Mile High Driver Training is a Denver-based driving school that teaches behind-the-wheel skills to new and experienced drivers
Mile High Driver Training operates as a private driving instruction business in the Denver area, offering one-on-one lessons in dual-control vehicles. The school focuses on teaching defensive driving techniques, helping students prepare for the Colorado driving test, and building confidence behind the wheel. Unlike a public DMV testing site, this is a commercial service — you pay for lessons directly, and the instruction is optional, not required by law.
The school's instructors are certified by the state and trained to work with drivers at different skill levels, from teenagers taking their first lessons to adults returning to driving after time away. Lessons typically happen in the student's choice of vehicle or in one of the school's cars, depending on the package selected.
Key Takeaways
- Mile High Driver Training is a private, for-profit driving school in Denver — not a government agency — and lessons are optional, not required to get a license.
- The school offers behind-the-wheel instruction in dual-control vehicles, meaning the instructor can brake or steer if needed during the lesson.
- Instructors are state-certified, and the school can prepare you for the Colorado driving test, but passing the test itself happens at your local DMV office.
- Costs vary by package and lesson length; you should contact the school directly for current pricing and availability.
- Lessons can be scheduled around your calendar, though availability may vary depending on instructor schedules and season.
How the lesson structure works
Mile High Driver Training typically offers lessons ranging from one to two hours, with the option to book single sessions or packages of multiple lessons. A standard lesson usually includes time on city streets, highway driving, or parking practice — the instructor tailors the focus based on what the student needs most work on.
The dual-control setup means the instructor has a brake pedal and steering wheel controls on their side of the car. This allows them to take over if a dangerous situation develops, which is a key safety feature for new drivers. The instructor will also provide feedback during the lesson and may assign practice tasks between sessions.
Many students book lessons in clusters — for example, five or ten sessions over a few weeks — to build skills progressively. Others take a few lessons before their DMV test to practice the specific maneuvers the test requires.
What Colorado's driving test actually requires
The Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles administers the driving test, not Mile High Driver Training. The test includes a written portion (knowledge test) and a behind-the-wheel portion (driving test). You must pass both to get your license.
The driving test itself lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe decision-making. The examiner will ask you to perform specific maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, and lane changes. Mile High instructors can teach you how to perform these maneuvers and what the examiner will be looking for, but the actual test happens at a DMV office with a state examiner.
You can take the driving test without ever having a professional lesson — many people do. Professional instruction straightforward increases the likelihood you will pass on your first or second attempt, rather than taking multiple tries.
How to contact Mile High Driver Training and what to expect
To learn about current pricing, availability, and how to book a lesson, you will need to contact the school directly. They typically have a phone number and may have an online booking system or email contact. A quick search for "Mile High Driver Training Denver" will bring up their current contact information and website.
When you call or visit their site, be ready to tell them your experience level (new driver, returning driver, preparing for test, etc.) and what days and times work for your schedule. They will let you know what lesson packages they offer and what the cost is. Some schools offer a discount for booking multiple lessons upfront.
You should also ask whether you can use your own vehicle or whether you need to use one of theirs. Some instructors prefer their own cars because they know the dual-control system and the vehicle's handling, while others are comfortable teaching in a student's car.
Differences between professional instruction and self-teaching
Learning to drive from a friend or family member is free and legal, but it has real drawbacks. A professional instructor has no emotional stake in your driving and can give you honest, direct feedback without the tension that sometimes comes with learning from someone you know. They also know exactly what the DMV test requires and can focus your practice on those specific skills.
Professional instruction also tends to be more efficient. A few focused lessons with an instructor often teach more than weeks of casual practice with a friend. If you are nervous about driving, an instructor trained to work with anxious drivers can help you build confidence in a structured way.
That said, professional instruction is not free, and it is not required. Many people pass the driving test without it. The choice depends on your budget, how much practice you think you need, and whether you have someone you trust to teach you.
What to bring and prepare before your first lesson
Before your first lesson, you will need a valid learner's permit (in Colorado, a permit is required before you can take the driving test). You should also bring your Social Security number or ID and any documents the school asks for when you book.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that allow you to work the pedals easily. Avoid flip-flops or very loose clothing. If you are using your own vehicle, make sure it is in safe working order — the instructor will not teach in a car with mechanical problems.
It is also helpful to think about what you want to work on before the lesson starts. Are you nervous about highway driving? Do you struggle with parallel parking? Do you need help with the specific test route? Telling the instructor your goals at the start of the lesson helps them use the time effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need professional driving lessons to get my Colorado license?
No. You can take the driving test without professional instruction. However, lessons can increase your chances of passing on the first attempt and help you build skills faster than practicing on your own.
Can Mile High Driver Training help me prepare for the specific DMV test route?
Yes. Many driving schools, including Mile High, can practice the routes used at your local DMV office. Contact them to ask whether they offer this service and whether there is an additional cost.
What if I fail the driving test after taking lessons?
You can retake the test at the DMV. Many students book additional lessons between attempts to work on the specific skills the examiner noted as problems. Mile High can help you identify what went wrong and practice those areas.
How much does Mile High Driver Training cost?
Pricing varies by lesson length and package. You will need to contact the school directly for current rates. Many schools offer discounts for multi-lesson packages booked upfront.
Can I use my own car for lessons, or do I have to use theirs?
This varies by instructor and school. When you book, ask whether you can bring your own vehicle or whether you need to use one of their dual-control cars. Some instructors prefer their own vehicles for safety and consistency.