How to Get Your Driver's License in Colorado
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Colorado. Colorado uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 17.
GDL Stages in Colorado
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
Intermediate License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 12 months
- Complete 50 hours supervised driving including 10 at night
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. for first 6 months
- No more than 1 passenger under 21 for first 6 months (increases to 3 after)
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Hold intermediate license for 12 months
- Clean driving record during intermediate period
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first 6 months unless for work, school, or an emergency.
- During the first 6 months, only 1 unrelated passenger under 21 is allowed. After 6 months, up to 3 unrelated passengers under 21 are permitted.
How restrictions lift: Passenger limits ease after 6 months. All restrictions lift at age 17 with a clean record.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to GDL requirements and may obtain a full license after passing knowledge and road tests.
Colorado-Specific Information
Colorado uses a two-phase passenger restriction that gradually increases the number of allowed teen passengers from 1 to 3 after the first 6 months, a stepped approach not common in other states.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 17 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Colorado.
Colorado uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first 6 months unless for work, school, or an emergency.
- During the first 6 months, only 1 unrelated passenger under 21 is allowed. After 6 months, up to 3 unrelated passengers under 21 are permitted.
Adults age 18 and older in Colorado can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to GDL requirements and may obtain a full license after passing knowledge and road tests.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Colorado learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Colorado.
Colorado drivers ed 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 guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles website for the most current information.