Colorado · Handbook chapter 2 · 5 min read
Chapter 2: Your minor license, and how you can lose it
Colorado's graduated license: the 12-month permit hold, 50-hour log, behind-the-wheel training, the drive test, passenger and curfew limits, phone rules, and the ways any driver can lose a license.
Why this chapter matters
Colorado's graduated driver licensing (GDL) rules decide when you can drive alone, who can ride with you and how late you can be out. The exam also asks how a license can be suspended or revoked.
From permit to minor license
You can get a minor license at 16 once you meet the rules for your age:
| Age when you apply | Permit held | Driving log | Behind-the-wheel training |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 to 16 1/2 | 12 months | 50 hours, 10 at night | 6 hours with a driving school |
| 16 1/2 to 18 | 12 months | 50 hours, 10 at night | Not required |
| 18 to 21 | Not required | Not required | Not required |
- Log your hours on the DR 2324 Drive Time Log Sheets or the RoadReady app, signed by a parent, guardian or responsible adult.
- If you live more than 30 miles from a full-time driving school, you may swap the 6 behind-the-wheel hours for 12 extra logged hours, 62 in all. Bring a printed map of the route to the nearest school.
- From 18 you can take the driving test as soon as you have your permit.
The drive test
- Drive tests are given mostly by certified commercial driving schools; you must be at least 16.
- The examiner checks your car's brake lights, signals, seat belts, windshield, tires and that doors and windows open from inside. Only you and the examiner may be in the car.
- You are scored on turns, stops, intersections, lane changes, merging and general driving. Examiners look at lane choice, steering method (hand-over-hand or push-pull-slide), signaling, speed control, full stops and searching (looking left, right, left and over your shoulder).
- A backup camera or blind-spot warning may be used, but it does not replace looking yourself.
- If you fail, you must wait until the next business day to retest. Each retest has a $15.40 state fee.
Minor license limits
Passengers (under 18)
| Time with your license | Passengers allowed |
|---|---|
| First 6 months | No passengers under 21, unless a parent or another licensed adult driver is also in the car |
| Next 6 months | Only one passenger under 21 at a time |
| After 1 year or at 18 | No age limit |
Your siblings may ride at any time, and passengers under 21 are allowed in a medical emergency. Drivers under 18 may not carry more passengers than there are seat belts.
Curfew (first year)
No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are:
- with a parent or legal guardian,
- going to or from school or a school activity, or work, with a signed statement,
- in a medical emergency, or
- an emancipated minor.
Phones, belts and alcohol
- Drivers under 18 may not text or talk on a phone while driving, except to call police in an emergency.
- You and every passenger must wear seat belts.
- Even a trace of alcohol is punishable for a minor, and you can lose your license for drinking under age even when you are not driving.
Turning 21
Your minor license expires 20 days after your 21st birthday. Renew it on or after your birthday to get an adult license.
How any driver can lose a license
Your privilege can be suspended, revoked or canceled if you:
- reach the point total for suspension,
- are convicted of driving under the influence, or refuse an alcohol or drug test,
- leave the scene of a crash, or fail to report one when the law requires,
- give false information on an application, or lend or misuse your license,
- fail to pay a crash judgment or ordered child support,
- fail to show proof of insurance when an officer asks,
- miss a DMV re-examination, or
- are under 21 and convicted of buying or possessing alcohol.
You must also tell the DMV about a name or address change within 30 days, and new residents must get a Colorado license within 30 days.
Frequently asked questions
How long must I hold my permit before my license?
12 full months if you are under 18. From 18 there is no holding period.
Who can ride with me in my first six months?
No passengers under 21 unless a parent or another licensed adult driver is also in the car. Siblings, and passengers in a medical emergency, are the exceptions.
What is the curfew for new Colorado drivers?
In your first year with a minor license, no driving from midnight to 5 a.m., with exceptions for a parent or guardian, school, work, medical emergencies and emancipated minors.
Can I use my phone hands-free if I am 17?
No. Drivers under 18 may not talk or text on a phone while driving, except to call police in an emergency.
When does my minor license expire?
20 days after your 21st birthday.
Based on the Colorado Driver Handbook (Colorado DMV) and the DMV's permit and first license page, which is newer than the handbook and is followed where they differ.