Driver education requirements are changing Jan. 1, 2027
Learn about the changes due to HB24-1021: Motor Vehicle Minor Driver Education | Department of Revenue
Getting a License: At a Glance
Welcome to Colorado's graduated driver licensing (GDL) program! Here, teens begin their journey with a permit, gain valuable practice, and then move on to a minor license. Once they turn 21, they can upgrade to an adult license. If you are over 21 and looking to obtain a permit, see adult permits.
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Get Your Permit
Complete education requirements, pass the written test, register, and visit a driver license office.
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Get Your Minor License
Practice driving, complete requirements, and pass your driving test.
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Upgrade to Adult License
Your minor license expires when you turn 21. Renew within 20 days to get your adult license.
Get Your Colorado Permit
A permit allows individuals to practice driving with a licensed driver. Permits are available for U.S. Citizens, Permanent Residents, Citizens of Freely Associated States, and Non-Lawfully Present and Temporarily Lawfully Present Residents.
• A permit is required if you've never had a license, or if your license has been expired/canceled for over 12 months (regardless of age).
• You must be at least 15 years old to get a Colorado learner’s permit
• You must hold your permit for a full 12 months OR until your 18th birthday, whichever comes first, before applying for a license.
• You must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 or older who is seated in the front passenger seat. The supervisor must have a valid Colorado Driver License (or Military ID and a valid Out-of-State License).
• Your permit is valid for three years or until your 21st birthday, whichever comes first.
Permit Requirements by Age
| Age at time of Permit Application | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Requirement | 15-15 1/2 | 15 1/2 - 16 (up to 16th birthday) | 16-17 | 18-21 |
| Driver Education | 30-hour driver education course | 30-hour course OR 4-hour driver awareness program | Not required | Not required |
| Pre-Registration Online | ||||
| Written Test | ||||
| Appointment | ||||
Legend: Required Not Required
Driver Education (required if under 16)
If you are under 16, you must complete a driver education or awareness course before applying for a permit.
Driver education is available from private providers. Please book your appointment directly through one of
the school or testing locations approved by the DMV.
• Age 15 years to 15 years and 6 months: Complete a 30-hour driver education course.
• Age 15 years and 6 months to 16 years: Complete either a 4-hour driver awareness program OR a 30-hour driver education course.
Pre-Register Online (required for all ages)
Complete the pre-registration before taking the written test and to get ready for your first DMV visit. After you finish, you'll receive an email confirmation and a PDF confirmation attachment.
Written Test (required for all ages)
The written test, or driving knowledge test, is required for all ages. Review the Driver’s Handbook and take the Practice Quiz located on the Driver Education webpage here.
- Option 1: Take the online @Home Driving Knowledge Test here. You will need to bring the confirmation that you passed the online test to the DMV (paper or electronic)
- Option 2: Take the in-office test. Schedule your appointment now. Once you pass the test, you may continue with the issuance of the permit at the same time as long as you bring the required documents shown in the What to Bring section. You must also pre-register online.
You can take the written test as many times as needed, but only twice in one day.
Retest Fees: There is a state fee of $11.50 for each time you retake the written permit test (in addition to regular testing fees). You can pay online or in person at your appointment.
For customers needing accommodations with the driving knowledge test, your options are to:
- Have the exam read by the testing station (bring plug-in headphones to your appointment).
- Have the exam verbally translated to another spoken language (test-taker must provide the translator).
- Have the exam translated to sign language (DMV provides this service, please see the information available here on ASL interpreters).
- Request other ADA accommodations.
- You can request ADA accommodations here: Americans with Disabilities Act Accommodation Request for Driver License Services.
- Take the test at home through our at-home testing webpage here.
Sí, ofrecemos la prueba tanto en inglés como en español en la oficina. Por el momento, no disponemos de la prueba en otros idiomas.
Yes, we provide testing in both English and Spanish in the office. We do not have the test in other languages at this time.
Appointment (required for all ages)
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Schedule Your Appointment
Make an appointment to finalize the permit issuance at a driver license office
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What to Bring
Bring all of the required documents to your appointment.
- Proof of identity (For example, a passport or a birth certificate. A school ID alone is not sufficient).
