Get a replacement driver's license through the Colorado Department of Revenue
You can replace your Colorado driver's license by visiting a local Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person, by mail, or through an online renewal if you meet certain conditions. The fastest route is an in-person visit, which takes about 15 minutes at the counter. Mail and online options take longer but work if your license is still valid or only recently expired.
The method you choose depends on why you need a replacement. If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you must go in person. If it expired and you want a new one, you can renew by mail or online. If you need to update your photo or address, an in-person visit is required.
Key Takeaways
- In-person replacement at a DMV office is the fastest option and takes about 15 minutes; you will need your Social Security number, proof of residency, and payment.
- Mail-in replacement works only if your license is still valid or expired less than one year ago, and takes two to three weeks.
- Online renewal is available only if your license is valid and you do not need a new photo or address change.
- Colorado charges $20 for a replacement license if your current one is lost or stolen, or $25 if you are renewing an expired one.
- You will need to bring original documents or certified copies; a photocopy alone will not be accepted.
What documents you need to bring in person
Bring your Social Security number (written down or memorized), one form of proof of residency, and payment. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A phone bill or credit card statement does not count.
If you do not have your current license, bring a second form of ID such as a passport, military ID, or tribal ID. If your license was stolen, you do not need to report it to police first, but having a police report number speeds up the process. Bring that number if you have it.
Do not bring a photocopy of your documents. The DMV requires originals or certified copies. If you are under 21, bring your original birth certificate or certified copy as well.
How to replace your license in person at a DMV office
Step 1: Find your nearest DMV office. Go to the Colorado Department of Revenue website and use the office locator tool. Enter your city or ZIP code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though some have extended hours. A few offices open on Saturday mornings.
Step 2: Arrive with your documents. Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and payment ($20 for a replacement, $25 for a renewal). Bring your current license if you still have it. If you do not, bring a second form of ID.
Step 3: Take a number and wait. Most DMV offices use a ticket system. Take a number at the entrance and wait for your number to be called. Wait times vary by location and time of day; early morning and mid-week visits are usually faster.
Step 4: Complete the process at the counter. The DMV staff will hand you form DL-44 (process for a Colorado Driver's License). Fill it out with your current information. If your address has changed, update it now. The staff can help you if you have questions.
Step 5: Provide your documents and pay. Hand over your proof of residency and ID. Pay with cash, debit card, or credit card. The staff will scan your documents and take your photo.
Step 6: Receive your temporary license. You will get a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
How to replace your license by mail
Mail-in replacement works only if your current license is still valid or expired less than one year ago. If your license expired more than one year ago, you must go in person.
Step 1: read and print the form. Go to the Colorado Department of Revenue website and read form DL-44. Print it and fill it out completely. Include your current address and any changes since your license was issued.
Step 2: Gather your documents. Make a photocopy of your current driver's license (both sides). Make a photocopy of your proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). Do not send originals.
Step 3: Write a check or money order. Make it payable to "Colorado Department of Revenue" for $25 (renewal) or $20 (replacement if lost or stolen). Do not send cash.
Step 4: Mail everything to the address on the form. Include the completed form, photocopies of your license and proof of residency, and your payment. Mail it to the address listed in the form instructions. Keep a copy for your records.
Step 5: Wait for your new license. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your envelope. Your new plastic license will arrive by mail. If you do not receive it within four weeks, contact the DMV to check the status.
How to renew your license online
Online renewal is available only if your current license is valid (not expired) and you do not need a new photo or address change. If your license expired, you must use mail or in-person replacement.
Step 1: Go to the Colorado DMV website. Visit the Division of Motor Vehicles page and look for the online renewal option. You will need your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Step 2: Enter your information and review. The system will pull up your current license details. Review them for accuracy. If anything is wrong, stop and go in person instead—online renewal cannot fix errors.
Step 3: Pay online. Pay the renewal fee ($25) with a debit or credit card. You will receive a confirmation number when ready.
Step 4: Wait for your new license. Your renewed license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license via email that you can print and carry until the plastic license arrives.
What happens if your license was stolen or lost
If your license was stolen, you do not need to report it to police before replacing it, but having a police report number will speed up the process. If you have a report number, bring it with you or include it in your mail-in process.
You can replace a lost or stolen license in person or by mail. The fee is $20. You cannot renew online if your license was lost or stolen—you must go in person or mail in your process.
If you are concerned about identity theft, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at no cost. This makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my temporary paper license as ID?
Yes, your temporary paper license is valid ID for 30 days. You can use it to drive, board a plane, or show as identification. After 30 days, you must have your permanent plastic license or another form of ID.
What if my address changed since I got my current license?
You can update your address during replacement. If you go in person, tell the staff at the counter and they will update it on form DL-44. If you mail in your process, write your new address on the form. Online renewal cannot change your address—you must go in person for that.
How long does a replacement license take?
In-person replacement gives you a temporary license when ready and a permanent one in 7 to 10 business days. Mail-in takes two to three weeks. Online renewal takes 7 to 10 business days. Times may be longer during high-volume periods.
Do I need an appointment at the DMV?
Most Colorado DMV offices do not require appointments. You take a number and wait. However, some offices now offer online appointment scheduling. Check your local office's website to see if appointments are available in your area.
What if I moved out of state but still have a Colorado license?
You should get a license in your new state. If you still need a Colorado replacement before you move, you can go in person or mail in your process. After you move, you will need to get a license in your new state within the timeframe that state requires.