Colorado permit requirements
Colorado instruction permit requirements
Colorado requires a first-time driver to obtain an instruction permit before practicing. The route combines the driving knowledge test, identity/address documents and a state driver-license transaction; age determines the education and supervised-practice requirements.
- Permitrequired before practice
- 12 monthsminor first-permit hold
- 50 / 10minor total / night hours
Core first-time steps
- Study the current Driver Handbook.
- Pass the driving knowledge test through an approved route.
- Bring the required documents and complete permit issuance at a state driver license office.
- Practice legally and complete any age-specific education requirements.
- Take the drive skills test with an approved third-party school.
If you are under 18
Colorado requires a minor to hold the first instruction permit for at least 12 months, be at least 16 before licensing and log 50 supervised hours including 10 at night. Extra driver-education or behind-the-wheel requirements depend on age.
Adult first-time drivers
Adults still begin with the knowledge-test and permit process, but the minor 12-month holding rule does not apply. Colorado's adult-permit instructions allow the drive skills test after the permit is issued.
Related Road to Permit guides
Official sources
- Colorado DMV — Permits and First-Time Driver License
- Colorado DMV — Driver Education
- Colorado DMV — Required Identification Documents
- Colorado DMV — Appointment Scheduling
- Colorado DMV — @Home Driving Knowledge Tests
- Colorado DMV — Driver Education School Locations
- Colorado DMV — State DMV Fees
- Colorado DMV — State and County DMVs
Independent study resource. Road to Permit is not affiliated with or endorsed by any DMV, DPS, FLHSMV or other government agency. Official state sources control if information changes.