GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) — A new Colorado law taking effect April 1 will require young drivers to complete more classroom hours before getting behind the wheel.
Under House Bill 24-1021, drivers under 18 will have to take a 30-hour driver’s education course before they can get a permit. New drivers 18 and older will have a choice: either the full 30-hour course or a shorter four-hour pre-qualification program. These courses may be in person or online, but all must be approved by the Department of Revenue.
Colorado State Patrol (CSP) reports that for drivers ages 16 to 21, speeding, careless driving, not wearing a seat belt and not carrying proof of insurance were the most common infractions in 2025. Nearly 10,000 citations were issued.
Trooper Gabriel Moltrer with the CSP said distractions are a leading cause of crashes among young drivers.
“Just having those distractions in the vehicle, whether it be cell phones, GPS, the music you’re trying to play, or even other passengers in the vehicle,” Moltrer said.
CSP investigated more than 720 crashes caused by drivers aged 16 to 21 in 2025, according to Moltrer.
“We want to ensure that these young drivers are being properly prepared once they have their permit, once they have their driver’s license, to be able to responsibly drive on the roadways, follow the laws, and ensure that they are safe,” Moltrer said.
The law will also require a minor under 21 to complete an instruction program for motorcycle safety before they get their motorcycle permit. This course will need to be approved by the Colorado State Patrol.
“Driving is learned, it is complicated, and it does take a lot of focus to ensure that you are driving properly,” Moltrer said.
The law will apply to all permit and license applications received on or after Jan. 1, 2027.
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