What you need to do to replace a Colorado driver license

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Colorado driver license, you must visit a Department of Revenue office in person with proof of identity and residency. Colorado does not accept mail-in or online replacements for lost or stolen licenses. You will pay a fee (currently $20 for a standard replacement), receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and the permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

If your license was stolen, you should also report the theft to local police and request a report number — some offices ask for this, though it is not always required. If your license was damaged but you still have it, bring the card itself; the office will take it and issue the replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Department of Revenue office in person with a valid ID and proof of Colorado residency to replace your license.
  • The replacement fee is $20, and you receive a temporary paper license when ready while your permanent card is mailed to you.
  • Your new permanent license arrives in 7 to 10 business days at the address on file with the Department of Revenue.
  • If your license was stolen, obtain a police report number to bring with you, though some offices do not require it.
  • You cannot replace a lost or stolen license by mail or online in Colorado.

What documents to bring to the Department of Revenue office

Bring one form of government-issued photo ID (such as a passport, military ID, or tribal ID) and one document proving your current Colorado address. Acceptable address proofs 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 you do not have your Social Security number memorized, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it. You will also need to know your current address and any address changes since your license was issued.

Finding the nearest Department of Revenue office

Colorado has 24 Department of Revenue driver license offices across the state. The main office is in Denver, but you can visit any location regardless of where you live. Find the office nearest you and its hours on the Colorado Department of Revenue website under "Driver License Services" or by calling 303-205-5613.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices in smaller towns typically have shorter waits than Denver or Colorado Springs locations. Many offices do not take appointments, so you may wait 30 minutes to two hours depending on the day and time you visit.

What happens when you arrive at the office

Tell the staff member at the counter that you need a replacement license. Hand over your ID and proof of residency. The staff member will verify your information in the system, confirm the reason for replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged), and take your photo if your current license photo is more than five years old.

You will then pay the $20 fee by cash, debit card, or credit card. The office will issue you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. This temporary license has the same legal weight as a plastic card for driving, identification, and age verification. Keep it with you until your permanent license arrives.

When your new license will arrive

The Department of Revenue mails your new license to the address on file in their system. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you visit the office. If you have moved since your last license renewal and did not update your address before visiting, tell the staff member so they can correct it before mailing your new card.

If your new license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the Department of Revenue at 303-205-5613 to check the status. Provide your driver license number or date of birth so they can look up your replacement order.

Cost and payment methods

A replacement Colorado driver license costs $20. The Department of Revenue accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at all offices. Some smaller offices may have limited card processing, so bringing cash is safest if you are unsure.

The $20 fee covers the replacement card only. If you also need to update your address, change your name, or renew your license early, those services may have separate fees or require a separate transaction. Ask the staff member whether your visit covers only the replacement or whether you need additional services.

If your license was stolen and you are concerned about fraud

A stolen driver license can be used to open accounts or commit identity theft in your name. After you replace your license, monitor your credit report for suspicious activity. You can order a free credit report from each of the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once per year at annualcreditreport.com.

If you see fraudulent accounts or charges, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. You can also place a fraud alert on your credit file by contacting one of the three bureaus; they will notify the others. A fraud alert makes it harder for someone to open new accounts in your name without your permission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license by mail if I live out of state?

No. Colorado requires all license replacements to be done in person at a Department of Revenue office. If you live outside Colorado, you will need to visit an office during a trip back to the state, or you may need to explore for a license in your current state of residence instead.

What if I lost my license and do not have a police report?

You do not need a police report to replace a lost license. A report is helpful if you are concerned about fraud, but the Department of Revenue will issue a replacement based on your ID and proof of residency alone. You can file a police report before or after you replace your license.

How long is the temporary paper license good for?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days. It works for driving, identification, and age verification just like a plastic license. If your permanent card has not arrived by day 30, contact the Department of Revenue to check the status or request a new temporary license.

What if my address changed since I got my current license?

Tell the staff member at the office that your address has changed. They will update it in the system before mailing your new license. Your replacement card will be sent to your current address, not the old one on file.

Can I get a Real ID compliant license when I replace my lost license?

Yes. When you visit the office, ask if you want your replacement to be a Real ID license. You will need to bring additional documents (such as a birth certificate and proof of Social Security number) and may pay an extra fee. Ask the staff member what documents you need before your visit if you want a Real ID license.