Theory & knowledge test guide · 2026
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How to pass the Colorado permit test

To get a Colorado instruction permit you pass the DMV's driving knowledge test. You can take it at home with the DMV's @Home testing, then finish the permit at a driver license office.

The test

  • Multiple-choice questions on Colorado traffic laws, road signs and safe driving, from the Colorado Driver Handbook.
  • The free Colorado mock tests on PassDriveTest use 25 questions with 20 needed (80%).
  • From 2027, retests carry a fee and you may take only two tests per day.

Taking it at home (@Home testing)

  • Pre-register on myDMV.Colorado.gov.
  • Use any desktop or laptop with a front-facing camera, at any time.
  • First attempt: $5 testing fee plus $1.50 card processing. From 1 April 2026 a $11.50 state DMV fee also applies, paid in office or through myDMV.
  • After you pass, schedule a visit to a state driver license office to get your instruction permit.

Teen permit steps (applications in 2026)

  • Age 15 to 15½: complete a 30-hour driver education course first.
  • Age 15½ to 16: you may complete the 4-hour driver awareness program instead, within 180 days before applying.
  • Age 16 to 17: no course is required before the permit.
  • A parent, guardian or other eligible adult signs the affidavit of liability and comes to the appointment with you.
  • Drive only with a licensed driver over 21 in the vehicle.
  • Hold the permit at least 12 months and log 50 hours of supervised driving, 10 at night, before your minor license. If you apply for your license before 16½, you also need behind-the-wheel training.

Changes from 1 January 2027

Under HB24-1021, permit applicants aged 15 to 17 must complete the 30-hour course (the 4-hour option for 15½-year-olds ends), and applicants aged 18 to 20 must complete the 30-hour course or the 4-hour driver awareness course. Course certificates are valid for six months, so the DMV suggests teens applying in early 2027 take their course in late 2026.

A study plan that works

  1. Read the Colorado Driver Handbook and try the DMV's practice quiz.
  2. Learn the signs on the Colorado road signs tab.
  3. Take full mock tests and review every wrong answer.
  4. Aim for 23 or more out of 25 on several different mock tests.

Take a free Colorado mock test to see where you stand.

Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.