November 2009

If I run a red light while I have my Colorado learner permit, will it be taken away or will I just get a ticket?

Ross from Alexander Dawson High School in Colorado asks: Hi I'm fifteen and I'm from Colorado. If I run a read light while I have my permit will it be taken away or will I just get a ticket?

Hi Ross - did you know that every time someone runs a red light, my fragile little driving heart dies just a little bit more? SO PLEASE STOP KILLING ME SLOWLY! Now that I got that out of my system, on to your question:

From what I understand about Colorado driving law, you will not lose your driving privilege if the only violation you have on your record is running a red light because:

- "Failure to observe traffic signal" is a 4 point violation
- If you are a minor, you need 6 points on your driving record to cause suspension.

So basically running a red light should put 4-points on your driving record, but that's not enough points to have your license taken away.

I couldn't find anywhere that specifically addressed getting ticketed while driving with a permit, so I would assume that you will be treated with the same rules as a minor.

As always, if you want the definitive answer to your driving question, you should contact your local Colorado DMV. Hope that helps!

Until next time Colorado Ross, please find the brake pedal next time you see a light that is colored any shade of red!

Jonny Driving School
DrivingSchoolProgram.com

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