A step-by-step guide to getting your Colorado Learner License and moving through the GDL program to a full driver's license.
Colorado's minor-driver program has two stages: an Instruction Permit (Phase 1) and a full Driver License (Phase 2) with time-based passenger and curfew restrictions during the first year of licensure. Anyone who operates a motor vehicle on Colorado's public streets and highways must be 16 or older and have a valid driver license. Under-18 applicants need an Affidavit of Liability (DR2460) signed by a parent, stepparent, grandparent with power of attorney, legal guardian, spouse older than 18, or another responsible adult.
Minimum age: 15 (with driver education) or 16. Hold for at least 12 months before applying for a driver license. Supervisor 21+ with a valid Colorado license must be in the front passenger seat.
Age 16+. First-year passenger and curfew restrictions apply. Fee set by Colorado DMV — confirm at myDMV.Colorado.gov.
After 1 year of licensure (for drivers under 18), passenger and curfew restrictions are lifted. At age 18, all minor-driver rules no longer apply.
Download the Colorado Driver Handbook (December 2024) from DMV.Colorado.gov. Practice quizzes are also available on the myColorado app.
Applicants under 18 must have the DR2460 signed and verified by a parent, stepparent, grandparent with power of attorney, legal guardian, spouse older than 18, or other responsible adult — either in front of the driver license office employee or a notary public. The signer accepts legal responsibility for the minor's driving.
Bring the documents required to verify identity, lawful presence, Social Security number, and Colorado residency. Full identification requirements are at DMV.Colorado.gov/documents.
A vision exam will be given. Pass the written knowledge test with at least 80% (about 20 correct out of 25 questions). Written tests are not given within 30 minutes of an office's scheduled closing time.
Pay the instruction permit fee — confirm current amount at myDMV.Colorado.gov. After payment, you receive your Instruction Permit and can begin supervised driving practice.
Be at least 16 years old, have held your Instruction Permit for at least 12 months, and have completed the required 50-hour driving log (10 at night) and, if applicable, the 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
If younger than 16 and 6 months, you must complete 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training with an approved driver education instructor before taking the driving skills test.
The drive test is primarily given by state-approved Certified Commercial Driving Schools (a current list is at DMV.Colorado.gov/drivereducation). Some county-operated offices also offer drive tests. The test evaluates lane selection and management, turn signals (100 ft urban / 200 ft on 4-lane highways >40 mph), smooth speed control, complete stops, acceleration, and searching/scanning. Only the driver and examiner are allowed in the vehicle.
Free, no signup · Questions verified against the official state driver manual