This page presents the source material collected so far. Some requirements may still need direct confirmation.
COColorado CDL permit test guide
The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.
- Licensing agency
- Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles
- Official CDL page
- dmv.colorado.gov ↗
- Official CDL manual
- dmv.colorado.gov ↗
- Testing, fees and appointments
- dmv.colorado.gov ↗
- Knowledge-test language
- English and other languages
Offered in: English, Spanish. Rules are changing in 2026; confirm before you book.
Hazmat knowledge test in English only.
- Source collection date
Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)
- Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
- Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
- Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
- Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
- Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
- Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
- Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.
What is different in this state
- Age
You must be at least 18 to apply; drivers aged 18 through 20 get the K restriction and may drive commercially only within Colorado.
- Test languages
The Colorado manual states that all CDL skills tests are taken in English only.
- Also important
You need a regular Colorado license before getting a CDL instruction permit, and people with an out-of-state CLP must have received their training in Colorado. Colorado uses approved third-party CDL testers, and the Vets-2-Trucks program can waive the driving skills test for eligible military drivers.
State-only topics in the manual
- Colorado Section 1 additions: age and K restriction, permit rules, Colorado State Patrol contacts for snow rules and medical waivers.
Source collection date:
The three permit tests
General Knowledge
Required for every CDL class.
Mock examAir Brakes
Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.
Mock examCombination Vehicles
Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).
Mock exam7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.