Colorado DMV to implement stricter learner’s permit requirements for young drivers in 2027

DENVER, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announces that starting on Jan. 1, 2027, getting a learner's permit will require more comprehensive training for young motorists.

According to the DMV, the state will update education standards for all permit applicants under the age of 21.

The DMV says these changes follow the passage of House Bill 24-1021, which was approved to enhance public safety and reduce traffic fatalities among young drivers. Now young drivers will receive formalized instruction before a permit is issued, according to officials.

The DMV says the key changes to learner's permit requirements are the following:

• Applicants Ages 15 through 17: Must complete an approved 30-hour driver education course (online or in-person) before receiving a permit. This eliminates previous exemptions that allowed 15½ to 16-year-olds to bypass the full course in favor of a 4-hour class.
• Applicants Ages 18 through 21: Must complete either the 30-hour driver education course or an intensive 4-hour driver awareness program before a permit is issued. Previously, this age group had no mandatory education requirements.
• Motorcycle Riders Under 21: Must successfully complete a motorcycle safety training program approved by the Colorado State Patrol.  

The DMV says outside of these new requirements, existing rules remain in place, meaning drivers under 18 must still hold their permit for a mandatory 12 months and complete a 50-hour supervised driving log. Drivers under 16 years and 6 months must also complete 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a driving instructor. 

According to officials, drivers who obtained their permit before Jan. 1 are exempt from the new requirements even if their driver's test is after that date.

For more details on the upcoming education requirement changes, click here.

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