Colorado Learner’s Permit: A First-Time Teen Driver Guide

Colorado is one of the most beautiful states to drive so it’s no wonder why teens and new drivers want their license! The first step in getting behind the wheel is applying and receiving your learner’s permit. The learner’s permit is part of the state’s graduated licensing program.

The program helps new drivers ease into driving through testing and practice. After the permit, teens can upgrade to an unrestricted license.

This post shares what items teens need to present and how the steps required for earning their license.

How to Get a Colorado Learner’s Permit

A learner’s permit is a requirement regardless of age if you plan to get an unrestricted license. Those over 18 who failed their driving test are required to get one, too, but can jump right into the next steps of the licensing process.

The learner’s permit is divided into three types:

  • Driver education learner’s permit
  • Driver awareness learner’s permit
  • Minor learner’s permit

This starts at 15 – 15 ½ years old, 15 ½ – 16 years old, and 16 to 21 years old. Those starting at their earliest require taking a driver’s education program. This requirement loosens to either driver’s ed or a classroom experience, eventually not needing either if they’re between 16 to 21.

15 – 15 ½ Years Old

You must complete the driver’s ed classroom segment before applying for a Driver Education Permit.

  1. Submit proof of ID & residency
  2. Pass the knowledge and vision tests
  3. Submit an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (DR 2460)
  4. Provide proof of a driver’s ed classroom segment
  5. Pay the $16.80 fee

15 ½ to 16 Years Old

You must complete a driver’s ed course and awareness program or classroom course before applying for the Driver Awareness Permit.

  1. Submit proof of ID & residency
  2. Pass the knowledge and vision tests
  3. Submit an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (DR 2460)
  4. Provide proof of driver’s ed and classroom completion
  5. Pay the $16.80 fee

16 to 21 Years Old

You do not have driver’s ed and classroom requirements when applying for a Minor Instruction Permit.

  1. Submit proof of ID & residency
  2. Pass the knowledge test
  3. Submit an Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship (DR 2460)
  4. Pay the $16.80 fee

You are expected to get at least 50-hours of behind-the-wheel experience when holding your learner’s permit(s). This includes at least 10-hours of experience driving at night. Completing these steps, practice, and holding the permit for 1 year lets you apply for a license.

Getting Your Colorado Driver’s License

Meet the requirements set by the state’s graduated licensing program and you can upgrade your learner’s into an unrestricted license. When the time comes, see our Colorado Driver’s License Guide to complete the steps needed. Or, reference the guide if you’re a new, adult driver needing to quickly get licensed in the state.