- Affidavit of Identity: Bring a parent or legal guardian and documents if you are under 21 and don’t have a government ID. The Affidavit of Identity will be provided at the appointment. It cannot be signed in advance of the appointment. The parent or legal guardian must bring:
- Proof of identity documents and
- Certified documents proving guardianship. Power of Attorney is not an acceptable proof of guardianship. Acceptable documents include:
- Birth certificate
- Court orders
- Adoption records
An Affidavit of Identity may be signed by a DMV-approved caseworker from a county human or social services agency or from the Colorado Division of Youth Services/Youth Corrections if the minor is a ward of the state or county. The DMV has a list of approved names who may sign this affidavit. The caseworker must also present:
- A certified court order showing that the minor has been placed in the custody of the county or, in the case of an approved youth services caseworker, a mittimus (a warrant issued by a court to commit someone to imprisonment) showing that the minor has been placed in the custody or the Division of Youth Services (or, for older versions, the Division of Youth Corrections).
- Their county caseworker ID card or Youth Services/Youth Corrections ID card.
- An identity document consistent with the rules (usually a Colorado driver license).
- Affidavit of Liability (under 18 only): Bring a parent, guardian, or responsible adult 21 or older with a valid Colorado driver license (or active military ID with valid out-of-state license) to your appointment to sign the DR 2460 Affidavit of Liability form. The signer will be required to show their driver license at the time of signing.
If you are under 18 and your parent or legal guardian can’t come to your appointment, you must bring a DR 2460 Affidavit of Liability that has been signed and notarized. Forms signed at home without a notary will not be accepted.
- Signature requirements: The signer must be over 21 and the affidavit must be signed in the presence of a driver license employee or a Notary Public.
- Signer’s responsibility: The signer must:
- Either accompany the minor to their appointment to sign the form; or have the document signed and notarized for the minor’s appointment.
- Be willing to assume financial responsibility for any accident caused by the minor.
- Accompany the minor to any hearing related to the minor’s driver license or instruction permit.
- Signer's required credentials: The signer must hold ONE of the following:
- A valid Colorado driver license (must be shown at the appointment).
- A valid driver license from another state with proper Active Duty military identification (must be shown at the appointment).
- Exception: If the parent or legal guardian does not hold a valid Colorado DL, they may appoint an Alternate Permit Supervisor on the affidavit to supervise the minor while learning to drive.
- Withdrawing signature: The signature can be withdrawn by completing and submitting a Signature Withdrawal form (DR 2464) at a driver license office.
- Change of signer: After a signature is withdrawn, a new DR 2460 must be signed by the new party, and a new permit will be issued (an appropriate fee will be charged). This must be completed in office.
- If a minor wants to add or remove their registration as an organ and tissue donor, a new Affidavit of Liability must be completed with the same signer, unless the signer withdraws their signature.
- Driver education or driver awareness course completion confirmation (ages 15-16): Bring your completion confirmation page (printed or on your phone) or have the email with the confirmation page attached with you.
- Online written test passing confirmation: Bring the Certificate of Completion with you (paper or electronic).
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During Your Appointment
At your appointment, you will:
- Take a vision test (bring glasses or contacts if you use them)
- Provide fingerprints
- Have your photo taken (you’ll need to remove glasses, hats, and bulky clothing)
- Pay the required fee
- Your parent or legal guardian will sign an Affidavit of Identity (if required)
- A parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult 21 or older will sign an Affidavit of Liability (if under 18)
Here is a list of things a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult will need to bring or do at an appointment for a minor to get a Colorado driving permit or first-time driver license:
- Provide Your Identification: The parent, legal guardian, or adult will need to present their valid Colorado driver license (or military ID and Out-of-State DL) at the time of the appointment.
- You must sign an Affidavit of Liability (Under 18): The parent, legal guardian, or adult will be required to sign the Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (DR 2460).
- You may need to sign an Affidavit of Identity and bring proof of guardianship (If applicable for minors under 21): If the minor (UNDER 21) does not have a government-issued ID, Passport, or Military ID (school ID alone does not count as government-issued identification), a parent or legal guardian must:
- Sign an Affidavit of Identity (provided at the appointment).
- Bring certified documents proving guardianship (such as Birth Certificate, Court orders, adoption records, etc.). Power of Attorney is not acceptable.
