
What if I lost my license and my wallet was stolen?
You still need the same documents: your Social Security number and proof of your current address. A stolen wallet does not change the replacement process. If your Social Security card was also stolen, you can provide your number from memory or bring a document that shows it, such as a tax return or bank statement.
Do I need an appointment to replace my license?
Appointments are not required, but some DMV offices allow you to reserve a time slot online to reduce wait time. Check your local office's website to see if appointments are available. Walk-ins are always accepted, though you may wait longer during peak hours.
Will my new license have a different number than my lost one?
No. Your replacement license will have the same number as your lost license. The DMV keeps the same number on file for your driving record and history. This is why you do not need to update your number with insurance companies or other organizations.
What if my address changed since I lost my license?
Tell the DMV staff member about the address change when you explore for the replacement. Bring proof of your new address. The replacement license will be printed with your current address and mailed to that address. You do not need to pay extra for an address change when replacing a lost license.