Colorado Issues a Replacement License at the DMV or Online

To replace a lost driver's license in Colorado, you have two paths: order a replacement online through the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website, or visit a DMV office in person. The online route is faster and costs less, but works only if your license hasn't expired and you haven't changed your address or name since it was issued. If either of those conditions applies, you must go to a DMV office.

Colorado charges $20 for a replacement license ordered online and $23.50 if you replace it at an office. The online process typically takes 7 to 10 business days for delivery by mail. In-person replacements are usually ready the same day or within a few days, depending on the office's workload.

Key Takeaways

  • Order a replacement online at dmv.colorado.gov if your license hasn't expired and your address and name are current; it costs $20 and takes 7 to 10 business days.
  • Visit a DMV office in person if your license has expired, you've moved, or your name has changed; bring your Social Security number and proof of residency.
  • Colorado DMV offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations accept walk-ins while others require appointments; check your local office's hours before you go.
  • You do not need to report the lost license to police unless you suspect identity theft or fraud.

Ordering a Replacement Online Through Colorado DMV

Start at the Colorado DMV website and select "Replace a Lost or Stolen Driver's License." You'll need your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and confirm that your license is still valid and your information hasn't changed.

Once you complete the online form and pay the $20 fee by credit or debit card, Colorado mails your replacement to the address on file. If you've moved since your license was issued, you cannot use the online method—you must visit an office to update your address at the same time.

Check the status of your replacement by logging into your DMV account online. You can also call the Colorado DMV at 303-205-5600 if you have questions about your order.

Visiting a Colorado DMV Office for an In-Person Replacement

If you need to replace your license in person, bring your Social Security number and one document that proves your current address. Acceptable proof of residency includes a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. You'll also need to provide your date of birth.

Colorado has DMV offices in Denver, Colorado Springs, Fort Collins, Pueblo, and several other cities. Visit the DMV website to find the office nearest you and check whether it accepts walk-ins or requires an appointment. Many offices now use an online appointment system; if appointments are full, you may be able to add yourself to a waitlist.

Bring your payment method—cash, check, or card—because the $23.50 fee is due when you submit your process. Most offices issue your replacement the same day, though some may mail it to you depending on their processing capacity.

What to Do If Your License Has Expired

An expired license cannot be replaced online. You must visit a DMV office and renew your license at the same time you request a replacement. Renewal requires passing an eye test and paying both the replacement fee ($23.50) and the renewal fee, which varies by the length of your renewal period.

Bring the same documents you would for an in-person replacement: proof of residency and your Social Security number. The office will take a new photo and issue your renewed, replaced license on the spot or by mail, depending on the office's procedures.

Replacing Your License If You've Changed Your Name or Address

If you've moved since your license was issued, you cannot order a replacement online. Visit a DMV office with proof of your new address and your Social Security number. The office will update your address and issue your replacement at the same time.

If you've changed your name—through marriage, divorce, or legal petition—bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will update your name in the system and issue your replacement license with the new name.

Whether You Need to Report a Lost License to Police

You do not need to file a police report straightforward because your license is lost. However, if you believe your license was stolen or you suspect someone might use it for fraud or identity theft, contact your local police department and file a report. Keep a copy of the report number for your records.

If you're concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and monitor your credit report for unauthorized accounts. These steps are separate from replacing your license but may protect you if your lost license is misused.

How Long a Colorado Replacement License Takes

Online replacements take 7 to 10 business days from the date you submit your order. In-person replacements are usually ready the same day you explore, though some offices may mail yours instead. Call your local DMV office if you need your replacement faster than the standard timeline.

If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, your old license is still valid proof of identity even though it's lost. Law enforcement recognizes that you've reported it missing and ordered a replacement. If you're stopped, explain that you've lost your physical license and have ordered a replacement; most officers will accept this explanation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?

Colorado does not issue temporary paper licenses. If you need to drive when ready, your old license remains valid for identification purposes even though you've lost the physical card. If you're concerned about driving without the card in your possession, visit a DMV office and ask about your options.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can still order a replacement online or visit a Colorado DMV office, regardless of where you lost it. If you're out of state and need a replacement quickly, order online and have it mailed to an address where you'll be staying, or visit a DMV office when you return to Colorado.

Do I need to notify my insurance company that my license is lost?

No. Your insurance policy is tied to your driver's license number, which doesn't change when you replace a lost card. You do not need to contact your insurance company unless you've also changed your address or vehicle information.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

If your replacement is mailed to you, only the person at that address can receive it. If you ordered it to be picked up at a DMV office, call the office to ask whether they allow someone else to collect it on your behalf; policies vary by location.

What if I find my lost license after I've ordered a replacement?

Your old license becomes invalid once your replacement is issued. Destroy the old one or return it to a DMV office. Do not attempt to use both licenses.