What you need to do to get a Colorado driver's permit

To get a Colorado driver's permit, you must visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person, pass a written knowledge test, and pay a fee. You cannot do this online or by mail. The permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take the road test for a full license. Colorado issues permits to people 15 and older, though the rules differ slightly depending on your age.

The whole process takes one visit to the DMV if you bring the right documents and pass the test on your first try. Most people spend 30 minutes to an hour at the office. You will get your permit the same day if you pass.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of Colorado residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to the DMV office.
  • The written knowledge test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices from the Colorado Driver Handbook, which is free online.
  • The permit fee is $20.25 and covers a permit valid for two years.
  • If you are under 18, your permit comes with restrictions: you cannot drive alone until you have held it for 12 months and passed the road test.
  • You can retake the knowledge test the same day if you fail, though you may have to pay the fee again depending on the DMV office.

Documents you must bring to the DMV

Bring an original or certified copy of one document that proves your identity. A U.S. passport, passport card, or Colorado ID card all work. If you do not have any of those, a certified birth certificate, tribal ID, or military ID will work instead. The document must not be expired.

You also need proof that you live in Colorado. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address will do. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from them saying you live there, plus the bill.

Bring your Social Security card or a letter from the Social Security Administration showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and proof that you applied for one. You will also need to fill out an affidavit at the DMV if you do not have a Social Security number.

The knowledge test: what to study and how it works

The written test has 25 questions. You must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. The questions come from the Colorado Driver Handbook, which you can read free from the Colorado DMV website or pick up at any DMV office. Read the whole handbook before you go; the test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, seat belt laws, and what to do in bad weather or emergencies.

The test is on a computer at the DMV office. You will see one question at a time with multiple choice answers. You cannot go back to change an answer once you move forward. The test usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you fail, you can retake it the same day, though some offices charge the fee again.

The test is offered in English and Spanish. If English is not your first language, you can request an interpreter at the DMV office, though you should call ahead to make sure one is available.

Age-based rules for permit holders under 18

If you are 15 or 16, your permit comes with restrictions. You cannot drive alone; a licensed adult 21 or older must be in the front seat with you at all times. You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are going to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. These rules stay in place until you turn 17 or have held your permit for 12 months, whichever comes first.

Once you have held your permit for 12 months and passed the road test, you get a Instruction Permit that lets you drive alone during the day (5 a.m. to midnight) but still requires an adult in the car at night. You keep this restriction until you turn 17 or get your full license.

If you are 17 or older when you get your permit, these nighttime and supervision rules do not explore. You can drive alone at any time as long as you have your permit with you.

The permit fee and how long it lasts

The permit costs $20.25. You pay this fee at the DMV office when you explore. Colorado accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. The permit is valid for two years from the date you receive it.

If your permit expires before you pass the road test and get your full license, you will need to renew it. Renewal costs the same as a new permit. You can renew in person at a DMV office or online through the Colorado DMV website if you still live in Colorado and your permit has not been expired for more than two years.

Where to find a DMV office and what to expect

Colorado has DMV offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Colorado DMV website by entering your city or county. Some offices take walk-ins; others use an appointment system. Check the website for your local office to see whether you need to book ahead or can just show up.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Arrive early in the day if possible; DMV offices are usually less crowded in the morning. Bring your phone or a book because wait times vary from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on how busy the office is.

When it is your turn, tell the staff member you want to get a driver's permit. They will check your documents, have you fill out an process form (called the process for a Colorado Driver License or Permit), take your photo, and send you to the testing area. After you pass the test, you will pay the fee and receive your permit before you leave.

What to do if you fail the knowledge test

If you do not pass the test on your first try, you can retake it the same day at most DMV offices. Go back to the front desk and ask to test again. Some offices charge the $20.25 fee again; others do not. Call your local DMV office before you go to find out their policy.

Before you retake the test, spend time studying the parts of the Colorado Driver Handbook you found hardest. Many DMV offices have computers where you can take a practice test for free while you wait. Ask the staff if this is available at your office. You can also take online practice tests through the Colorado DMV website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a permit if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. Bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and proof that you applied for one, such as a letter from the IRS. You will fill out an affidavit at the DMV saying you do not have a Social Security number. The rest of the process is the same.

What if I fail the knowledge test twice?

You can retake the test as many times as you need on the same day or on different days. Each retake costs $20.25 unless your DMV office waives the fee for same-day retakes. There is no limit to how many times you can test.

Do I need a Colorado ID card before I get a permit?

No. A Colorado ID card is one way to prove your identity, but you can use a passport, birth certificate, or other approved document instead. You do not need to get an ID card first.

Can someone else pick up my permit for me?

No. You must be present at the DMV office to take the knowledge test and receive your permit. The DMV will not issue a permit to someone else on your behalf.

How long can I drive with a permit before I have to take the road test?

Your permit is valid for two years. You can practice driving for as long as you want during that time, but you must pass the road test before your permit expires to get your full license. If your permit expires, you can renew it and keep practicing.