Colorado Driver's Handbook and Study Guide
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is everything you need to study the Colorado Driver Handbook in Colorado. This guide links to the official handbook and breaks down the chapters and most-tested topics so you can prepare for your permit test.
Most-Tested Topics for Your Permit Test
Focus your study time on these topics. They appear most often on the Colorado permit knowledge test.
- Traffic signs and signals
- Right-of-way rules
- Speed limits
- Parking rules
- DUI/DWI laws
What Is in the Colorado Driver Handbook
Traffic Signs and Signals
Covers the meaning of regulatory, warning, and guide signs, plus traffic signal rules and flashing light procedures.
Right-of-Way Rules
Explains who goes first at intersections, crosswalks, roundabouts, and when merging onto highways.
Safe Driving Practices
Covers following distance, lane changes, passing, scanning for hazards, and driving in bad weather.
Parking Rules
Describes legal and illegal parking situations, parallel parking steps, and curb color meanings.
Alcohol and Drug Laws
Explains Colorado DUI and DWAI laws, BAC limits, implied consent, and penalties for impaired driving.
Mountain Driving
Covers steep grades, switchbacks, runaway truck ramps, and handling altitude-related driving challenges.
Colorado-Specific Information
Colorado's knowledge test has 25 questions and requires a 20-correct (80%) passing score. The handbook includes a section on mountain driving unique to Colorado, covering steep grades, switchbacks, and the use of lower gears on descents. Colorado distinguishes between DUI (0.08% BAC) and DWAI (0.05% BAC), both covered on the test.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can read the Colorado Driver Handbook online.
- Traffic signs and signals
- Right-of-way rules
- Speed limits
- Parking rules
- DUI/DWI laws
The Colorado Driver Handbook covers 6 chapters, from traffic signs and right-of-way rules to safe driving practices and state-specific laws.
Ready to Apply for Your Learner's Permit?
Once you have studied the handbook, the next step is applying for your permit at the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
View Colorado learner's permit requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) guidelines. Handbook content can change. Visit the official Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for the most current driver's handbook.