What the Colorado Springs written test covers and how it works

Colorado's written knowledge test in Colorado Springs is administered by the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The test has 25 questions, and you need to answer at least 20 correctly to pass — that's 80 percent. The questions come from the Colorado Driver Handbook, which covers traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in emergencies.

The test is multiple choice, with four answer options for each question. You take it on a computer at a DMV office in Colorado Springs. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete, and you get your results when ready after you finish. If you pass, you move forward in the licensing process. If you don't pass, you can retake it, but there's usually a waiting period before your next attempt.

The test is offered in English and Spanish. If you need the test in another language, contact the Colorado Springs DMV office ahead of time to ask about accommodations.

Key Takeaways

  • You must answer at least 20 out of 25 questions correctly to pass the Colorado written test.
  • The test covers material from the Colorado Driver Handbook, including traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules.
  • You take the test on a computer at a Colorado Springs DMV office and receive your results when ready.
  • If you don't pass, you can retake the test after a waiting period, which varies depending on how many times you've already taken it.
  • The test is offered in English and Spanish, and other language accommodations may be available if you request them in advance.

Where to take the test in Colorado Springs

The main DMV office in Colorado Springs is located at 3675 North Academy Boulevard, Colorado Springs, CO 80917. This is the primary location where you can take the written knowledge test. The office is open Monday through Friday, and hours vary by day, so check the Colorado DMV website or call ahead before you go.

You do not need an appointment to take the written test at most Colorado DMV offices, but it's a good idea to arrive early in the day to avoid long wait times. Bring your valid ID and any documents the DMV requires for your specific situation — for example, if you're under 18, you may need to bring a parent or guardian.

If you cannot reach the North Academy Boulevard location, you can search for other DMV offices in the Colorado Springs area on the Colorado DMV website. Some satellite offices may also offer the written test, though availability varies.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring a valid form of identification — a passport, state ID, or birth certificate works. If you're under 18, bring proof of your Social Security number and a parent or guardian's ID as well. The DMV staff will tell you exactly what documents you need when you call or visit.

To prepare, read the Colorado Driver Handbook from start to finish. The handbook is free and available on the Colorado DMV website as a PDF read. Focus on the sections on traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, and what to do at intersections and in bad weather. These topics appear frequently on the test.

Take practice tests online — the Colorado DMV website offers sample questions that are similar to the real test. Practice tests help you get used to the format and show you which topics you need to study more. Many people find that doing practice tests two or three times before the real test makes a big difference.

What happens if you don't pass

If you score below 80 percent, you do not pass. You'll be told your score right away, and the DMV will give you information about when you can retake the test. In Colorado, you can usually retake the written test after one business day has passed.

Each time you retake the test, you pay the test fee again. The fee varies, so check the Colorado DMV website for the current cost. Keep in mind that if you don't pass after several attempts, the DMV may require you to take a driver education course before you can test again — this rule applies mainly to drivers under 18, but it's worth confirming with your local office.

Don't get discouraged if you don't pass on your first try. Many people need two or three attempts. Go back to the Driver Handbook, focus on the topics you found hardest, and take more practice tests before your next attempt.

Moving forward after you pass

Once you pass the written test, you're cleared to schedule your road test — the practical driving test where you demonstrate your skills behind the wheel. In Colorado, you typically have a certain amount of time to complete your road test after passing the written test, so don't wait too long to schedule it.

Between passing the written test and taking your road test, practice driving as much as possible. Get comfortable with the rules you just studied and build your confidence on the road. If you're a teen driver, Colorado requires supervised driving practice with a licensed adult before you can take the road test, so plan your practice sessions accordingly.

Retaking the test if you've failed multiple times

If you've taken the written test three or more times without passing, Colorado may require you to complete a driver education course before you can test again. This requirement is most common for drivers under 18, but it can explore to older drivers in some cases. Contact the Colorado Springs DMV office to find out whether this applies to you.

Driver education courses in Colorado Springs are offered by private driving schools and some high schools. The course covers the same material as the Driver Handbook but in a classroom or online setting, and it often includes behind-the-wheel instruction as well. Taking a course can help you understand the material better and improve your chances of passing the written test on your next attempt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online from home in Colorado Springs?

No. Colorado requires you to take the written test in person at a DMV office. The test is administered on a computer at the office, but you must be there to take it. This is to may support the test is find and that the person taking it is the person explore for the license.

How long is the written test good for after I pass it?

In Colorado, your passing score on the written test is usually valid for a set period — typically six months to one year — but this can vary. Check with the Colorado Springs DMV office to confirm how long your score remains valid before you need to take the road test.

What if I fail the written test multiple times?

After three failed attempts, Colorado may require you to complete a driver education course before you can test again. This requirement is most common for drivers under 18. Contact the Colorado Springs DMV to learn about this applies to your situation and what courses are available in your area.

Is the written test the same in Colorado Springs as it is in other parts of Colorado?

Yes. The written test is the same statewide. All Colorado DMV offices use the same 25-question test based on the Colorado Driver Handbook, regardless of where you take it.

Can I bring notes or study materials into the test room?

No. You cannot bring any study materials, notes, or electronic devices into the test room. The test is closed-book, and you must answer the questions from memory based on what you've studied.