Colorado's Adult Learner's Permit Test Has No Separate Fee

Colorado does not charge a separate fee for the written knowledge test itself. The test is included in the cost of your learner's permit, which is $20.00. You pay once, take the test, and if you pass, your permit is issued on the same day.

This is different from some states that charge separately for the test and then again for the permit document. In Colorado, the $20 covers both the knowledge test and the permit card you receive if you pass. You do not pay extra to retake the test if you fail on your first attempt — you pay the $20 fee again only if you let your permit expire and need to renew it later.

Key Takeaways

  • Colorado charges $20.00 for an adult learner's permit, which includes the written knowledge test at no additional cost.
  • You take the test at a Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles office, and payment is made when you explore in person.
  • If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or return another day without paying the $20 fee again.
  • The $20 fee covers the permit itself; you will pay a separate fee later when you take the driving skills test for your license.

Where to Pay and What to Bring

You pay the $20 fee at a Colorado DMV office when you submit your process for the learner's permit. Bring a valid form of identification (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Payment methods vary by location, so call ahead to confirm whether the office accepts cash, card, or both.

You cannot pay online or by mail to take the test. You must appear in person at a DMV office to pay, complete the written process, and take the knowledge test on the same visit. Some offices are busier than others, so arriving early in the day or on a weekday may mean shorter wait times.

What Happens If You Fail the Test

If you do not pass the knowledge test on your first try, you can retake it without paying the $20 fee again. You may retake the test the same day if the office has time, or you can schedule another appointment for a later date. Colorado allows you multiple attempts to pass, though you should review the study materials between tries.

Each time you retake the test, you are not charged again. The $20 is a one-time fee for that permit process cycle. However, if you wait more than a certain period and your process expires, you would need to start over and pay the $20 fee again.

The Driving Skills Test Costs Separately

Once you pass the knowledge test and hold your learner's permit, you will eventually take a driving skills test (also called the road test) to earn your full license. That test has its own fee, which is separate from the $20 learner's permit cost. As of the most recent information, the driving skills test fee is $30.00, but you should confirm the current amount with your local DMV office since fees can change.

You must hold your learner's permit for a minimum period and meet other requirements before you are allowed to schedule the driving skills test. The knowledge test fee and the driving skills test fee are distinct charges, so budget for both if you are planning to complete the full licensing process.

Payment Methods and Office Locations

Colorado DMV offices accept payment in person, but the specific methods (cash, debit card, credit card, check) depend on which office you visit. Some offices may have different payment options than others. Before you go, contact the DMV office nearest you to confirm what forms of payment they accept and their current hours.

You can find a list of Colorado DMV office locations and phone numbers on the Colorado Department of Revenue website. Calling ahead also lets you ask about wait times and whether you need to schedule an appointment, as some offices operate by appointment only while others accept walk-ins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay the $20 fee online before I go to the DMV?

No. Colorado requires you to pay in person at a DMV office when you explore for your learner's permit. You cannot prepay online or by mail. You must appear at the office with your identification and other required documents to pay and take the test.

Do I have to pay $20 every time I retake the test?

No. You pay $20 once for your learner's permit process. If you fail the knowledge test and retake it, there is no additional charge. You only pay $20 again if your permit expires and you explore for a new one.

What if I pass the knowledge test but do not want the permit yet?

Once you pass the test and pay the $20, your learner's permit is issued. You cannot pay for the test without receiving the permit. If you are not ready to drive, you can straightforward not use the permit and let it expire naturally.

Is the $20 fee the same at every Colorado DMV office?

Yes. The learner's permit fee is set by the state and is $20.00 at all Colorado DMV offices. However, some offices may have different payment methods or hours, so it is worth calling ahead to confirm details specific to your location.