Colorado Driver Handbook Study Notes

Colorado Driver Handbook Overview

  • This handbook provides essential information that every motorist in Colorado needs to know about driving in the state.

Online DMV Services

  • Options available through online services:

    • Request Driver Record

    • Pay Traffic Citations

    • View/Submit Medical Certificates (Department of Transportation)

    • Apply for a New Driver License or ID

    • Renew Driver License or ID (if eligible)

    • Pay Reinstatement Fees and Upload Reinstatement Documents

    • Schedule Appointments

    • Manage International Registration Plans

    • Change Driver License or ID Address

    • Add/Change Renewal Reminders

    • Update Emergency Contacts

    • Check Eligibility to Renew by Mail

    • Upgrade Permit to a Driver License

    • Extend Expiration Dates (if eligible)

    • Submit a Subpoena

    • Reschedule Hearings

    • Visit myDMV.Colorado.gov for services.

Table of Contents

  1. Getting a Driver License

  2. Minor Drivers

  3. How You Can Lose Your License

  4. Seat Belt Laws

  5. Driving Under the Influence

  6. Before You Drive

  7. Basic Driving

  8. Traffic Controls

  9. Traffic Signals

  10. Traffic Signs

  11. Pavement Markings

  12. Lane Controls

  13. Right-of-Way

  14. Speed

  15. Turning

  16. Parking

  17. Freeway Driving

  18. Changing Lanes

  19. Passing

  20. Hills and Curves

  21. Night Driving

  22. Weather

  23. Seasonal Driving

  24. Mountain Driving

  25. Rural Driving

  26. Construction Zones

  27. Safe Driving Tips

  28. Sharing the Road

  29. Railroad Crossing

  30. Light Rail

  31. Bicyclists

  32. Motorcycles

  33. Pedestrians

  34. Careless/Reckless Driving

  35. Tips to Avoid Becoming an Aggressive Driver

  36. Emergencies

  37. Vehicle Emergencies

  38. Crash Tips

  39. Organ and Tissue Donation Information

  40. Featured Online Services

Getting a Driver License

  • Age Requirement:

    • Minimum age to operate a motor vehicle: 16 years old.

    • Obtain a Colorado driver license within 30 days of becoming a resident, unless exempted due to military service or educational purposes.

  • Address/Name Changes:

    • Notify DMV within 30 days of any changes.

  • Types of Tests:

    • Driving Knowledge Test:

    • Covers driving knowledge and safety, including topics in the handbook (e.g., road signs, rules).

    • Practice quizzes available online.

    • Driving Skills Test:

    • Measures practical driving ability.

    • Must have qualified supervision when holding an instruction permit.

    • Areas for testing may vary; check local county websites for details.

Minor Drivers

  • Instruction Permit Requirements:

    • Must hold an instruction permit for at least 12 months and log 50 hours of driving experience (10 hours at night).

  • Affidavit of Liability and Guardianship:

    • Required for minors under 18. Must be signed by a responsible adult acknowledging liability for the minor's driving actions.

  • Passenger and Curfew Restrictions:

    • Restrictions on passenger numbers and driving times apply for new drivers under 18.

How You Can Lose Your License

  • License can be suspended, revoked, or canceled by:

    • Minimum point accumulation.

    • Conviction of DUI or DWAI.

    • Failing to provide valid proof of insurance.

    • False information on applications.

Seat Belt Laws

  • Colorado law mandates the use of seatbelts:

    • Applies to drivers, front-seat passengers, and children under 16.

  • Child Restraints:

    • Specific requirements based on age and weight for using child seating systems.

Driving Under the Influence

  • Alcohol and drug impairment laws:

    • Legal BAC limits: 0.08% for drivers 21 and older; lower limits for minors and commercial drivers.

    • Refusal to take a toxicology test can result in license revocation.

    • Education on the effects of drugs and alcohol on driving safety is emphasized.

Before You Drive

  • Key preparations include checking:

    • Vision and hearing.

    • Health and emotions.

    • Vehicle safety (e.g., brakes, lights, tires).

  • Always adjust seat and mirrors and minimize distractions before driving.

Basic Driving Practices

  • Starting the Vehicle:

    • Foot on brake to start.

  • Steering Techniques:

    • Recommended hand positions include 9-3 o’clock or 8-4 o’clock.

  • Backing Up:

    • Check all mirrors and blind spots, signal intention.

Traffic Controls

  • Always obey traffic signals, signs, and law enforcement.

    • Examples of signals include red (stop) and green (go).

  • Road signs are categorized into regulatory, warning, and guide signs.

Speed and Safe Driving Practices

  • Speed Limits:

    • Varies based on conditions; enforcement of maximum/minimum speeds.

  • Following Distance:

    • Maintain a safe distance (three-second rule) to avoid collisions.

Model Scenarios for Safe Driving

  • Examples of safe practices include:

    • Proper lane changes, complying with right-of-way rules, and managing distractions effectively while driving.

Emergency Procedures and Vehicle Incidents

  • In Emergencies:

    • Know what to do when brakes fail, or if a collision might occur.

  • Provide proof of insurance after a crash and follow proper reporting procedures.

Additional Information on Organ Donation

  • Available when applying or renewing a driver's license in Colorado, emphasizing the importance of organ donation awareness.