- Provide the parent or guardian’s identity documents (acceptable list is on the Required Documents checklist)
- You can use your address as the minor's Proof of Address: A parent’s proof of address can be used for a minor (under 21) as long as the parent is present and the parent’s name is on the proof of address document. The parent’s Colorado driver license or ID can count as one proof of address if the address is up-to-date.
- You will need TWO proofs of address.
- Other Items:
- Be prepared to pay the applicable fee.
- Bring proof that the minor has passed the written test (if taken online or at a 3rd party school).
- If the minor wears glasses or contacts, ensure they bring them for the eye exam.
- For a driver license appointment, please have the completed and signed Drive Time Log Sheets printed
and ready. - If requesting an exemption from the 6-hour Behind-the-Wheel (BTW) training, you will need to bring a
printed map showing the route from your home to the nearest full-time driving school to prove you live
outside the 30-mile radius.
- Translation devices available at all offices.
- You may bring a friend, family member, or interpreter to help interpret at your appointment. They must present valid ID.
- If your document is not in English, you must bring the original document and a complete English translation. Learn more about the documents that are required for your situation.
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Receive Your Permit
You will receive a temporary paper permit during your appointment. The physical card will be mailed within 30 days.
There are several different ways you can check when it will be delivered:
- You can check online: Where is my license/permit/ID?
- Email the Returned Credential Office at dor_dmv_dl_returned_credentials@state.co.us
- Call 303-205-5600 (press 1, then press 3)
- Return to the office that issued your credential (you do not need an appointment for this)
- Didn't receive your credential within 30 days? Learn about how to get a replacement.
Restrictions While Driving with a Permit
You must drive with a licensed adult who:
- Is 21 or older
- Sits in the front passenger seat, and
- Has a valid Colorado driver license (or Military ID and a valid Out-of-State License)
Always research each specific state's laws and requirements or contact the state DMV beforehand to avoid potential violations.
If moving to that state, be prepared to do an out-of-state transfer if permitted by that state. Be aware that some states do not transfer driving privileges from a permit and will require you to test again.
Next Steps: Practice with Your Permit
If you are under 18, you’ll need to have your permit for at least 12 months from the date the permit was issued before applying for a minor license. During this time, you’ll need to log at least at least 50 total hours of supervised driving. 10 hours of the 50 hours must be driven at night. And, if you are under 16 1/2 years old, you’ll also need to complete Behind-the-Wheel training with a 3rd party instructor.
After you turn 18, you may take the driving skills test and apply for a license at any time after receiving your permit.
Upgrade to a Minor License
A minor license allows individuals to drive on their own with gradually fewer passenger and curfew restrictions during the first year of licensure.
- To get your minor license, you must be at least 16 years old and complete all requirements. You can upgrade online (easiest) if you have no changes to your name or driving privileges (such as having your permit suspended).
- Your minor license expires 20 days after your 21st birthday. You must renew/convert to an adult license by this date.
- When you renew your minor license on or after your 21st birthday, you convert it to an adult license.
Minor License Requirements by Age
| Age at time of License Application | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirement | 16-16 ½ | 16 ½ -18 (up to 18th birthday) | 18-21 |
| Permit Holding Period | At least 12 months | At least 12 months | Not required |
| Logged Supervised Driving Hours | At least 50 hours of driving experience, 10 of which must be at night | At least 50 hours of driving experience, 10 of which must be at night | Not required |
| Behind-the-Wheel Training with a 3rd Party | 6 hours at 3rd party driving school | Not required | Not required |
| Driving Test by a 3rd Party (must be at least 16) | |||
| Upgrade Your Permit to a License | |||
Legend: Required Not required
Logged Supervised Driving Hours (required if under 18)
Permit holders under 18 must log at least 50 total hours of supervised driving. 10 hours of the 50 hours must be driven at night. You must log their driving hours using one of the following:
- Drive Time Log Sheets (DR 2324)
- Must print and bring to the in-person license appointment.
- RoadReady mobile app
- Must print the log sheet for the in-person license appointment.
If you will be turning 18 before you have held your permit a year, you do not need a driver time log.
Behind-the-Wheel Training with a 3rd Party (if under 16 1/2)
Permit holders under 16 years and 6 months old must complete 6 hours of in the car driving with an approved 3rd party driving school. Driver education and testing is available from private providers. Please book your appointment directly through one of the school or testing locations approved by the DMV.
