Teen Driving Restrictions

Rules of the Road

The rules of the road apply to drivers of all ages, but there are certain additional restrictions that all teen drivers need to know.

Passenger restrictions

Teens with a permit:

  • Teens with a permit must be accompanied by a driving instructor, parent, legal guardian or a licensed adult 21 years of age or older (authorized by parent/guardian) in the front seat, buckled up. 

Teens with a license:

  • For the first six months, no passengers under 21, unless a parent or other licensed adult driver over 21 is in the vehicle.
  • For the next six months, one passenger under age 21.
  • Medical emergencies are exceptions.
  • At any time, no more than one passenger is allowed in the front seat.

Mandatory seat belts

By law, ALL teen drivers and passengers must wear seat belts (no sharing!).

Cell phones and texting banned

Teens under age 18 are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving.  Teens can be fined and may risk losing their license.  Exceptions include emergency calls to the police or fire department.

Curfew

For the first year as a licensed driver, your teen must abide by a curfew—no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by an instructor, parent or legal guardian. Exceptions include: driving to/from school/work (signed statement from school/work required), medical emergencies and emancipated minors.

Curfew laws may vary by city or county.  To properly follow the curfew in your area, please confirm restrictions with your local government.

Zero Tolerance for Drunk Driving

Eight young people die every day in the U.S. in alcohol-related crashes.  Talk with your teen about the dangers of driving drunk or riding with someone who has used alcohol or drugs. Driving under the influence of alcohol—even a trace of alcohol on minor drivers—is punishable by law.

For a refresher on all traffic laws, review the Colorado Department of Revenue's Drivers Handbook.