We know that taking your Colorado road test can be nerve-wracking. With a little preparation and insight into the test itself, there's nothing to be worried about. This guide will make sure you know the specific requirements in Colorado, what you can expect on the road test itself and give our best practice tips. Here's exactly what you need to know to pass your Colorado road test.
What to know before your Colorado road test
First, you'll need to have a road test scheduled. There are no walk-ins. You can easily make a Colorado road test appointment online. Then, make sure you have the necessary paperwork. Check the glove compartment for the vehicle registration and insurance and make sure they're current. You'll need these when you check in at the DMV. Next, you'll need to make sure your vehicle meets all of the Colorado requirements and that you have a licensed driver to accompany you to your road test. We've listed them out for you in the next section, to make it easier to go through and check off each one.
Once you verified your road test, paperwork, and vehicle, it's time for more practice. Some states restrict where you can practice, but not so in Colorado. You can practice anywhere, so have at it! Specifically, we strongly recommend you practice in the neighborhood around the DMV where your road test is scheduled. This is most likely where your test will be, so get to know the area. 🙂
If you need a quick refresh on road signs and driving rules, feel free to reference the Colorado Drivers Manual.
What are the vehicle requirements for the Colorado road test?
If your car does not meet all of the requirements, you won't be able to test. Check these and check them again. Here's what your vehicle needs to have in Colorado:
- Current registration, insurance, and inspection sticker
- A windshield with no cracks or debris that would obstruct the view
- Key safety requirements: working speedometer, horn, rearview mirror, seatbelts, and windshield wipers
- Working doors: the driver and passenger doors must open from the inside and outside
- Working lights: brake lights, turn signal lights in front and back, headlights and taillights
- No service or warning lights illuminated on the dashboard, including low gas
- Tires: can't be bald or damaged
If you don't have a vehicle that meets all of these requirements or a licensed driver to take you to your road test, you have a few options. You can get a car through a driving school, see if a friend or family can accompany you with their car, or Skip offers a car and driver service for the Colorado road test which you can reserve ahead of time online.
What to know on the day of your Colorado road test
First, get to the DMV early! If you're late, the DMV will ask you to reschedule. We recommend arriving 15 minutes before your scheduled test time.
At check-in, the DMV will ask for your permit and the Driver's License of your sponsor. This is also when they'll ask for the car insurance and registration for the vehicle you'll use for your test. After checking in, then it's time for your test.
Before you begin the driving portion of your test, the DMV tester will go through the vehicle safety check. They'll ask you to show them the car's hazard lights, left and right blinker, emergency brake as well as hand signals.
The test itself is 10-15 minutes. It will go by quickly, so take your time. Every minute counts and you'll think and perform better if you don't rush. Most of the test will take place on the street, in actual traffic, not in a closed course like in some other states. The tester will most likely ask you to drive around the neighborhood right next to the DMV.
What driving maneuvers will be on the Colorado road test?
Here's what you can expect to be tested on during your Colorado road test:
- Left and right turns: Remember to turn into the same lane you are turning from and stay centered in the lane..
- Signaling: Be sure to signal at least 200 feet before your turn and cancel the signal after you've completed your turn.
- Stopping at intersections: Remember not to cross the white line at stop signs and crosswalks and keep an appropriate distance from the car in front of you (make sure you can see their rear wheels, as a good rule of thumb).
- Passing through intersections
- Lane changes and merging in traffic: Keep a steady speed and remember to look over your shoulder. 🙂
- Speed control: Keep your accelerations and decelerations smooth, your speed steady when changing lanes, and adjust appropriately to traffic conditions and weather.
- Observing: Remember to look of your shoulder before changing lanes, backing up or parking. Look left and right before passing through an intersection, use your mirrors and in general, always be looking. Examiners want to see that you're always aware of what's happening around you.
Lastly, during your road test, it's highly likely that your examiner will be taking notes. This is nothing to worry about! The examiner may simply be checking off requirements as you complete them. Keep your eyes on the road and not on your examiner, and you'll do just fine.
What happens after the Colorado road test?
Congratulations on making it this far! If you passed, your examiner will tell you where to go to get your temporary license, which is valid for 30 days. Your actual laminated license will come in the mail within 30 days.
If you didn't pass, not to worry, most people pass by their second try. The examiners are usually happy to talk through anything you missed. You can re-take the test as soon as the next day. Each time you take the road test, make sure you have a licensed driver and car. In the meantime, keep practicing and reschedule when you feel ready. 🙂