How Long Does It Take to Get a Replacement Driver License in Colorado?

Misplacing your driver’s license isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it can throw a real wrench into your day-to-day life here in Colorado. Whether you’re pulled over during a routine traffic stop, trying to board a flight, or even just picking up a package, not having a valid license can complicate things fast.

At Anshor, we know how important it is for you to stay on the right side of the law—and to keep your life moving without unnecessary roadblocks. That’s why understanding how long it takes to get a replacement license (and how to speed things up) matters more than you might think.

Quick Answer: Driver License Timeline in Colorado

In Colorado, you can expect your replacement driver’s license to arrive within 10 to 14 business days after applying online or in person. A temporary paper license is typically issued on the spot, so you won’t be left high and dry while you wait.

When You Need a Replacement License in Colorado

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect it—and sometimes, that means your driver’s license ends up lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition. If you can’t put your hands on a valid license, Colorado law says it’s time to get a replacement. You’ll also need a new one if your personal information changes—like your name, address, or gender marker.

Driving without a valid license isn’t just risky; it can lead to hefty fines or worse if you’re pulled over. Even if you’re just riding along as a passenger, having an official ID on you is often a must. Bottom line? If your license is missing, unreadable, or outdated, it’s better to act sooner rather than later.

How Getting Your First License Compares to Getting a Replacement

Whether you’re holding your very first driver’s license or replacing one that’s gone missing, the overall process in Colorado has a lot in common. In both cases, you’ll leave with a temporary paper license that lets you drive legally right away. And in both cases, your physical card will arrive by mail—usually within 10 to 14 business days.

The main difference? When you’re getting your first license, you’ll need to pass a written exam, vision test, and road test before you ever reach the finish line. With a replacement license, you’re just updating your record—no testing required.

Ways to Apply for a Replacement License in Colorado

Here in Colorado, you’ve got a few different routes you can take when replacing a driver’s license—each with its own set of twists and turns.

Online through myDMV: If your photo, Social Security Number, and signature are already on file, you can hop online and request a replacement without leaving your couch. It’s the fastest, smoothest option for most folks.
In-person at a DMV Office: If your records aren’t complete or if your license has been expired for too long, you’ll need to visit a Colorado DMV location. You’ll walk away with a temporary paper license and your new card will follow by mail.
By mail (special circumstances): If you’re temporarily living outside Colorado—say you’re attending college out of state or serving in the military—you might qualify to replace your license by mail. You’ll need to jump through a few extra hoops, but it beats flying home just for paperwork.

How Long It Takes Based on Application Method

How quickly you’ll have your new license in hand depends a lot on how you go about replacing it. If you apply online through Colorado’s myDMV portal, you can usually expect your new license to show up in your mailbox within 10 to 14 business days. Pretty smooth sailing, all things considered.

Going in person? You’ll get a temporary paper license right then and there, so you’re legally good to go while your physical card gets processed and mailed out—again, usually within 10 to 14 business days.

Mail-in applications are a different story. If you’re replacing from outside Colorado, it might take a little longer—up to 20 business days. It’s not quite “waiting for paint to dry,” but patience will definitely come in handy.

Costs and Payment Methods

Before you gear up to replace your license, it’s smart to know what it’ll cost you. In Colorado, the standard replacement fee for a driver’s license is around $12.

If you’re replacing it online, you’ll need a credit or debit card handy. For in-person visits, most DMV offices accept cards, cash, checks, or money orders. Just double-check ahead of time—some smaller locations can be a bit picky about payment types.

One thing many folks don’t realize: if your license was stolen and you file a police report, you might qualify to have the replacement fee waived. It’s worth asking when you apply.

What to Expect After You Apply

Once you’ve crossed the t’s and dotted the i’s on your replacement application, here’s what you can expect. If you apply in person, you’ll walk out with a temporary paper license good for 30 days. This paper copy gives you the legal right to drive and handle most ID checks while your real license winds its way through the mail.

If you applied online or by mail, you won’t get a temporary—you’ll just need to sit tight. Most licenses arrive within two weeks, but around holidays or during DMV busy seasons, it might take a little longer.

You can also track the status of your replacement through the myDMV portal—a handy move if you don’t want to feel like you’re driving blind, so to speak.

Tips to Avoid Delays

Replacing your license shouldn’t feel like hydroplaning through a bureaucratic storm. A little prep work can keep you cruising along smoothly:

Double-check your mailing address before you hit submit—wrong info is one of the biggest reasons licenses go missing.
Avoid peak times if you’re visiting a DMV office. Early mornings midweek are your best bet for shorter waits.
Use DMV kiosks if available—they can sometimes speed up your application by a few days.
Save your receipt or confirmation email; it’ll make troubleshooting way easier if something goes sideways.

A little defensive driving mindset—planning ahead, staying alert—pays off even at the DMV.

What If Your Replacement Doesn’t Arrive?

Sometimes even the smoothest plans hit a snag. If it’s been more than 30 days since you applied and your new license still hasn’t shown up, it’s time to take action.

First, check your license status through the Colorado myDMV portal—it might just be stuck in processing. If it shows as issued but you haven’t received it, call the Colorado DMV at 303-205-5600 or reach out through their online help desk.

Have your application receipt handy—it’s your golden ticket for quicker service. And don’t wait too long; if something went wrong with delivery, you may be eligible for a free reissue.

Special Circumstances to Know About

Not every replacement journey follows the same road. If you’re active military and stationed outside Colorado, you can still apply online and have your license mailed to you—no need to interrupt your service.

If you’re living abroad temporarily (maybe soaking up a study abroad program or handling family matters), you can replace your license by mail. Just be ready to provide proof of residency and identity.

And if you’re under 21, keep in mind: even if you turn 21 next week, you’ll still get a vertical (under-21) license replacement unless you specifically renew after your birthday. Timing, as they say, is everything.

Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of License Issues

Replacing a lost or damaged license might feel like a hassle at first, but it’s a necessary move to keep life running smoothly—and legally. At Anshor, we’re all about helping you stay ahead of problems before they snowball.

Remember: acting quickly protects you from unexpected bumps in the road, whether that’s getting pulled over or hitting a snag at airport security. Your license is more than just a card—it’s your permission to keep moving forward safely and confidently.