Colorado Lost or Stolen Learner's Permit: Replacement Fee, Temporary Permit, and Reporting Steps

To replace a lost learner's permit in Colorado, use the in-person replacement process unless you qualify for the limited out-of-state mail option.

For an in-state replacement, use the DMV replacement process, present the required identification, and pay the duplicate fee. A mail replacement is limited to eligible REAL ID-compliant credential holders who are temporarily out of state and provide an out-of-state mailing address. For full permit rules, see the Colorado learner's permit guide.

How Do You Replace a Lost Colorado Learner's Permit - Fees, Documents, and Timeline?

Most applicants should use the in-person replacement process. Form DR 2989 provides a mail option for eligible REAL ID-compliant credential holders who are temporarily out of state and can provide an out-of-state mailing address.

How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Colorado Learner's Permit

• Schedule an Appointment: Book a 'Duplicate/Replacement' appointment online at dmv.colorado.gov. Walk-ins are rarely accepted.
• Visit a DMV Office: Go to your appointment with all required documents. You will have your photo retaken.
• Pay the Duplicate Fee: The fee for your first replacement is $12. A second or subsequent duplicate costs $16.
• Receive Your Permit: You will leave with a temporary paper permit. Your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail in 10-14 business days.

Should you replace or renew a Colorado permit that is lost close to its expiration date?

A duplicate keeps the original permit's expiration date, so replacing a permit shortly before expiration does not extend its validity. If renewal or a new permit is already due, compare that process with paying for a duplicate that will expire on the same original date.

Do you need to replace a damaged Colorado permit if the information is still readable?

If the permit is damaged enough that the photo, identifying information, security features, or credential number cannot be reliably read, replace it. If you are unsure whether the card is still acceptable, contact DMV before relying on it for supervised driving.

Can someone else pick up or request your Colorado replacement permit for you?

A duplicate instruction permit is issued for the credential holder and requires the applicant's certification that the original was lost, stolen, or destroyed. Do not assume another person can complete the replacement in your place; use the DMV-approved in-person or eligible mail process for the permit holder.

Documents Needed to Replace a Colorado Learner's Permit

• Proof of Identity: A certified birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or permanent resident card.
• Social Security Number: Your Social Security card or number for verification.
• For Minors: A parent or guardian should accompany you. The Affidavit of Liability (DR 2460) must be on file; if not, bring a signed copy or have it notarized before your appointment.
• Proof of Colorado Address (if changed): Two documents like a utility bill or bank statement.

Can a minor replace a lost Colorado learner's permit without a parent present?

Do not assume a parent must attend every replacement transaction, but the minor still has to meet DMV identity and application requirements. If the office needs a new liability/guardianship signature or other minor-specific document, the required signer must complete it as directed by DMV.

Can You Drive While Waiting for a Replacement Colorado Permit?

No. You may drive only once you have the temporary paper permit issued by the DMV in your possession. The DMV issues it at the replacement appointment; it is valid for 30 days or until your permanent card arrives. Keep it with you whenever you drive. Driving without it is a Class B traffic infraction with fines from $15 to $100.

Colorado Lost Permit Scenarios: Denver, Colorado Springs, and Out-of-State College Students

In-state applicants generally use the DMV replacement process. An out-of-state student should use Form DR 2989 only if they meet the form's REAL ID-compliant credential and temporary-out-of-state requirements.

Scenario 1: Standard In-State Replacement

You lose your permit in Denver. You schedule an appointment at the Denver Central DMV office for the next available slot, which is in 5 days. You bring your passport and a utility bill. You pay the $12 fee and receive a temporary paper permit. Your new card arrives in the mail 12 days later.

The Colorado learner's permit guide has full eligibility details.

Scenario 2: Replacement for a Minor in Colorado Springs

A 16-year-old in Colorado Springs loses their permit. Their parent takes a half-day off work to go to the DMV on Academy Boulevard, but the minor's hospital birth certificate is rejected because it is not a state-issued certified copy. They must reschedule, causing a week's delay in the teen's driving practice. Verify you have a state-issued certified birth certificate, not a hospital keepsake, before leaving for the appointment.

Scenario 3: Out-of-State Replacement by Mail

If you are temporarily out of state and your Colorado credential is REAL ID compliant, Form DR 2989 may allow replacement by mail when you provide an out-of-state mailing address. If you do not meet those conditions, do not assume the mail option is available.

Do Not Overlook This: If studying out of state, keep a digital copy of your permit and all ID documents to speed up the mail-in verification process if you need to reissue your instruction permit.

Colorado Permit Replacement Rules: Expiration Dates, Multiple Replacements, and Stolen Permits

A replacement Colorado permit expires on the same date as your original. Multiple replacements are permitted but flagged. For stolen permits, file a police report before visiting the DMV.

• Expiration Date: Your replacement permit retains the original expiration date; it does not extend your driving privileges.
• Multiple Replacements: After a second duplicate, you may need special approval from the Department to get another.
• Stolen Permits: A police report is not mandatory but is recommended to help prevent identity fraud.