What You Need to Know About Denver's Written Test

In Denver, the written knowledge test is administered by the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) at the downtown Denver office and several satellite locations across the metro area. The test covers Colorado traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must pass this test before you can take the behind-the-wheel driving test, and you need a passing score of at least 80 percent (32 out of 40 questions correct).

The test is offered in English and Spanish. You can take it on a computer at the DMV office, and results are available when ready after you finish. If you do not pass, you can retake it the same day, though you will pay the test fee again.

Key Takeaways

  • Denver DMV locations administer the written test on computers, and you get your score before you leave the office.
  • You must score at least 80 percent (32 of 40 questions) to pass and move forward to the driving test.
  • Bring your current ID, Social Security number, and proof of Colorado residency to the test appointment.
  • The test fee is separate from your license fee and must be paid at the time you take the test.
  • If you fail, you can retake the test the same day by paying the fee again, with no waiting period between attempts.

Denver DMV Locations and Hours

The main Denver DMV office is located at 1881 Pierce Street, Denver, CO 80204. This office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (closed Sundays and state holidays). The Pierce Street location handles all test types, including written knowledge tests.

Several satellite offices in the Denver metro area also offer written tests. These include locations in Aurora, Littleton, and Westminster. Hours vary by location, so check the Colorado DMV website or call ahead before you go. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times can be long during peak hours (typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays). Arriving early in the day or on a Tuesday or Wednesday usually means shorter waits.

Documents You Must Bring

Bring your current, valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card). You will also need your Social Security number — have it memorized or written down. The DMV will verify it against their records.

Bring proof of Colorado residency dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you are a minor, bring a parent or guardian with you, along with their ID and proof of residency.

Test Content and Passing Score

The written test has 40 multiple-choice questions. Topics include right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking regulations, traffic signs and signals, seat belt laws, and impaired driving laws. Questions focus on real-world driving situations you will encounter on Colorado roads.

You must answer at least 32 questions correctly (80 percent) to pass. The test is timed — you have 30 minutes to complete it. The computer will flag any unanswered questions before you submit, so you can go back and answer them. Once you submit, your score appears on screen when ready.

How to Prepare for the Test

The Colorado DMV publishes a free study guide called the Colorado Driver's Handbook, available on the state DMV website as a PDF read. This handbook covers all the material on the written test. Read through it at least once before your test date, and focus on sections about traffic laws and road signs.

Practice tests are also available online through the Colorado DMV website. These are free and mimic the format and difficulty of the actual test. Take several practice tests and review any questions you miss. Many people find that working through the practice tests two or three times before the real test significantly improves their score.

What Happens If You Fail

If you score below 80 percent, you do not pass. You can retake the test when ready — the same day — by paying the test fee again. There is no mandatory waiting period between attempts in Colorado. However, you can only take the test three times in one calendar day.

If you fail three times in one day, you must wait until the next calendar day to take it again. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after reviewing the questions they missed. If you fail multiple times, spend more time with the study guide and practice tests before your next attempt.

Test Fees and Payment

The written knowledge test fee is $10.00 in Colorado. This fee is separate from your license fee and must be paid at the time you take the test. Payment is accepted in cash, debit card, or credit card at the DMV office. If you retake the test, you pay the $10.00 fee each time.

Once you pass the written test, you will receive a score receipt. Keep this receipt — you will need it when you schedule your behind-the-wheel driving test. The passing score is valid for 12 months, so you have one year to complete your driving test.

After You Pass: Next Steps

After you pass the written test, you are cleared to take the behind-the-wheel driving test. You do not have to schedule it when ready — you have 12 months from your passing score date. However, many people schedule the driving test within a few weeks while the material is fresh.

To schedule your driving test, return to the DMV office with your passing score receipt, your ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. You will pay the driving test fee at that time. The behind-the-wheel test takes about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, parking, and real-world driving on Denver streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test without an appointment?

Yes. The Denver DMV accepts walk-ins for the written test. However, wait times vary. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week usually means a shorter wait than afternoons or Fridays. If you want to avoid waiting, you can call the DMV office ahead of time to ask about current wait times.

What if I fail the written test twice?

You can retake it a third time the same day by paying the $10.00 fee again. If you fail all three attempts in one day, you must return the next calendar day to try again. Most people pass within two or three attempts after reviewing the study guide and practice tests.

Is the test offered in languages other than English and Spanish?

The Denver DMV offers the test in English and Spanish. If you need the test in another language, contact the Denver DMV office directly at the Pierce Street location to ask about interpreter services or other accommodations.

How long is my passing score valid?

Your passing written test score is valid for 12 months from the date you pass. You must complete your behind-the-wheel driving test within that 12-month window. If your score expires, you will need to retake the written test.

Can I use my phone or notes during the test?

No. The written test is proctored, and you cannot use your phone, notes, or any reference materials during the test. You can only use the computer provided by the DMV to answer the questions. Attempting to use outside materials will result in disqualification and you will not be allowed to retake the test that day.