West · Instruction Permit
How to get your learner’s permit in Colorado
Colorado’s permit age depends on the education path you choose — as early as 15 with an approved driver education course. Every minor must hold the permit a full 12 months before licensing.
Colorado permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 15 — 15 with a driver education course; 15½ with a driver awareness program; 16 without either |
|---|---|
| Official name | Instruction Permit |
| Supervised practice | 50 hours, including 10 at night |
| Minimum holding period | 12 months |
| Issuing agency | Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in Colorado?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 15
- Practice hours
- 50 hours
- Waiting time
- 12 months
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 26/100. Easiest in the West: Alaska (#2) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? Wyoming makes you hold the permit for just 10 days — the next-shortest wait is 12× longer. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your Colorado permit date · ⚔️ Compare Colorado with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in Colorado
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 15 (15 with a driver education course; 15½ with a driver awareness program; 16 without either). If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official Colorado driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and Colorado’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of Colorado residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. Colorado requires 50 hours, including 10 at night. Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In Colorado, that's 12 months. Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Colorado learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Colorado?
The minimum age is 15 (15 with a driver education course; 15½ with a driver awareness program; 16 without either). Colorado calls this credential the Instruction Permit.
How many supervised driving hours does Colorado require?
Colorado requires 50 hours, including 10 at night. A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in Colorado?
The minimum holding period is 12 months before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in Colorado?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is Colorado an easy state to get licensed in?
Colorado ranks #46 of 50 on our Ease Score (26/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.