If you live more than 30 miles from an approved full-time driving school, you can substitute the 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training at a driving school with 12 additional hours of supervised driving. This means you must log 62 total supervised driving hours instead of 50.
You must upgrade your permit to a license in person if you request this exemption.
Driving Test by a 3rd Party (required, must be at least 16)
You must be at least 16 years old to take the driving test. Driver education and testing is available from private providers. Please book your appointment directly through one of the school or testing locations approved by the DMV (the DMV does not book these appointments).
If you don’t pass the driving test on your first attempt, you can retake the driving test once per day, starting the day after you fail.
Important note on retest fees: There is a state fee of $15.40 for each time you retake the driving test (in addition to regular testing fees). You can pay online (account required) or in person (appointment required).
Upgrade Your Permit to a License
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Upgrade Online or In-Person
If you have no changes to your name and you are not requesting a Behind-the-Wheel training exemption, you can upgrade online.
If you are under 18, you will need to upload a signed driving log sheet.
The signed driving log sheet must show a minimum total of 50 hours, with 10 hours of those 50 hours having
been driven at night,When submitting your driving logs, either by using the drive logs given to you at your permit appointment or the drive logs provided through the RoadReady app, please make sure that:
- Your name is clearly legible on the top of the drive log,
- The hours and total drive time are filled in correctly, and
- It is signed by a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult.
Option 2: Upgrade in-person
Schedule your appointment here: Welcome to the Appointment Scheduling Information Page.
- Valid permit
- Driving Log
- Name Changes: Bring necessary name change documents. To find out what you need to bring, view
the Manage Your Name Change page. - Address Changes: You can change your address online. If you choose to come into an office, you must bring TWO different documents to prove you live in Colorado. Electronic versions on your phone are acceptable, you will need to show them. Your address documents must:
- Show your full name
- Show your current physical Colorado address
- No P.O. Boxes
- Be dated within the last year
- Behind the Wheel Training Exemption (If Applicable): If you are requesting the 30 mile exemption,
you will need to bring a printed map of the route from your home to the nearest full time driving school.
Your driving log must show an additional 12 hours of supervised drive time for a total of 62 logged hours
of driving. - Fee: You will need to pay the applicable fee. For more information on fees, view the Fees page.
To view a full list of acceptable documents, view the Required Documents page.
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Receive Your License
If you upgraded online: Your receipt and the expired/prior physical permit together serve as your
temporary license. Your physical card will be mailed within 30 days.If you upgraded in person: You will receive a paper temporary license if you upgrade in person. Your
physical card will be mailed within 30 days.To be fully compliant with Colorado law, ensure you have the paper temporary license with you while
operating a motor vehicle until your new, permanent physical card arrives in the mail.There are several different ways you can check when it will be delivered:
- You can check online: Where is my license/permit/ID?
- dor_dmv_dl_returned_credentials@state.co.us
- Call 303-205-5600 (press 1, then press 3)
- Return to the office that issued your credential (you do not need an appointment for this)
- Didn't receive your credential within 30 days? Learn about how to get a replacement.
Restrictions While Driving with a Minor License
The restrictions of Colorado's Graduated Driver's License (GDL) program for minors are designed to gradually introduce driving privileges and are primarily focused on passenger limits and curfew hours during the first year of licensure.
Colorado GDL Passenger and Curfew Restrictions
The following chart details the main passenger and night driving restrictions during the first year you hold a
minor license.
| Restriction Type | Time Period | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Limit | First 6 months | Only passengers 21 years or older may ride with you |
| Passenger Limit | Next 6 months | Only passengers 21 years or older may ride with you |
| Passenger Limit | After 1 year OR after you turn 18 | You may have passengers in the vehicle with no age restrictions |
| Driving Curfew | First year | Driving is not allowed between midnight and 5 a.m. |
Passenger Exceptions (apply at any time)
- Siblings: Your siblings may ride with you at any time.
- Medical Emergency: You may carry passengers under 21 years old if you are involved in a medical emergency.
Curfew Exceptions (First Year: Midnight to 5 a.m.)
You are allowed to drive between midnight and 5 a.m. during your first year if you are:
- Accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- Driving to/from school or a school-authorized activity (signed statement from school is required).
- Driving to/from work (signed statement from employer is required).
