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Third-party drive tests with state-certified examiners.

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Class, permit test, and 6 hours of lessons.

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Course online, testing and lessons in person.

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Behind-the-wheel lessons with patient and certified instructors.

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Rural Colorado - Driver's License Testing

Now offering official third-party driving tests in Cañon City, and Trinidad

The Colorado DMV no longer offers driver’s license testing. That’s where we come in. American Driving Academy is a state-approved third-party tester, helping rural drivers take their driver’s license exam locally, without traveling to major cities.

Canon City, Colorado - $95.00

Trinidad, Colorado - $100.00

Please note: We do not have a physical location at any of these addresses. All drive tests start and end in the parking lot.

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American driving academy | rural driver's license testing colorado’s most-trusted driving school that has served the front

Why This Matters in Rural Colorado

Because DMVs no longer provide the drivers license test, you are probably wondering where to take a driving test. Rural drivers face long travel and wait times just to take their test. Our locations eliminate that burden:

American driving academy | rural driver's license testing colorado’s most-trusted driving school that has served the front

Cañon City

(We test twice a month here)
Serving Fremont County, Florence, Penrose, Salida

American driving academy | rural driver's license testing colorado’s most-trusted driving school that has served the front

Trinidad

(We test once a month here)
Ideal for southern Colorado, including the Raton Pass region

Why Choose Us?

 Once you pass your drive test with us, you may not even need to visit the DMV. We can help you get your license added to your phone the same day, and the DMV will mail your physical copy directly to you.

 Book online anytime or call us at 719-442-0400 to schedule over the phone.

 Our staff is patient, professional, and familiar with rural driving conditions and expectations.

With over 25 years serving both metro and rural areas, we’re Colorado’s most trusted name in driver testing and education.

Regardless of your behind-the-wheel test result, you’ll receive practical advice to help you continue improving your driving skills.

What Kind of Vehicle Will I Use?

Unless you have an interlock restriction, your test will be conducted in one of our easy-to-drive, compact vehicles. 

All testing vehicles are:

  • Equipped with dual brakes
  • Insured and registered
  • Maintained for optimal safety and performance

Nervous? Don’t be—our instructors will explain everything before the test begins.

American driving academy | rural driver's license testing colorado’s most-trusted driving school that has served the front

Route Familiarization Tips

Want to feel more confident? While we don’t share the full drive route, here’s what we recommend:

  • Drive in the area near your test location before your appointment.
  • Practice residential streets, stop signs, lane changes, and three-point turns.
  • Review local speed limits and school zones.
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CALL US (719) 442-0400
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Trustpilot

4.8 Star Rating
11,000+ Reviews

American Driving Academy was awesome! I scheduled my driving test at 9 p.m. Saturday, and the next day, Sunday, they had me in and done. They were very fast, efficient, and accommodating. Thank you."
Paul L.
"I had Cindy as my instructor for my driver's test. She was so sweet and patient. She gave me clear instructions, and I never felt that she was putting me in an uncomfortable position. She explained what the test would look like before it started and helped explain to me what the process of upgrading my permit to license was after the test. Lovely experience!"
Kimberly L.
"Today, I completed a driving test with the exceptional instructor, Tracy. He is a very supportive, composed, and professional individual. Initially, I felt quite anxious; however, his soothing voice and encouraging demeanor significantly alleviated my nerves. I highly recommend him to anyone preparing for their driving test. Thank you immensely, Tracy!"
Maureen A.
"Una excelente instructora María muy clara al hablar y entendible en cada una de las direcciones dadas durante la prueba, un acompañamiento tranquilo. Muchas gracias excelente academia."
Reinaldo Rueda G.
"Candace gave my very nervous niece her test, and she was wonderful. It was easy to schedule the test and get her license. As I watched the other staff, I noticed they all seemed very upbeat and patient. I highly recommend them."
Barbara W.
"Gracias al instructor Andy por acompañar mi proceso, de verdad lo recomiendo … desde su presentación y recibimiento muy cordial, amable y educado, me sentí súper tranquilo y cómodo con sus instrucciones. Creo que fue fundamental para de dejar a un lado los nervios o las dudas y poder aprobar exitosamente mi prueba práctica de manejo … saludos !!!"
Leo C.
"My test instructor was Michelle. It was great. Everyone was so nice. I passed my test, so I probably won’t be coming back, but I will if I do!"
Daniel C.
"Chelsea did a great job with my test. I passed but she gave me some feedback on areas to improve. It was easy to schedule a test when I needed one on short notice."
Ken B.
"Great experience. I showed up early, and they were able to start my test early. Keith was professional, nice, and fun to talk to. It felt like a ride through the neighborhood rather than a pressure-packed test. Also, good follow-up info afterward."
Andrew K.
"Very friendly and professional. Faris made me feel very comfortable and relaxed, which is what you want when you're conducting a test. I highly recommend this location to anyone looking to schedule their road test. 5 STARS"
JR
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Important Information for Your Colorado Driving Test

