Start Confident, Stay Supported
Getting your Colorado driver’s license is a big milestone. It’s natural to feel excited about the independence ahead — and a little nervous about the responsibilities that come with it. That mix of feelings is a good sign. It means you’re taking this process seriously, and that’s the best way to start your driving journey.
This guide is here to walk you through the process step by step. Think of it as your roadmap: every phase is explained, every requirement is broken down, and you’ll know exactly what to expect. By the end, you’ll feel prepared, confident, and ready to earn your license the safe way.
Even If You’re Feeling Unsure…
Even if you’re worried about remembering all the steps, you’ll see that the process is designed to guide you one phase at a time.
Even if you’ve never been behind the wheel, structured practice will help you build skills gradually.
Even if you’re anxious about the test, preparation and repetition will boost your confidence.
Even if you’re juggling school and activities, you can fit drivers ed into your schedule and stay on track.
You don’t need to know everything right away. You just need to move forward step by step.
Colorado’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) System
Colorado uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system to help new drivers build skills safely. Instead of granting full privileges immediately, GDL introduces responsibilities in three phases:
Learner’s Permit Phase: You’ll drive with a supervising adult beside you.
Minor License Phase: You can drive on your own, but with temporary restrictions such as limits on passengers and nighttime driving.
Full License Phase: After proving you’re a safe driver and reaching the age requirement, restrictions are lifted.
This system reduces crash risks for new drivers by easing you into more complex driving situations over time.
Age-Based Permit Requirements
Your first step is applying for a learner’s permit. The requirements vary by age:
Ages 15 to 15 ½ – Driver Education Permit: Requires a 30-hour state-approved drivers ed course (often available online).
Ages 15 ½ to 16 – Driver Awareness Permit: You can complete either the 30-hour course or a shorter 4-hour driver awareness program.
Ages 16 to 18 – Minor Instruction Permit: No course is required before applying, but you’ll face different behind-the-wheel requirements later.
Understanding how old you need to be for each step helps you plan the timing perfectly.
Step 1: Getting Your Learner’s Permit
What to Bring
Proof of identity (birth certificate or valid passport — no photocopies)
Proof of Social Security number (SS card, W-2, or paystub with full SSN)
Two proofs of Colorado residency (bank statement, utility bill, or school document — a parent can sign an affidavit if documents are in their name)
Certificate of course completion (if required by your age group)
Application fee (check the DMV site for current fees)
Appointment & Knowledge Test
Schedule your DMV appointment early online — slots fill quickly.
The written test has about 25 multiple-choice questions. You’ll need at least 20 correct answers to pass.
Study the Colorado Driver Handbook and take online practice tests for confidence.
Permit Restrictions
Once you have your permit:
Drive only with a supervising adult (21+) who has had a license for at least one year.
No cell phone or device use while driving.
Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt.
Step 2: Practice Phase – Building Skills
Holding your permit for a full year is required before testing for your license. During this time:
50 hours of supervised driving must be logged, including 10 hours at night.
Use the RoadReady app (endorsed by the DMV) to track hours and conditions.
Behind-the-wheel training:
If you got your permit before age 16 ½ → 6 hours with a certified driving instructor are required.
If you got your permit at 16 ½ or later → no BTW requirement, but professional lessons are highly recommended.
Knowing exactly how many hours of driving school you need depends on your specific age and permit type.
Best Practices for Practice Driving
Start with low-stress environments like empty parking lots.
Progress to neighborhood streets, then highways and busier conditions.
Communicate with your supervising driver — talk through what you see and the decisions you make.
Step 3: Preparing for Your Driving Test
Scheduling
Schedule your test at the DMV or with a third-party driving school.
Driving schools may offer weekend appointments for more flexibility.
Vehicle Checklist
Make sure your car has:
Valid registration and proof of insurance
Working headlights, brake lights, and turn signals
Functioning horn and wipers
A clear, crack-free windshield
What the Test Covers
Expect to be evaluated on:
Smooth turning, stopping, and backing up
Lane changes and merging
Following distances
Obeying speed limits and signs
Parking (parallel or other maneuvers)
Understanding how the Colorado driving test is scored gives you insight into exactly what examiners look for during your evaluation.
Managing Nerves
Get good rest the night before.
Arrive early to avoid stress.
Take deep breaths before starting.
Remember: the examiner wants safe, predictable driving — not perfection.
Step 4: Earning Your Minor Driver’s License
After passing your test, you’ll receive your Class D Minor License. Bring:
Your permit
Your signed 50-hour log (or RoadReady app record)
Proof of behind-the-wheel training (if required)
Identity and residency documents
License fee
You’ll get a temporary paper license at the DMV and your official card by mail in a few weeks.
Restrictions for the First Year
Passengers:
First 6 months: no passengers under 21 unless supervised by a parent/guardian (siblings are exceptions).
Months 7–12: only one passenger under 21 allowed.
Curfew: No driving between 12 a.m. and 5 a.m. without a parent/guardian (exceptions for school, work, or emergencies).
Cell phone use: Not allowed for drivers under 18, even hands-free.
Step 5: Transition to a Full License
At 18, all restrictions expire automatically. Your minor license remains valid until renewal. When you renew after turning 21, it becomes a standard adult license.
Key Takeaways for Success
Getting your Colorado driver’s license takes time, but every step is designed to help you build safe habits and confidence. By starting drivers ed early, making the most of your permit year, and preparing calmly for your test, you’ll set yourself up for success. The habits you practice now will carry with you long after you earn your license — shaping you into a safe, capable driver for life.