- Involved in a medical emergency.
- An emancipated minor.
Safety and Legal Rules
- Cell Phones: Texting or talking on a cell phone while driving is against the law for drivers under 18 years old. The only exception is to place an emergency call to the police.
- Seat Belts: You and all passengers must wear seat belts at all times.
- Alcohol: Even a trace of alcohol is punishable by law. You can lose your driver's license if you drink under the legal age limit, even if you are not driving.
Next Steps: Renew Your License When You Turn 21
Your minor license expires 20 days after your 21st birthday and can be renewed no earlier than your 21st birthday.
Renew for an Adult License (Age 21)
If you are turning 21, you must apply for an adult driver license, permit, or identification card on or after your 21st birthday. Your minor license expires 20 days after your 21st birthday and can be renewed no earlier than your 21st birthday.
- If none of the information on your license has changed or only your address has changed, you can renew your license and get an adult license online.
- If your name has changed, you will need to make an appointment to go in to a driver license office. Get information on scheduling an appointment.
Looking to get an adult permit? Learn more about adult permits.
Looking to downgrade to a non-driver ID?
You can apply to downgrade your driver license to a state ID card either online via the myDMV Colorado portal here or in-person by scheduling an appointment. Exception: Temporarily Lawfully Present license holders cannot downgrade their license to an identification card online.
Moving to Colorado with a Valid Out-of-State Permit
If you are under 21 and move from another state with a permit, you must apply for a Colorado permit or license within 30 days of moving.
- Your permit time counts towards your Colorado license requirements.
- There are still specific Colorado educational and testing requirements based on age.
- Appointment required: Even though you have an out-of-state permit, you still need to visit a DMV office to get a Colorado-issued one.
If you already have a driver license and are transferring from another state, the New to Colorado page has information about residency requirements, driver license identification requirements, and vehicle title and registration guidance.
If you have a valid out-of-state permit and are 15 years old, you must apply for a Colorado permit within 30 days of moving. Even though you have an out-of-state permit, you still need to visit a DMV office to get a Colorado-issued one.
If you have a valid out-of-state permit, you do not need to take the written test again.
Requirements
- Driver Education: Driver education is available from private providers. Please book your appointment directly through one of the school locations approved by the DMV.
- Age 15 years to 15 years and 6 months: Complete a 30-hour driver education course.
- Age 15 years and 6 months to 16 years: Complete either a 4-hour driver awareness program OR a 30-hour driver education course.
- Already completed a course in another state? Colorado often accepts out-of-state driver education certificates. You may choose to bring your completion certificate from your previous state to the DMV to see if it meets Colorado requirements.
- Pre-Register Online: Complete the pre-registration to get ready for your first DMV visit. After you finish, you'll receive an email confirmation and a PDF confirmation attachment.
- Appointment: You must make an appointment to visit a state driver license office. Some county offices also offer driver services. Please check to see if a county near you issues permits or licenses.
What to bring to your appointment
- Out-of-state permit (valid or expired less than a year): If you do not have your out-of-state permit, you will need a motor vehicle report (dated within 30 days and showing a permit that is valid or expired less than a year).
- Proof of identity (for example: passport or birth certificate; school ID’s alone are not sufficient proof)
- Affidavit of Identity: Bring a parent or legal guardian and documents if you are under 21 and don’t have a government ID. The Affidavit of Identity will be provided at the appointment. It cannot be signed in advance of the appointment. The parent or legal guardian must bring:
- Proof of identity documents and
- Certified documents proving guardianship. Power of Attorney is not an acceptable proof of guardianship. Acceptable documents include:
- Birth certificate
- Court orders
- Adoption records
- Affidavit of Liability (under 18 only): Bring a parent, guardian, or responsible adult 21 or older with a valid Colorado driver license (or active military ID with valid out-of-state license) to your appointment to sign the DR 2460 Affidavit of Liability form. The signer will be required to show their driver license at the time of signing.
- Driver education or driver awareness course completion confirmation (required for ages 15-16): Bring your completion confirmation page (printed or on your phone) or have the email with the confirmation page attached with you. Colorado often accepts some out-of-state driver education certificates. You may choose to bring your completion certificate from your previous state to the DMV to see if it meets our standards.
