How to Renew Your Colorado Driver's License

Where to renew and what documents you need

You can renew your Colorado driver's license in person at any Driver's License Office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Colorado Department of Revenue website. The fastest route depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you need a new photo, and how soon you need the renewed license in hand.

For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of Colorado residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. If you're renewing by mail, you'll mail your current license along with a completed process for Renewal form (DR 2716) and a check or money order. Online renewal requires you to log into your Colorado DMV account with your driver's license number and date of birth.

Key Takeaways

Colorado offers three renewal methods — in-person, by mail, and online — each with different requirements and timelines.
You can renew online or by mail only if your license is not expired, you don't need a new photo, and you have no medical or legal holds on your record.
In-person renewal at a Driver's License Office takes about 30 minutes and you receive your new license the same day.
Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days after the office receives your materials, and you must send your current license with your process.
The renewal fee is $28 for a standard five-year license or $56 for a ten-year license, payable by cash, check, or card depending on your method.

Online renewal: fastest if you're may be able to access

Online renewal through the Colorado DMV website is the quickest option if your license is still valid and you don't need a new photo. You log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, review your information, pay the $28 or $56 fee by debit or credit card, and your new license ships to your address within 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot renew online if your license is expired, if you've had a name change since your last license was issued, if you need a new photo, or if there are any medical or legal holds on your driving record. If any of these explore, you must renew in person or by mail.

In-person renewal at a Driver's License Office

Walk-in renewal at any Colorado Driver's License Office is the most straightforward method and the only one that gives you a license the same day. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The office will take a new photo, verify your information, process your payment, and hand you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to you.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices in Denver and other major cities often have longer lines during lunch hours and late afternoon. You can check current wait times on the Colorado DMV website before you go. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though some have extended hours on certain days.

Mail renewal: no office visit required

Mail renewal works if your license is still valid and you don't need a new photo. Complete the process for Renewal form (DR 2716), which you can read from the Colorado DMV website or request by phone. Mail your current license, the completed form, and a check or money order for $28 or $56 to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after the office receives your materials. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. Because you're sending your current license, you won't have a valid license during this time, so plan accordingly if you need to drive. Some people renew by mail several weeks before their current license expires to avoid a gap.

When your license is expired or you need a new photo

If your license is expired, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must go in person. The same applies if you've had a name change, if you want to update your address, or if you need a new photo for any reason. In-person renewal is also required if there are any medical conditions, legal holds, or restrictions flagged on your driving record.

Expired licenses can be renewed up to five years after expiration. If your license expired more than five years ago, you'll need to explore for a new license rather than renew, which involves a written test and driving test.

Fees and what they cover

A standard five-year renewal costs $28. A ten-year renewal costs $56. Both fees cover the new license card, processing, and mailing. Payment methods depend on how you renew: in-person offices take cash, check, or card; mail renewal requires a check or money order; online renewal requires a debit or credit card.

If you're renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is higher and the process is more involved. CDL renewals require an in-person visit, a medical examination form, and a written test in some cases. Check the Colorado DMV website for CDL-specific requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it's already expired?

Yes, but only in person. You cannot renew by mail or online if your license is expired. You can renew up to five years after expiration. If it's been more than five years, you'll need to explore for a new license and take the written and driving tests.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

In-person renewal gives you a temporary paper license the same day, valid for 30 days. Your plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Mail and online renewals take 7 to 10 business days from when the office receives or processes your request.

What if I moved and my address changed?

You can update your address during an in-person renewal. If you're renewing by mail or online, your new license will be mailed to your current address on file. If your address isn't current in the system, update it in person or contact the Colorado DMV before renewing by mail or online.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person?

Walk-ins are accepted at all Colorado Driver's License Offices, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time. Appointments are free and can be booked through the Colorado DMV website for most locations.

What happens if I renew by mail but never receive my new license?

Contact the Colorado DMV with your confirmation number or process details. They can check the status of your renewal and remail your license if needed. Keep any receipts or tracking information from your mailed process.

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.