Colorado charges $20 for the written knowledge test when you take your adult learner's permit exam at a Driver License Office

The written knowledge test fee is $20, paid when you show up to test. You cannot pay online or in advance — you pay the Driver License Office directly on the day of your exam. This is the only fee tied to the test itself. If you fail and need to retake it, you pay another $20 each time.

The $20 covers the written exam only. It does not cover the instruction permit itself, which is a separate step with its own cost. It also does not cover any road test you may take later, or the final license fee once you pass.

Colorado does not charge a fee to schedule the test or to walk in without an appointment. Some Driver License Offices accept walk-ins during certain hours; others require you to book a time slot online through the Colorado Department of Revenue website. Booking is free either way.

Key Takeaways

  • The written knowledge test costs $20, paid in cash or card at the Driver License Office on test day.
  • You pay $20 each time you retake the test if you do not pass on your first attempt.
  • The test fee is separate from the instruction permit fee and the final license fee.
  • Scheduling a test appointment online is free, and some offices accept walk-ins at no extra charge.
  • Bring a valid ID and proof of Colorado residency to your test; the office will not test you without both.

What documents and ID you need to bring

Bring a valid photo ID — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. You also need proof of Colorado residency: a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail with your name and current address, dated within the last 60 days. The Driver License Office will not let you test without both.

If your name has changed since your ID was issued, bring a document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office staff will review it before you test.

How the test works and what to expect

The written test has 25 multiple-choice questions about Colorado traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You need to answer at least 20 correctly to pass — that is 80 percent. The test is given on a computer at the Driver License Office, and you get your score before you leave.

You have one hour to finish. The test covers the Colorado Driver Handbook, which you can read free online at the Colorado Department of Revenue website or pick up in print at any Driver License Office. Most people study the handbook for a few days before testing.

If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or come back another time. Each retake costs another $20. There is no waiting period between attempts, but the office may not have another test slot available when ready.

Instruction permit fees come after you pass the test

Once you pass the written test, you move to the instruction permit stage. The instruction permit itself costs money — the amount varies depending on how long you want it to last. A permit valid for one year costs less than one valid for four years. Check the current permit fee on the Colorado Department of Revenue website, as fees change periodically.

You do not pay the permit fee on test day. You pay it after you pass, when you explore for the permit at the same Driver License Office or online through the state portal.

Where to take the test in Colorado

You take the test at a Colorado Driver License Office. The state has offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you, check their hours, and book a test appointment on the Colorado Department of Revenue website. Some offices are open evenings or Saturdays, but hours vary by location.

You cannot take the adult learner's permit test online or by mail. It must be done in person at an official Driver License Office.

What happens if you do not pass

If you score below 80 percent, you fail and do not receive an instruction permit. You can retake the test when ready if the office has another slot, or you can schedule another appointment for a later date. Each retake costs $20.

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test in Colorado. Some people pass on the first try; others take it two or three times. Spending a few extra days studying the handbook usually improves your score on the second attempt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the test in Spanish?

Yes. Colorado offers the written knowledge test in Spanish at most Driver License Offices. When you schedule your appointment online or call ahead, let the office know which language you need. Not all offices have Spanish-language tests available every day, so confirm before you go.

Do I have to pay the $20 test fee if I fail?

Yes. Each time you take the test — whether you pass or fail — you pay $20. If you fail and retake it, that is another $20. There is no refund if you do not pass.

What if I lose my instruction permit after I pass the test?

You do not need to retake the written test. You can go to a Driver License Office and request a replacement permit for a fee. The replacement fee is usually lower than the original permit fee. You only retake the written test if your permit expires and you want a new one.

Can I pay the test fee online before I go?

No. You pay the $20 fee in person at the Driver License Office on the day you test. Bring cash or a debit or credit card. The office will not let you test without payment.

How long does the test take?

The actual test takes most people 15 to 30 minutes. You have up to one hour. Add time for check-in, ID verification, and getting your results — plan for 45 minutes to an hour total at the office.