What the Boulder office needs for your license photo

The Boulder Driver License Office is located at 1910 16th Street, Boulder, Colorado 80302. When you go in for a photo — whether for a new license, renewal, or ID card — you need to bring documents that prove who you are and where you live. Colorado's photo requirements are the same at every office, so what works in Boulder works anywhere in the state.

Your photo will be taken on a plain background, and you'll need to follow basic rules: no sunglasses, no hats (unless for religious reasons), and a neutral expression. The camera captures a head-and-shoulders view that becomes your official identification photo for the next 5 to 10 years depending on your license type.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring one document that proves your identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or previous Colorado license.
  • Bring one document that proves your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • The Boulder office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours; call ahead to confirm current hours.
  • Your photo will be taken when ready when you arrive, so plan for the photo session to take 5 to 10 minutes plus any wait time.

Documents that prove your identity

Colorado accepts a primary identity document or a combination of secondary documents. A primary document is one that is hardest to fake and carries your photo or full legal name and date of birth. The most common primary documents are a U.S. passport, passport card, or a previous Colorado driver license or ID card.

If you don't have a primary document, you can bring two secondary documents instead. Secondary documents include a birth certificate, Social Security card, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or military discharge papers. The Boulder office staff will review what you bring and tell you whether it meets the requirement.

Documents that prove your address

You need one document showing your current Colorado address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a property tax bill.

If you've recently moved and don't yet have a document in your new address, bring what you have and explain the situation to the office staff. They may be able to work with you, especially if you have a lease that shows your move-in date.

What happens during the photo session

Once your documents are verified, you'll be directed to the photo area. You'll stand in front of a plain background, and the camera will capture your image. The photo is digital and becomes part of your license record when ready. You don't choose or approve the photo before it's used — it goes directly onto your license.

The whole photo process takes only a few minutes. The wait time depends on how busy the office is that day. If you're renewing your license by mail or online, you won't need to come in for a photo at all — your previous photo will be used unless you request a new one.

Office location and hours

The Boulder Driver License Office is at 1910 16th Street, Boulder, Colorado 80302. The office is open Monday through Friday. Hours vary by season and may change, so call the office directly at the number listed on the Colorado DMV website before you go, or check the DMV's online office locator tool.

Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots. The office is accessible by public transit — the Regional Transportation District (RTD) serves Boulder with multiple bus lines that stop near the location.

What to do if you can't go in person

If you're renewing your license and don't need a new photo, you can renew by mail or online through the Colorado DMV website. Mail renewal takes about two weeks; online renewal is faster but requires a valid credit or debit card. You'll only need to visit the Boulder office in person if you're getting your first license, if your license has expired for more than one year, or if you want a new photo.

If you need a new license but can't travel to Boulder, you can visit any other Colorado Driver License Office. The requirements are identical statewide, so your documents will work anywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear glasses in my license photo?

Yes, you can wear regular eyeglasses in your photo. However, the lenses cannot have a glare or reflection that hides your eyes. Sunglasses are not allowed. If you wear glasses for vision correction, the Boulder office recommends wearing them for your photo so the image matches how you normally look.

What if I don't have a document dated within the last 60 days?

Bring whatever address documents you have and explain your situation to the office staff. If you've just moved, a lease with your move-in date may work. If you're in temporary housing, ask the staff what alternatives they can accept. Having your primary identity document in order makes it easier for them to work with you on the address requirement.

Do I need to make an appointment for a photo at the Boulder office?

Colorado's Driver License Offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis — you do not need an appointment. However, wait times vary throughout the day and week. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays.

Can someone else pick up my license after the photo is taken?

No. You must be present for the photo. Your license will be mailed to you at the address you provide, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You cannot pick it up in person at the Boulder office.