At your appointment
- At your appointment, you will:
- Take a vision test (bring glasses or contacts if you use them)
- Provide fingerprints
- Have your photo taken (you’ll need to remove glasses, hats, and bulky clothing)
- Pay the required fee
- Your parent or legal guardian will sign an Affidavit of Identity (if required)
- A parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult 21 or older will sign an Affidavit of Liability (if under 18)
- You will receive a temporary paper permit during your appointment. The physical card will be mailed within
30 days.
After you get your permit
You must drive with a licensed adult who:
- Is 21 or older
- Sits in the front passenger seat
- Has a valid Colorado driver license (or Military ID and a valid Out-of-State License).
If you are under 18, you’ll need to have your permit for at least 12 months from the date the permit was issued before applying for a minor license. During this time, you’ll need to log at least at least 50 total hours of supervised driving. 10 hours of the 50 hours must be driven at night. And, if you are under 16 1/2 years old, you’ll also need to complete Behind-the-Wheel training with a 3rd party instructor.
The driving test and upgrading process is the same as in state permit holders.
If you have a valid out-of-state permit, you may take the Colorado driving test ONE TIME without first getting a Colorado permit if you meet all requirements below.
Requirements
- Permit hold period: You must have held a valid permit (out-of-state or Colorado) for at least 12 months.
- Logged supervised driving hours: You must have logged a minimum total of 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours of driving at night. Driving hours logged in your previous state can be applied toward the total. The log must be signed by a parent, guardian, or other responsible adult.
- Behind-the-wheel training with a 3rd party (if under 16 1/2):
- 16 years to 16 years and 6 months: Complete 6 hours of in the car driving with an approved 3rd party driving school. View approved driving schools.
- 16 years and 6 months and older: No behind-the-wheel training required
- Distance exemption: If you live more than 30 miles from an approved full-time driving school, you can substitute the 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training at a driving school with 12 additional hours of supervised driving. This means you must log 62 total supervised driving hours instead of 50.
- Driving test by a 3rd party (must be at least 16): Driver education and testing is available from private providers. Please book your appointment directly through one of the school or testing locations approved by the DMV. The DMV cannot book these appointments.
- If you pass the driving test, you must make an appointment to get your license.
- If you fail the driving test, you must get a Colorado permit to be able to take the driving skills test again. Follow the instructions in Getting a Colorado permit (age 15).
- Important note on retest fees: There is a state fee of $15.40 for each time you retake the driving test (in addition to regular testing fees). You can pay online or in person (appointment required).
What to bring to your appointment
- Proof of identity (for example: passport or birth certificate; school ID’s alone are not sufficient proof)
- Affidavit of Identity: Bring a parent or legal guardian and documents if you are under 21 and don’t have a government ID. The Affidavit of Identity will be provided at the appointment. It cannot be signed in advance of the appointment. The parent or legal guardian must bring:
- Proof of identity documents and
- Certified documents proving guardianship. Power of Attorney is not an acceptable proof of guardianship. Acceptable documents include:
- Birth certificate
- Court orders
- Adoption records
- Affidavit of Liability (under 18 only): Bring a parent, guardian, or responsible adult 21 or older with a valid Colorado driver license (or active military ID with valid out-of-state license) to your appointment to sign the DR 2460 Affidavit of Liability form. The signer will be required to show their driver license at the time of signing.
- Driver education or driver awareness course completion confirmation (required for ages 15-16): Bring your completion confirmation page (printed or on your phone) or have the email with the confirmation page attached with you. Colorado often accepts some out-of-state driver education certificates. You may choose to bring your completion certificate from your previous state to the DMV to see if it meets our standards.
At your appointment
At your appointment, you will:
- Take a vision test (bring glasses or contacts if you use them)
- Provide fingerprints
- Have your photo taken (you’ll need to remove glasses, hats, and bulky clothing)
- Pay the required fee
- Your parent or legal guardian will sign an Affidavit of Identity (if required)
- A parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult 21 or older will sign an Affidavit of Liability (if under 18)
You will receive a temporary paper permit during your appointment. The physical card will be mailed within 30 days. To be fully compliant with Colorado law, ensure you have the paper temporary license with you while operating a motor vehicle until your new, permanent physical card arrives in the mail.
Where’s my license? There are several different ways you can check when it will be delivered:
- You can check online: Where is my license/permit/ID?