Permit Requirements:

  • To take the Colorado driver’s license driving test, you must have a valid Colorado permit, no matter your age.
  • If you’re under 18, you can test once on a valid out-of-state permit with a pre-registration code.
  • If you’re under 18, you must have held your permit for at least one year before testing.
  • Don’t forget your glasses or contacts if your permit has a corrective lens restriction!

Vehicles with Interlock Restrictions:

If your permit has an interlock restriction, you’ll need to provide your own vehicle that meets the following requirements:

  • Interlock device installed.
  • Front and back license plates attached.
  • Current insurance and registration.
  • No windshield cracks.
  • Doors must open and close from the inside.
  • All lights must be fully functional.

Test Day Tips:

  • Be sure to arrive on time and prepared for your Colorado driving test. If you need to review our refund policy, you can find it here.
  • All tests are conducted in our vehicles, except for those with interlock restrictions.
  • The driver’s license test takes about 15-20 minutes, and an additional 15 minutes for paperwork.
  • You’ll be tested on a state-approved route — no parallel parking or freeway driving required!

After Your Test:

After your test, we’ll upload your results to the DMV’s system. Here’s what happens next:

  • You may be able to get your driver’s license through the MyColorado App.
  • The state will also send a physical copy of your license by mail.
  • If you can’t access it through the app, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at the DMV.

Safe Driving Reminders for Your Test:

  1. Always come to a complete stop — double-check that the ground outside your window has stopped moving.
  2. Stick to the speed limit, especially in residential areas.
  3. Keep both hands on the wheel at the 9 and 3 or 10 and 2 positions. Use push-pull or hand-over-hand techniques when turning.
  4. Stay aware of what’s happening behind you — check your mirrors after every intersection.

Start Driving For Teens

Step 1: Pass 30-Hour Class

If under the age of 16, you need to first complete a driver's ed course. In-person and online options are available.

Take Course In Person
Take Course Online

Step 2: Pass Permit Test

This 25 multiple-choice test is offered at many of our locations.

Get Started

Step 3: Go to the DMV

After passing the course and the permit test, you will need to go to the DMV to get your driving permit. To make a DMV appointment…

Make Appointment

Step 4: Take Driving Lessons

If you are under 16.5 years of age, you are required to take six hours of driving lessons before getting your driver's license. Learn to drive with our state-certified, friendly, and patient instructors.

Get Started

Step 5: Pass Your Driving Test

After holding your permit for one full year, it is time to take your driver's license test.

Get Started

Start Driving For Adults

Step 1: Pass Written Test

You need to pass this test to get your permit. It is 25 multiple choice questions. We offer this test at many of our locations.

Get Started

Step 2: Go to the DMV

After passing the permit test, you will need to go to the DMV to get your driving permit. To make a DMV appointment…

Make Appointment

Step 3: Take Driving Lessons (If Needed)

If you are new to Colorado or you don’t have driving experience, we offer driving lessons 7 days a week. These are 2-hour lessons with state-certified, patient, and friendly instructors.

Get Started

Step 4: Pass Your Driving Test

You are required to pass the driver's license test in order to get your driver's license. After passing, you may be eligible to get your license that same day without even having to visit the DMV.

Get Started