How to Schedule Your Colorado Driving Test: DMV vs. Third-Party Schools

You've passed the written exam, you've diligently filled out your 50-hour driving log, and you've held your permit for at least a year. The final step to earning your Colorado driver's license is passing the behind-the-wheel driving test. But before you can demonstrate your skills, you need to book an appointment.

In Colorado, you have two primary options for taking your road test: a state-run DMV office or a state-approved third-party driving school. This guide will break down how to schedule with each, and the pros and cons, so you can choose the best path for you.

Before You Book: Confirm Your Eligibility

Don't jump the gun on scheduling. Make sure you meet all the state's requirements first. For most teen drivers, this means you must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Have held your instruction permit for at least 12 consecutive months. [2, 3, 5]
• Have completed your 50-hour driving log, including 10 hours of nighttime driving. [2, 5]

Option 1: Scheduling a Test with the Colorado DMV

This is the traditional route for taking your driving test. Appointments are mandatory and are all handled through the DMV's online portal.

How to Schedule Online with the DMV:

1. Navigate to the myDMV Portal: Go to the official Colorado DMV website at myDMV.Colorado.gov.
2. Select "Schedule an Appointment": Find the appointment scheduler on the website's main page.
3. Choose Your Service: You will need to select "Driver License/ID/Permit" and then specify that you are scheduling a "Drive Test."
4. Enter Your Information: You will likely need to enter your pre-registration code from your permit application, as well as your name and date of birth to locate your record.
5. Select a Location: The system will show you a list of DMV offices that offer driving tests. Choose the one most convenient for you.
6. Find a Date and Time: The portal will display a calendar with available appointment slots.

Pros and Cons of Using the DMV:

• Pro: Cost-Effective. There is generally no additional fee for the test itself when taken at the DMV, beyond your standard licensing fees.
• Con: Long Wait Times. This is the biggest drawback. DMV appointments, especially in metro areas, are often booked up for weeks or even months in advance. You need to plan far ahead.
• Con: Limited Flexibility. DMV offices operate on standard business hours, offering no weekend or evening appointments.
• Con: You Must Provide Your Own Vehicle. You must bring a safe, registered, and insured vehicle for the test.

Option 2: Scheduling with a Third-Party Driving School

Colorado authorizes many private driving schools to administer the official state driving test. This has become an increasingly popular and convenient option.

How to Schedule with a Third-Party School:

1. Find an Approved School: The Colorado DMV website maintains a list of all approved third-party "Drive Test" providers. You can search for one in your area.
2. Contact the School Directly: Unlike the DMV's central portal, you will contact the driving school directly to schedule your appointment. Most have online booking systems on their own websites or allow you to book over the phone.
3. Inquire About Fees and Services: Ask about their specific fee for administering the test and what it includes.

Pros and Cons of Using a Third-Party School:

• Pro: Excellent Availability. This is the number one reason people choose this option. Third-party schools often have appointments available within days, not months.
• Pro: Flexible Scheduling. Many offer appointments on weekends and in the evenings to accommodate school and work schedules.
• Pro: Use Their Vehicle. Most schools allow you to use one of their driver training vehicles for the test (usually for an additional fee). This can reduce stress, as their cars are guaranteed to meet all safety requirements and are familiar to students who took lessons there.
• Pro: Potentially Less Stressful Environment. The atmosphere at a smaller driving school can feel less intimidating than a crowded DMV office.
• Con: Additional Cost. This is the main trade-off. You will pay the driving school a separate fee for the convenience of their service, in addition to the licensing fees you'll pay at the DMV.

Which Option is Right for You?

• If cost is your primary concern and you can plan several months in advance, scheduling with the DMV is a good choice.
• If speed, convenience, and flexibility are your priorities, and you're willing to pay an extra fee, a third-party driving school is likely your best bet.

Regardless of which path you choose, securing your appointment is the final gate to pass through on your way to earning your Colorado driver's license.