- dor_dmv_dl_returned_credentials@state.co.us
- Call 303-205-5600 (press 1, then press 3)
- Return to the office that issued your credential (you do not need an appointment for this)
- Didn't receive your credential within 30 days? Learn about how to get a replacement.
After you get your license
You must follow the restrictions while driving with a minor license.
Your minor license expires 20 days after your 21st birthday and can be renewed no earlier than your 21st birthday.
If you have a valid out-of-state permit and are 18-21 years old, you must purchase a new Colorado permit before getting your license.
You do not need to take the written test again or complete driver education.
Permit Requirements
- Pre-Register Online: Complete the pre-registration to get ready for your first DMV visit. After you finish, you'll receive an email confirmation and a PDF confirmation attachment.
- Appointment: You must make an appointment to visit a state driver license office. Some county offices also offer driver services. Please check to see if a county near you issues permits or licenses.
What to bring to your permit appointment
- Proof of identity (for example: passport or birth certificate; school ID’s alone are not sufficient proof)
- Affidavit of Identity (if under 21 and don’t have a government ID): Bring a parent or legal guardian and documents if you are under 21 and don’t have a government ID. The Affidavit of Identity will be provided at the appointment. It cannot be signed in advance of the appointment. The parent or legal guardian must bring:
- Proof of identity documents and
- Certified documents proving guardianship. Power of Attorney is not an acceptable proof of guardianship. Acceptable documents include:
- Birth certificate
- Court orders
- Adoption records
At your permit appointment
At your appointment, you will:
- Take a vision test (bring glasses or contacts if you use them)
- Provide fingerprints
- Have your photo taken (you’ll need to remove glasses, hats, and bulky clothing)
- Pay the required fee
Your parent or legal guardian will sign an Affidavit of Identity (if required) - A parent, legal guardian, or responsible adult 21 or older will sign an Affidavit of Liability (if under 18)
You will receive a temporary paper permit during your appointment. The physical card will be mailed within 30 days. To be fully compliant with Colorado law, ensure you have both the paper temporary license and your previous physical permit with you while operating a motor vehicle until your new, permanent physical card arrives in the mail.
After you get your permit
You must drive with a licensed adult who:
- Is 21 or older,
- Sits in the front passenger seat, and
- Has a valid Colorado driver license (or Military ID and a valid Out-of-State License).
After you turn 18, you may take the driving skills test and apply for a license at any time after receiving your permit.
License requirements
- Driving test by a 3rd party (must be at least 16): Driver education and testing is available from private providers. Please book your appointment directly through one of the school or testing locations approved by the DMV. The DMV cannot book these appointments.
Upgrade Your Permit to a License
- Option 1: Upgrade online
- If you have no changes to your name, you can upgrade online!
- Your receipt and the expired/prior physical permit together serve as your temporary license. Your physical card will be mailed within 30 days.
- Option 2: Upgrade In-person
- Schedule your appointment here: Welcome to the Appointment Scheduling Information Page.
- Bring name change documents if needed. Learn more about how to Manage Your Name Change.
- You will receive a temporary paper permit during your appointment. The physical card will be mailed within 30 days. To be fully compliant with Colorado law, ensure you have both the paper temporary license and your previous physical permit with you while operating a motor vehicle until your new, permanent physical card arrives in the mail.
Where’s my license? There are several different ways you can check when it will be delivered:
- You can check online: Where is my license/permit/ID?
- dor_dmv_dl_returned_credentials@state.co.us
- Call 303-205-5600 (press 1, then press 3)
- Return to the office that issued your credential (you do not need an appointment for this)
- Didn't receive your credential within 30 days? Learn about how to get a replacement.
After you get your license
You must follow the restrictions while driving with a minor license.
Your minor license expires 20 days after your 21st birthday and can be renewed no earlier than your 21st birthday.
Moving to Colorado from Another Country
Some countries have reciprocity agreements with Colorado that waives written and drive testing for new residents with valid out-of-country licenses (not applicable to permits) If it has been more than a year since you have had a U.S. driver license, be prepared to take a written test, purchase a permit, take a driving test, and purchase a new driver license. Check this list to find out if your country has one of these agreements.
All other new residents who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents must apply for a standard credential and complete all the requirements for a Colorado permit and/or license.