How to Renew Your Colorado Driver's License

Renewing Your Colorado Driver's License Online, by Mail, or In Person

Colorado lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office, depending on how much time you have and whether your license is still valid. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $28.25 for a five-year license; you'll receive your new card in 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes longer but works if you prefer not to visit an office. In-person renewal at a DMV office is fastest if you need your license when ready or if you don't meet the requirements for online or mail renewal.

Your renewal method depends on your current situation. If your Colorado license is still valid and you haven't changed your name, address, or other key information since your last renewal, you can renew online or by mail. If your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, or if you've had a major life change, you'll need to renew in person.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Colorado DMV website is the fastest option for most people and takes 7 to 10 business days to receive your card.
You can renew by mail if you prefer, though it takes 2 to 3 weeks and requires you to mail in your current license and a completed form.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license is expired, suspended, or if you've changed your name or address since your last renewal.
Colorado driver's licenses are valid for five years, and you can renew up to one year before your expiration date.
You'll need your current Colorado license, Social Security number, and proof of residency for any renewal method.

Renewing Online Through the Colorado DMV Website

Online renewal is the simplest path if your license is still valid and your personal information hasn't changed. Go to the Colorado DMV website, select "Renew Driver's License," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information and show you the renewal fee of $28.25 for a five-year license.

After you pay by credit or debit card, you're done. Your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is open to anyone whose license is valid and whose information hasn't changed since their last renewal.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal works if you want to avoid a trip to the DMV office but don't mind waiting. read the process for Driver's License or Identification Card (Form DL-44) from the Colorado DMV website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with your current license and a check or money order for $28.25 to the address listed on the form.

Mail your packet to the Colorado DMV address shown on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time they receive your envelope. Your new license will arrive by mail after processing is complete. Mail renewal is available only if your license is still valid and you haven't changed your name, address, or other personal details since your last renewal.

Renewing In Person at a Colorado DMV Office

Visit a DMV office if your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, or if you've changed your name or address since your last renewal. Bring your current Colorado license (or expired license if your current one is not available), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current Colorado address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

You'll fill out Form DL-44 at the office, have your photo taken, and pay the $28.25 renewal fee by cash, check, or card. Your new license is usually ready the same day or within a few days. Some DMV offices are busier than others, so arriving early or checking wait times on the Colorado DMV website before you go can save time.

What You Need for Any Renewal Method

Regardless of whether you renew online, by mail, or in person, you'll need to provide certain information. Your current Colorado driver's license number is required for all methods. You'll also need your date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security number. If you're renewing in person, bring physical proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return) and proof of your current address.

If you've changed your name since your last renewal, you'll need to renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The same applies if you've changed your address — online and mail renewal only work if your address on file is still current.

Timeline and Costs

Colorado driver's licenses are valid for five years from the date of issue. You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so you don't have to wait until the last minute. The renewal fee is $28.25 for a five-year license, the same regardless of which method you choose.

Online renewal is fastest: 7 to 10 business days from the time you complete your transaction. Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time the DMV receives your packet. In-person renewal is usually the same day or within a few days, depending on office traffic. If you need your license when ready, in-person renewal is your only option.

What Happens If Your License Is Expired or Suspended

If your Colorado license has already expired, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person. Bring the same documents you would for a regular in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The renewal fee is still $28.25.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you'll need to contact the Colorado DMV directly to find out what steps you must take before you can renew. Suspensions and revocations usually result from unpaid traffic fines, DUI convictions, or other violations. The DMV can tell you what you need to do to clear the suspension or revocation before you can get a new license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Colorado license if I've moved out of state?

No. If you no longer live in Colorado, you cannot renew your Colorado license. You'll need to get a driver's license from your new state of residence. If you still live in Colorado but your mailing address is temporarily out of state, contact the Colorado DMV to discuss your options.

What if I lost my current license and can't mail it in?

If you've lost your license, you cannot renew by mail because the DMV needs your current license to process the renewal. You must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring proof of your Social Security number and proof of your current address instead of your license.

How long does my new license take to arrive if I renew online?

Your new license should arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your online renewal. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you don't receive it within two weeks, contact the Colorado DMV.

Can I renew my license if my name has changed?

No, you cannot renew online or by mail if your name has changed. You must renew in person at a DMV office and bring a certified copy of the document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

What if I need my license before the mail arrives?

If you need your license when ready, renew in person at a Colorado DMV office. Your new license is usually ready the same day or within a few days. Online and mail renewal are not options if you need your license right away.

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.