Colorado offers the written permit test online through a third-party vendor, but you cannot take the full exam at home — you must complete it at an approved testing location
Colorado's written permit test (the knowledge test) is available through Pearson VUE, a testing company that operates testing centers across the state. You can schedule your test online and take it at a physical location, but Colorado does not allow remote proctoring for the permit exam. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices specific to Colorado.
The exam costs $10 and you must pass with a score of 80 percent or higher. You have up to three attempts within a 12-month period if you do not pass on your first try. Each retake also costs $10.
You do not need to take the test in person at a DMV office. Instead, you schedule it through Pearson VUE's online system, choose a testing center near you, and show up at that location on your scheduled date and time.
Key Takeaways
- Schedule your permit test online through Pearson VUE, but you must take the exam at a physical testing center, not at home.
- The test costs $10 per attempt, and you need a score of 80 percent or higher to pass.
- You have three chances to pass within 12 months, and each retake costs $10.
- Bring a valid photo ID and your Social Security number or Colorado ID number to the testing center on test day.
How to Schedule Your Permit Test Online
Go to the Pearson VUE website and search for Colorado DMV testing. You will create an account, enter your personal information, and select a testing center location and time that works for you. Colorado has Pearson VUE testing centers in most cities and towns, so you should have multiple options within a reasonable distance.
When you schedule, you will pay the $10 test fee online using a credit or debit card. You will receive a confirmation email with your test date, time, location, and a confirmation number. Save this email — you will need the confirmation number when you arrive at the testing center.
You can schedule your test as soon as you have your learner's permit (also called a permit or instruction permit in Colorado). Your permit is issued by the DMV after you pass a vision screening and submit the required documents.
What to Bring to the Testing Center
Bring your valid photo ID — a passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. You must also bring your Social Security number or Colorado ID number. The testing center staff will verify your identity before you sit for the exam.
Do not bring your phone, smartwatch, or any electronic devices into the testing room. Do not bring notes, study materials, or anything else that could be used to cheat. The testing center has strict rules about what you can have with you during the exam.
Arrive at least 15 minutes early so staff can check you in and verify your documents. If you arrive late, you may not be allowed to take the test and you will lose your $10 fee.
What the Permit Test Covers
The Colorado permit test has 25 multiple-choice questions. You have 30 minutes to complete it. The test covers traffic signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, and safe driving practices. Questions also cover Colorado-specific rules like how to handle mountain driving and what to do at a four-way stop.
You can study using the Colorado Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the Colorado DMV website. The handbook contains all the information you need to pass the test. Many people also use online practice tests to get familiar with the question format before test day.
The test is given in English only. If you need the test in another language, contact the Colorado DMV directly to ask about your options — some accommodations may be available, but they require advance notice.
If You Do Not Pass on Your First Try
If you score below 80 percent, you can retake the test. You must wait at least one day before scheduling your second attempt. You can schedule your next test through the Pearson VUE website the same way you scheduled your first one, and you will pay another $10 fee.
You have three total attempts within a 12-month period. If you do not pass all three attempts, you will have to wait 12 months from the date of your first test before you can try again. Use the time between attempts to study the Colorado Driver Handbook more thoroughly and take practice tests online.
After You Pass the Permit Test
Once you pass, Pearson VUE will send your passing score to the Colorado DMV electronically. You do not have to do anything — the DMV will receive your score automatically. Your learner's permit will then be valid for the supervised driving period required by Colorado law.
As a permit holder, you must follow Colorado's graduated driver licensing rules. You must have a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front seat with you at all times. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 4 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work or school.
After you have held your permit for the required time and completed the supervised driving hours, you can schedule your road test (the driving test) through the Colorado DMV. The road test is separate from the permit test and is taken with a DMV examiner.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not assume you can take the test at a DMV office without scheduling through Pearson VUE first. You must schedule online and take it at a Pearson VUE testing center. Showing up at a DMV office without an appointment will not work.
Do not wait until the last minute to schedule. Testing centers can fill up, especially in busy areas, so schedule at least a week in advance if you can. If you need a test date urgently, check availability in nearby towns — you may have more options there.
Do not bring your phone into the testing room, even if you think you will not use it. Testing centers have strict policies and will not allow you to take the test if you have a phone with you. Leave it in your car or at home.
Do not skip studying the Colorado Driver Handbook. The test is designed to make sure you know the rules of the road, and studying the handbook is the best way to prepare. Practice tests online can help, but they are not a substitute for reading the actual handbook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Colorado permit test from home?
No. Colorado requires you to take the permit test at a Pearson VUE testing center in person. You can schedule the test online, but you must go to a physical location to take it. Remote testing is not available for the permit exam.
How long does the permit test take?
You have 30 minutes to complete the 25-question exam. Most people finish in 15 to 20 minutes. You do not have to use all 30 minutes, but you cannot go over the time limit.
What happens if I fail the permit test?
You can retake it after waiting at least one day. You have three attempts within 12 months. If you fail all three, you must wait 12 months from your first test date before you can try again. Each retake costs $10.
Do I need to bring my learner's permit to the testing center?
No. You need a valid photo ID and your Social Security number or Colorado ID number. Your learner's permit is not required, though you can bring it if you have it.
Can I use a practice test to study instead of reading the handbook?
Practice tests are helpful for getting used to the question format, but they are not a complete substitute for the Colorado Driver Handbook. Read the handbook first, then use practice tests to check what you have learned.