State Laws

Your teen will soon be a new driver. You’ve been there every step of the way so far, and your state and local governments have, too.

Licensing Authority

The Colorado Department of Revenue, through its Division of Motor Vehicles, is in charge of licensing for all drivers in the state.

Conducts the written exam for your instruction permit and the drive test for your minor’s driver license. Drive tests at driver's license offices are by appointment only. Drive tests can also be completed with a third-part tester.
Provides study materials to help you get ready for the exams.
Keeps track of your license status and can suspend your license if you get too many tickets, don’t keep insurance on your car or commit other violations.

Policing

State and local police enforce traffic laws and investigate crashes. Remind your teen that police can and will enforce all requirements on safety belt use, drinking and driving and other laws. Breaking the law can lead to fines, license suspension and other penalties. Talk to your teen about these and other consequences, and explain what to do if stopped by police.

If stopped by the police, teens should expect to present a valid license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance.
If stopped as a driver or passenger, teens should always cooperate and be respectful with law enforcement.
If in any kind of situation involving law enforcement, teens should talk to their parents about it, because this can create a learning experience.

Courts

If your teen gets a ticket or is involved in a crash, it could lead to a court appearance. Judges deal seriously and directly with teen traffic violations. They can assess fines and suspend driving privileges for traffic offenses—even for a first offense.