Colorado Shut Down Fake Driving School: 460 Licenses at Risk

The Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles has taken decisive action against a driving school accused of orchestrating a widespread fraud scheme. Academy School of Driving in Colorado Springs had its testing certificate immediately suspended after investigators uncovered what authorities describe as a "systemic" operation that turned driver licensing into a pay-to-pass system.

According to the DMV, the fraudulent activities have been ongoing since at least March 2025. The most serious allegations include outside "coordinators" allegedly sitting in testing rooms and physically filling in answers for applicants during written exams. Additionally, mandatory 15-minute behind-the-wheel tests were reportedly being cut down to as little as two to four minutes, with employees entering fabricated route and timing data into the state system.

The investigation revealed that Academy School of Driving charged applicants between $550 and $600 for guaranteed passing results. Investigators further allege that coordinators manipulated the DMV appointment system by using fake placeholder names to reserve scarce testing slots, then resold those appointments to customers. This practice reportedly left honest applicants waiting while others allegedly bought their way to the front of the line.

"The Colorado DMV is committed to protecting public safety and the integrity of our driver licensing system," said DMV Senior Director Electra Bustle. "This action was taken to stop these bad actors from continuing to manipulate this critical road safety program. We will continue to work closely with our partners in law enforcement to hold accountable those who attempt to subvert the process and put Coloradans at risk."

The DMV estimates that 460 individuals who obtained licenses through the school may have their driving privileges revoked. Many of these drivers may need to surrender their licenses and retake both the written and road tests at another certified school. The investigation remains active, with the possibility of additional actions including disciplinary measures against specific employees and potential criminal charges.

For now, Academy School of Driving has been ordered to cease all testing operations immediately. The DMV emphasizes that this action underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity of Colorado's driver licensing system and ensuring public safety on the state's roads.