How to Get Your Colorado Learner's Permit (DMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a instruction permit through the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles, Department of Revenue (DMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a instruction permit in Colorado, you must be at least 15 (with driver education) and apply in person at the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles, Department of Revenue (DMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Colorado's DMV written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving — including mountain-driving rules — from the Colorado Driver Handbook. Teens log 50 hours of supervised practice and follow graduated passenger and nighttime limits.
Documents to bring to the DMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity (a government-issued ID, U.S. passport, or military ID; if an applicant under 21 has none of these, a parent or legal guardian signs an Affidavit of Identity at the appointment)
- Proof of Social Security number
- One document proving Colorado residency/address (may be in the minor's or a parent/guardian's name)
- Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (form DR 2460), signed by a parent or legal guardian who accompanies applicants under 18 to the appointment
- Proof of completing an approved 30-hour driver education course or 4-hour driver awareness program (required by age, completed within 180 days of applying)
- Driving Knowledge (written) Test completion or confirmation showing a passing result
The knowledge test
In Colorado, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). A multiple-choice Driving Knowledge (written) Test that can be taken online through the @Home service using a computer with a front-facing camera, or in person at a DMV office, with 60 minutes to complete it.
Rehearse with our free Colorado practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Colorado Practice Test →Fees
The DMV charges $11.50 state permit fee, plus a $5 testing fee (about $6.50 with the credit card processing fee) for the @Home Driving Knowledge Test for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Colorado uses a graduated driver licensing system: an instruction permit is available starting at age 15 (with driver education/awareness requirements for those under 18). Permit holders must drive with a licensed driver 21 or older seated in the front passenger seat, hold the permit for 12 months or until age 18 (whichever comes first), and log at least 50 hours of supervised driving including 10 at night before upgrading to a minor license at 16.
Colorado permit FAQ
How many questions is the Colorado permit test?
The DMV knowledge test has about 25 questions, and you need 20 of 25 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Colorado permit test online?
In Colorado, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). A multiple-choice Driving Knowledge (written) Test that can be taken online through the @Home service using a computer with a front-facing camera, or in person at a DMV office, with 60 minutes to complete it.
What do I need to bring to the DMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Colorado residency, plus anything required for a instruction permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Colorado permit?
You can apply for a instruction permit at 15 (with driver education) in Colorado, provided you meet the DMV's other requirements.
How much does a Colorado permit cost?
The DMV charges $11.50 state permit fee, plus a $5 testing fee (about $6.50 with the credit card processing fee) for the @Home Driving Knowledge Test for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DMV.
What happens if I fail the Colorado permit test?
The @Home test may be taken as many times as needed but only twice in one day, and if more than 50% of the questions are missed on a first attempt the applicant must wait until the next day to test again. A $11.50 state retest fee applies for each additional attempt, payable online or at the DMV appointment.
Official sources: dmv.colorado.gov · dmv.colorado.gov · dmv.colorado.gov