It is not uncommon for drivers to lose their licenses. They often have a hard time getting duplicate driver’s licenses in Colorado. That’s because a duplicate license isn’t issued when missing it. The same goes for licenses stolen by someone. This is especially true for adults having a Colorado driver’s license. The minor’s licenses can be reissued though.
People who live in Colorado and lost their driver’s license cannot apply for the duplicate one unless they are under age 21. However, they can still renew their licenses in Colorado. Remember that the license expiration will change when renewing it, and thereafter, your previous license won’t be valid anymore. If you’re under 21 years of age and your driver’s license gets lost (or you missed it), this article is right for you.
Documents to Replace a Lost Driver’s License
Listed below are some of the documents you need to prepare when replacing or renewing your driving license in Colorado:
- A Valid U.S. Passport
- Birth Certificate
- Social Security Card
- Military ID
- Utility Bill
- Citizenship Certificate
- Bank Statement
- Credit Card Statement
Whether you lose your driver’s license or it gets stolen, destroyed or damaged, you should get a new one as soon as you can. There are three different ways of replacing or renewing a Colorado driving license:
- In person
- By mail, or
- Online
Renewing Your License by Mail
Luckily, those who live out of Colorado can apply for a duplicate driver’s license by mail. Check your eligibility by printing out and completing the Form DR2989 (Request for a Duplicate Instruction Permit or Driver License). This form should be mailed to:
Colorado Department of Revenue
Division of Motor Vehicles, Rm 136
Denver, Colorado 80261-0016
Please note that there is a required fee. For regular licenses, the renewal fee is $26. If you want to apply for an SB251 driving license, be ready to pay $79.58. Make sure your check is payable to the DOR (Colorado Department of Revenue).
Changing a license photo or name involves renewing the license in person and it can’t be done by mail. It takes up to 30 days to get a new license. Temporary licenses are not delivered meanwhile. That said, you need to renew your license at least thirty days before its expiration.
Renewing Your Driver’s License Online
If you plan to renew your driver’s license online, consider these things before making a decision:
- Applicants should make sure their email address is valid.
- All eligibility requirements need to be met when renewing a driver’s license online.
- The applicant must have a MasterCard, Visa, American Express, or Discover credit card.
- Every transaction is subject to a processing fee.
Just as with renewing a Colorado driver’s license by mail, the renewal fee is $79.58 for SB251 licenses and $26 for regular licenses. It takes a maximum of 30 days for a new license to arrive after applying.
Bear in mind that you won’t get a temporary driver’s license while waiting for a new one. That is why you need to replace or renew your license promptly at your earliest convenience. Avoid driving with an expired license to prevent legal issues. Check this guide on how to check your actual driver’s license status in Colorado.
Replacing Lost Driver’s License in Person
The Colorado driver’s license can be replaced in person at these Colorado DMV locations. As a driver, you need to consider making an appointment if possible. This process involves:
- Providing proof of residence/address
- Bringing in your identification card or your old driver’s license
- Paying the fee of $21
Once your new Colorado driving license is renewed, the DMV will mail you shortly thereafter. Remember that it takes up to 30 days. There is no temporary license like in some states.
With that in mind, you need to renew your license at least thirty days before it expires. Driving with an expired license is illegal. Moreover, most insurance companies deny car insurance for drivers with an expired license when they get into a traffic accident.
If you haven’t got a new driving license after 30 days, be sure to contact the Colorado DMV office timely. It goes without saying that you should do it in a location where you applied for your license. Alternatively, you may consider calling 303-205-5948.
When it comes to driving licenses that expired more than 12 months ago, they can’t be renewed either. In that case, you will have to apply for a new license. Young drivers who didn’t turn 22 yet are not capable of renewing their license.