Getting your driver’s license is a rite of passage for many teens. If you’re itching to get behind the wheel in Colorado, you’re probably wondering how old you need to be, how soon you can take driver's ed, and the other steps you’ll need to take. This simple guide will tell you everything you need to know.
Minimum Age to Take Driver's Ed in Colorado
You must be at least 16 years of age to get a minor's driver's license in Colorado. However, it’s also important to note that the state requires teens to have their learner’s permit for a full 12 months before applying for a driver’s license. So, if you want to get your license at age 16, you’ll need to get your permit when you turn 15. However, you can start the process even earlier. The state allows you to begin taking your driver's ed course as early as 14.5 years of age.
Steps Required for Teens to Get a Colorado Driver’s License
The requirements for obtaining your Colorado driver's license are slightly different depending on when you start the process. However, the steps are basically the same.
1. Complete the Required Courses
If you are between 14.5 and 15.5, you must complete an approved 30-hour Driver Education Course. Once you’ve passed the age of 15.5, you can either take the 30-hour course or choose an approved Pre-Qualification 4-Hour Driver Awareness Program instead.
These courses are very important, as they will teach you basic driving skills that you should use every day. This will give you the foundation to be a safe driver for the rest of your life.
2. Written Exam and Practice Permit
Once you’ve reached at least the age of 15, you’ll need to pass a written permit test and apply for your permit. Your parent or legal guardian will also need to sign an Affidavit of Liability, allowing you to obtain your learner’s permit.
3. Log Your Driving Time
Now that you’ve got your permit, you’ll need to log at least 50 hours of driving time over a course of at least 12 months. This must include at least 10 hours of night-time driving. The Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will provide you with an official Drive Time Log Sheet, which can be completed by a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult.
4. Behind the Wheel Training
If you are 16.5 years old or younger, you’ll also need to complete six hours of behind-the-wheel training before you can apply for your driver’s license.
5. Apply for Your Driver’s License
Once you have completed all the requirements listed above, you are at least 16 years old, and you have held your learner’s permit for at least 12 full months, you can apply for a driver’s license. You’ll need to schedule an appointment and complete your driver’s test successfully.
Remember that once you pass, you’ll still need to follow the state’s driver’s license rules for teens until you turn 18.
Ready to Get Your Colorado Driver’s License?
DriversEd.com offers the best Colorado Teen Driver’s Ed courses, so you can quickly and easily meet the requirements for your driver’s license. Check it out today and don’t hesitate to contact our support team with any questions.