Get a replacement license at your local DMV office or online
Colorado lets you replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license in two ways: in person at a Department of Revenue office or online through the state's website. The online route is faster if your license is straightforward worn out or you need a duplicate for a second copy — you pay the fee, upload a photo, and receive your new license by mail in about two weeks. If your license was lost or stolen, you must go in person to report it and get a replacement, which takes about 30 minutes at the office.
You will need to bring specific documents depending on which route you choose. For an in-person replacement, bring your Social Security number (or a document showing it), proof of Colorado residency, and your current license if you still have it. For online replacement, you upload a digital photo and pay the fee through the website — no office visit required.
Key Takeaways
- Online replacement works only if your license is damaged, expired, or you want a duplicate — not if it was lost or stolen.
- In-person replacement at a Department of Revenue office takes about 30 minutes and is required if your license was lost or stolen.
- You need proof of Colorado residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement) and your Social Security number for either method.
- Online replacement costs $20 and takes about two weeks; in-person replacement costs $20 and you receive your license when ready or by mail depending on the office.
- Some offices offer walk-in service, but calling ahead to check wait times can save you a trip.
Replacing your license online through the Colorado DMV website
Visit the Colorado Department of Revenue website and navigate to the driver's license section. Look for the option to order a duplicate or replacement license. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will confirm your current license information on file.
Upload a digital photo that meets Colorado's requirements: a color photo of your face, taken within the last six months, against a plain background. The photo must show your face clearly and be at least 2 inches by 2 inches. If you do not have a digital photo ready, some offices allow you to take one at a kiosk for a small fee, but the online route requires you to have it before you start.
Pay the $20 replacement fee using a credit or debit card. Colorado will mail your new license to the address on file. Delivery typically takes 10 to 14 business days. You can use your old license until the new one arrives. This method works only if your license is damaged, expired, or you want a second copy — not if it was lost or stolen.
Replacing your license in person at a Department of Revenue office
Find the Department of Revenue office nearest you using the state's office locator on their website. Most Colorado counties have at least one office, and larger cities have multiple locations. Call ahead to ask about wait times and whether the office accepts walk-ins or requires an appointment. Some offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis; others use an online appointment system.
Bring your Social Security number (written down or on a document), proof of Colorado residency, and your current license if you still have it. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you lost your license and do not have it, bring a second form of ID such as a passport or state ID card.
Tell the staff member whether you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license. If your license was lost or stolen, the office will flag it in the system so it cannot be used. You will pay $20 for the replacement. Some offices issue a temporary paper license on the spot; others mail the new license to you within 7 to 10 business days. Ask which applies at your location when you arrive.
What documents you need for each method
| Requirement | Online Replacement | In-Person Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Driver's license number | Yes | Not required if lost |
| Social Security number | Last 4 digits | Full number or document |
| Proof of Colorado residency | No | Yes (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) |
| Digital photo | Yes | No (office takes photo) |
| Current license | Not required | Helpful but not required |
| Cost | $20 | $20 |
| Time to receive | 10–14 business days by mail | Same day (paper) or 7–10 days (mailed) |
If your license was lost or stolen
You must replace a lost or stolen license in person at a Department of Revenue office. The office will report the license as invalid in the state system so it cannot be misused. Bring proof of Colorado residency, your Social Security number, and a second form of ID if you do not have your current license. Some offices ask you to sign a statement confirming the license was lost or stolen.
If you believe your license was stolen and are concerned about identity theft, you may also want to place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and monitor your credit report. This is separate from the license replacement process but protects you if someone tries to open accounts in your name.
Renewing versus replacing: which one do you need
A replacement is what you need if your license is lost, stolen, damaged, or you want a duplicate copy. You keep the same license number and expiration date. A renewal is what you need when your license is about to expire or has expired. Renewals can be done online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation.
If your license is expired and damaged, you may be able to renew and replace at the same time. Check the Colorado DMV website or call your local office to confirm whether you can handle both in a single transaction. If your license expired more than five years ago, you will likely need to take a new written test and vision test in person, which requires an in-person visit regardless.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement license in Colorado?
Online replacement takes 10 to 14 business days by mail. In-person replacement at an office can give you a temporary paper license the same day, or your mailed license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. Call your local office to ask which option they offer.
Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license?
Yes, if you received a temporary paper license at the office. If you ordered online or are waiting for a mailed license, you can drive using your old license until the new one arrives, as long as your old license is not expired.
What if I do not have proof of Colorado residency?
You must have a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current Colorado address. If you just moved and do not have a utility bill or lease yet, ask the office whether a bank statement, government mail, or lease agreement works. Some offices accept alternative documents — call ahead to ask.
Do I need an appointment at the Department of Revenue office?
It depends on the office. Some accept walk-ins; others require appointments. Check the Colorado DMV website for your nearest office and call to ask their policy. Calling ahead also lets you know the current wait time.
What if my new license arrives damaged or with wrong information?
Contact the Department of Revenue office that issued it or call their main line. They can issue a corrected replacement at no additional charge if the error was made by the state. Bring the damaged license and proof of the error when you visit.