A Colorado CDL replacement must be obtained any time the original document is lost, stolen or seriously damaged. Licensed commercial drivers are required to replace CDL license cards as soon as possible after realizing the document is mutilated or missing. All requests for a duplicate CDL license must be directed to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) of the Colorado Department of Revenue (DOR).

State law dictates that adults who need to replace a missing license must apply for a renewal instead. The replacement for a stolen, damaged or lost CDL drivers license will have the same privileges, endorsements and restrictions as the original document. Review the following sections to learn how to replace a CDL license in CO, including where to apply and how much your replacement/renewal will cost.

When do you need to get a duplicate CDL license in Colorado?

While a lost CDL drivers license is the most common reason for seeking a replacement by renewal, sometimes a commercial drivers license is stolen. If you have reason to believe that your card was stolen, it is wise to report it to your local law enforcement agency. When you obtain a duplicate CDL license quickly, it can help guard against identity theft and other fraudulent use of your card. Having a police report documenting the theft and can help you later if legal issues arise due to the theft.

Other reasons for DMV CDL replacement include changing your name after a marriage or divorce, and damaging your card to the point that portions of it are no longer readable. You also must also use the renewal process to get a replacement if your photo is severely damaged or if you have seriously altered your appearance.

If you fail to replace CDL license documents promptly can protect you from potential problems, such as losing your commercial driving job. You can also receive a ticket for driving without a proper CDL in your possession. Getting a CDL replacement right away is much less expensive than paying the fines associated with a traffic citation.

Documents Required to Replace a CDL in Colorado

When you learn how to replace a CDL license in CO, you will see that the DMV requires several specific types of identification documents. These identity documents vary depending on your citizenship status, but the state uses a set of three identification requirement steps:

  1. Provide proof of name, identity, date of birth and lawful presence. These documents include a Colorado driver license or ID card, a passport, permanent resident card, or a combination of other documents that provide the same information.
  2. Provide proof of Social Security Number, via Social Security Card, tax records or pay stubs.
  3. Provide proof of current Colorado residency by showing a driver license, utility bill, mortgage statement or other approved document.

Note that all documents used to obtain a CDL replacement must be unaltered certified original documents, certified amended original documents, or true copies certified by the agency that issued them. The Colorado Department of Revenue provides an extensive list of acceptable documents. If you cannot provide the required documents to replace CDL license credentials, or you receive a notice of incomplete application, ask the DMV how to apply for Exceptions Processing. This procedure can help you provide other information to verify your identity or legal presence.

How to Replace a Colorado CDL in Person

You may replace a lost CDL drivers license by making an appointment on the DMV’s website. This option is available for CDL replacement at all DMV offices except Salida, Hot Sulphur Springs and Delta. To make an appointment at one of those three locations, call 303-205-5600 and choose option one, then option four.

You may also replace CO CDL license documents at any DMV office during normal business hours without an appointment, but you may have to wait longer for service. You must bring a form of payment for the CDL replacement fees and documents to verify your identity, Social Security Number and in-state physical residence. If you do not have all the forms required for a duplicate CDL license, you may be able to complete your transaction by verifying your personal data and providing a fingerprint match. You may also have to provide a duplicate CDL license medical certificate form.

How to Replace a Colorado CDL Online

You may be able to apply for a duplicate CDL online, but you must first make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. Even though you are obtaining a replacement CDL, you must choose the option to renew a driver license. The requirements for online are listed in full on the renewal page. Some of the requirements include:

  • S. citizenship or lawful presence in the United States
  • Your Social Security Number is on file and your name has not changed
  • You have a good DMV payment record
  • You have no pending or final departmental actions on your record
  • Your current DOT medical card is in good standing
  • You are between 21 and 65 years of age

If you meet all the online requirements, you will enter your Colorado customer identifier (account number), last name, date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security Number. Follow the prompts to enter the remaining information and pay the CDL replacement fees by credit or debit card.

How to Replace a Colorado CDL by Mail

Certain commercial drivers may apply for a duplicate CDL by mail after meeting eligibility requirements. You must visit the CO DMV’s webpage to check eligibility to renew by mail. If you meet the outlined qualifications, you will be provided the information necessary to submit your CDL replacement request and fee payment by mail.

CDL Replacement Fees in Colorado

The first time you get a duplicate CDL, the fee is $9. Second and subsequent CDL replacement fees are $16 each. CO DMV driver license offices accept cash, checks made payable to DOR and the following credit cards:

  • Visa
  • MasterCard
  • American Express
  • Discover Card

Note that fees cannot be combined for payments made by check or for credit card charges. If your personal check does not clear, you must pay those fees by cash or money order.

Last updated on Friday, March 6 2020.