How to Replace Your Colorado Driver's License

What you need to do to replace a Colorado driver's license

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Colorado driver's license, you must visit a Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person with proof of identity and residency. You'll pay a replacement fee (currently $20 for a standard license), fill out an process, and have your photo taken on the spot. Most people receive their new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days, though you can request a temporary paper license to use when ready.

Colorado does not allow online or mail-in replacement for lost or stolen licenses — the in-person visit is required. If your license is damaged but still readable, you may be able to renew it by mail during your regular renewal cycle, but a replacement due to loss or theft requires the office visit.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a Colorado DMV office in person with a valid ID and proof of Colorado residency to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license.
The replacement fee is $20 for a standard driver's license, and you'll have your photo taken at the office.
Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; ask for a temporary paper license if you need to drive before it arrives.
If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police and consider placing a fraud alert with the Colorado Attorney General's office.
Colorado DMV offices operate by appointment in most locations, so book ahead rather than walking in.

Documents and proof you'll need to bring

Bring one form of primary identification — a passport, passport card, military ID, or tribal ID. If you don't have one of those, you can use two secondary forms of ID, such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, or school ID, but primary ID is faster.

You'll also need proof of Colorado residency dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or insurance policy with your current Colorado address. A piece of mail from a government agency (like a tax notice or court document) also works. Bring the original or a certified copy — a photo or screenshot usually won't be accepted.

If you've changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

How to schedule and complete your DMV visit

Visit dmv.colorado.gov and click "Schedule an Appointment" to book a time slot at a DMV office near you. Most Colorado counties operate by appointment only, and walk-ins are typically not accepted. Choose a location, select your service (driver's license replacement), and pick a date and time that works for you. You'll receive a confirmation email with your appointment details.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents. At the office, you'll complete Form DL-44 (the driver's license process), verify your information, have your photo taken, and pay the $20 fee. The staff will give you a receipt and explain when your license will arrive. Ask for a temporary paper license at this time if you need to drive before your permanent license comes in the mail.

The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you're replacing a license that was suspended or revoked, the DMV will check your driving record and may require additional steps before issuing a new one.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, consider reporting it to your local police department. You don't need a police report to replace the license itself, but having one on file can protect you if someone tries to use your license number for fraud. Keep the report number for your records.

You can also contact the Colorado Attorney General's Consumer Protection Section at 303-866-5189 to report identity theft or fraud. If you're concerned about your personal information being misused, you may want to place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) — this is free and alerts creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

Temporary paper license and driving while you wait

When you complete your replacement visit, ask the DMV staff for a temporary paper license. This document allows you to drive legally while your permanent license is in the mail. The temporary is valid for 30 days, which is longer than the typical 7 to 10 day delivery window, so you should have your permanent license before the temporary expires.

If your permanent license doesn't arrive within 10 business days, contact the DMV office where you applied. Delays can happen, especially during busy periods, but the office can check the status and reissue if needed.

Cost and payment methods

The replacement fee for a standard Colorado driver's license is $20. If you're replacing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is higher — check the current rate on dmv.colorado.gov. The DMV office accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.

If you're a Colorado resident over 65, you may be may have access to to a reduced fee or waiver on certain services — ask the staff when you arrive. Military members on active duty may also may have access to for fee reductions.

If you need a REAL ID-compliant license

Colorado's standard driver's license is not REAL ID compliant, meaning it won't be accepted for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building after May 7, 2025. If you need a REAL ID license, you can request one during your replacement visit by asking for a "REAL ID driver's license."

The REAL ID version costs $5 more ($25 total) and requires the same documents as a standard replacement, plus one additional document proving your Social Security number — typically your Social Security card or a tax return. The REAL ID license looks similar to a standard license but has a gold star in the upper right corner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Colorado requires an in-person visit to a DMV office for license replacement due to loss, theft, or damage. You must bring original documents and have a new photo taken. Renewals of undamaged licenses can sometimes be done by mail, but replacements cannot.

How long does it take to get my new license?

Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can drive when ready using the temporary paper license the DMV gives you at your appointment. If your license doesn't arrive within 10 days, contact the DMV office to check the status.

What if I don't have a passport or primary ID?

You can use two secondary forms of ID instead, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card. Both must be originals or certified copies. A utility bill or lease agreement can serve as proof of residency. The DMV staff can tell you on the phone whether your specific documents will work.

Do I need a police report to replace a stolen license?

No. You can replace a stolen license without a police report. However, filing a report with your local police department and the Colorado Attorney General's office can help protect you if someone tries to use your license number for fraud.

Can I get a REAL ID license at the same time as my replacement?

Yes. Tell the DMV staff you want a REAL ID-compliant license when you explore for your replacement. It costs $5 more and requires one additional document proving your Social Security number, but you can complete everything in one visit.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.