Most teens are eager to get their learner's permits at age 15 and their licenses as soon as they turn 16. However, there are many reasons why someone might wait until they are over 18 to begin the driver's licensing process. The procedure in Colorado works a little differently depending on when you choose to begin.
New CO Driver's License (under 18)
Like many other states, Colorado employs a graduated licensing program for drivers under 18. This program imposes extra restrictions on young drivers, which are gradually removed as they get older and demonstrate consistent competence behind the wheel. Teens under 16 have to complete a Colorado Driver's Ed Course before they can take the Colorado learner's permit test. After getting their permit, they will have to log at least 50 hours of supervised driving and wait at least 12 months before taking the driver's license exam. For the first 2 years of having their license, they will have restrictions on the number of passengers they can carry and the hours at night they are allowed to drive.
New Colorado Driver's License (18+)
If you are over 18 and attempting to get your license for the first time, you will not be subject to the same restrictions as minors. You can walk into any Colorado DMV office and take your permit test. You don't even have to wait a minimum amount of time afterward to get your license. Any adult with a permit can make an appointment for their behind-the-wheel driving test and get their license at any time. You will immediately be granted the full privileges of a Class R license, without the restrictions.
Why You Should Take Colorado Driver's Education, Even If You Don't Have To
Just because the Colorado driver's license requirements don't make adults take a Driver's Ed course, it doesn't mean you shouldn't do it. There are many ways someone can learn to drive a car, but nothing nearly as comprehensive as a professional, state-approved 30-hour training program. These courses aren't designed to provide a bare-minimum understanding of how to get from Point A to Point B. They give a natural, comprehensive, and principled approach to understanding the rules of the road, street sign meanings, responsible driving behaviors, and important legal policies. Many car insurance companies even give significant discounts to Colorado drivers who have completed driver education.
You can take Colorado Driver's Ed either in person or online with any state-approved provider. Most people prefer to take it online for the ease and convenience of working on their own schedule. By taking the course and studying the Colorado driver handbook, you will become well-prepared for anything that shows up on the permit test or the driving test. The things you learn now will lay the foundation for lifetime of responsible driving.
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