Indiana Permit and Driver's License FAQ

  • Applying for Your IN License
  • Preparing for the IN Permit Test
  • Taking the IN Permit Test
  • Preparing for the IN Driving Test
  • Taking the IN Driving Test
  • Renewing Your IN License
Close all

Applying for Your IN License: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the age requirements for getting started?

Indiana offers a Graduated Driver’s License Program to first-time teen drivers. The stages and age requirements for each stage are as follows:

  • Learner’s Permit with enrollment in driver’s ed – 15 years old
  • Learner’s Permit without enrollment in driver’s ed – 16 years old
  • Probationary driver’s license with completion of driver’s ed – 16 years old and 90 days
  • Probationary driver’s license without completion of driver’s ed – 16 years old and 270 days
  • Full unrestricted driver’s license – 18 years old

What documents am I required to bring with me when applying for a license in Indiana?

Be prepared to provide all of the following:

  • Proof of Identity (examples: birth certificate, passport)
  • Social Security Number (examples: Social Security card, W-2 form)
  • Proof of Citizenship or lawful presence (examples: birth certificate, passport)
  • Proof of residency (examples: bank statement, utility bill)

Check out a complete list of acceptable documents.

Where do I file my IN driver’s license application?

At the local office of the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

How can I contact my local office?

Call (888) 692-6841 or visit https://www.in.gov/bmv/2337.htm.

Do I have to take a Driver’s Ed Course?

No, driver’s ed is not required; however, if you do take it you can receive both your permit and your probationary driver’s license earlier than if you don’t take it.

What if I am new to Indiana?

Those moving to Indiana with an out-of-state Learner’s Permit must obtain and hold an Indiana permit for 90 days before they can apply for their driver’s license.

Close all

Preparing for the IN Permit Test: Frequently Asked Questions

What subjects are commonly covered on the written test?

The Indiana written test includes questions on traffic laws, road signs and other state rules of the road. Here are two examples of content from the Indiana Driver’s Manual that could easily appear on the test:

  • When changing lanes to prepare for a turn, your signal distance must be at least 300 feet before the turn if operating a vehicle in a speed zone of at least 50 miles per hour.
  • When not driving on an interstate or state highway, the maximum speed limit for a school bus is 40 miles per hour unless the posted speed limit is lower.

How is the test formatted?

The Indiana test is given in multiple choice format.

Are there a lot of “trick” questions on the written test?

If you don’t study your state driver’s manual thoroughly you may think every question is a trick question! But no, there are no questions purposely designed to trick you. Study the driver’s manual and take practice tests online to prepare for the test. Take a practice test now.

How many questions are on the test and how many do I need to answer correctly to pass?

There are 34 questions on road rules and 16 questions on road signs. You need to answer at least 28 road rule questions correctly and at least 14 road sign questions correctly in order to pass.

What are the best ways to prepare for the written test?

You should study the Indiana Driver’s Manual very carefully, paying particular attention to statistics and numbers. You should also take practice tests online that are formatted like the real test to prepare for the exam and better assess your current knowledge and what areas you need to study more. Take a practice test now.

Where can I get a free Indiana Driver’s Manual to study?

You can download free manual on this website.

How can I improve my odds for passing the first time I take the test?

While studying the Indiana Driver’s Manual also take practice tests to get a better idea of what you know and what you need to study. When it comes down to it, there is no better way to improve your odds for passing than to study hard. To see what you currently know about Indiana driving rules, take a practice test.

What should I do the night before the test?

You’ll want to review your driver’s manual and take a practice test or two to build your confidence but maybe even more important than those things is to get a good night’s rest. Don’t stay out late, turn in early and ensure you wake the next day rested and ready to pass your test.

Close all

Taking the IN Permit Test: Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make an appointment to take the written test?

If your local BMV office takes appointments, it is recommended that you take advantage of this and schedule one. It could save you time and frustration.

Where do I take the written test?

Your local BMV office will administer the test.

What do I need to bring when I sit for the written test?

  • Proof of Identity (examples: birth certificate, passport)
  • Social Security Number (examples: Social Security card, W-2 form)
  • Proof of Citizenship or lawful presence (examples: birth certificate, passport)
  • Proof of residency (examples: bank statement, utility bill)

Check out a complete list of acceptable documents to submit as proof.

You will also need to submit your Certificate of Driver Education (CDE) form, if you’re enrolled in Driver’s Ed. In addition, a parent or guardian will need to sign your application.

Who should accompany me to the written test?

You should be accompanied by a parent or guardian, who will need to sign your application.

Do I need to pay a fee to take the written test?

Yes, you will need to pay a $9 Learner’s Permit fee.

What should I expect when I sit for the written test?

The test will consist of two sections – one section containing 34 road rule questions and one section containing 16 road sign questions. You will need to answer at least 28 road rule questions correctly and at least 14 road sign questions correctly to pass. That means you need to get a total of 42 out of the 50 total questions right to pass. You cannot use the driver’s manual or any notes to take the test. There is no time limit. Here is a practice test formatted like the real thing.

What happens after I pass the written test?

You will receive your Learner’s Permit and can begin your behind-the-wheel driving practice. You need to log 50 total hours of practice driving, with 10 of those hours coming at night.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake as soon as the next business day if you like.

How many times can I retake the test?

If you fail three times you will have to wait 60 days and then begin the whole process over again.

Close all

Preparing for the IN Driving Test: Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve passed the written permit test, what are the next steps?

With your newly issued Learner’s Permit, you are now ready to begin driving – with a licensed supervisor that is.

If you are enrolled in driver’s ed, you can only drive with a licensed driver age 25 or older, a licensed spouse 21 or older or a certified driving instructor in the front passenger seat.

If you are not in driver’s ed and are between 16 and 18 years old, you can drive while accompanied by a certified driving instructor, a licensed driver 25 years old or older or a licensed spouse age 21 or over.

How long after getting my Learner’s Permit can I apply for a license?

You can apply for a probationary license when:

  • You have held your Learner’s Permit for at least 90 days
  • You have completed 50 hours of driving practice, with 10 of those hours coming at night
  • You have reached one of the following age milestones – if you have taken driver’s ed, 16 years and 90 days; if you have not taken driver’s ed, 16 years and 270 days

Can I drive anywhere in Indiana with my Learner’s Permit?

Yes, as long as you are accompanied by licensed driving supervisor.

Should I practice driving solely during the day?

No, you must also complete at least 10 hours of driving at night.

Does anyone have to be in the car with me when I’m driving with my Learner’s Permit?

Yes, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 25 or older, a licensed spouse 21 or older or a certified driving instructor in the front passenger seat.

What should I do if I have a lost Indiana Learner’s Permit?

In the event that your Indiana Learner’s Permit is lost, you can replace it at the local BMV office. You will need to produce identification like you did when you applied for the permit.

How can I be sure I’m prepared to ace the driving test?

Log the 50 hours of required driving practice and be sure to take your practice time seriously. This means focusing on the Indiana rules of the road and applying them to your driving. You should also listen closely to your driving supervisor and be sure to take heed of their tips and critiques.

Are there particular driving maneuvers I should practice?

The driver’s test will normally include parking, three-point turns, braking, accelerating, driving in traffic, changing lanes, using your mirrors and driving defensively so be sure to practice all of these maneuvers so that you excel at them.

How can I simulate the driving test?

Practice maneuvers commonly tested for on the exam like turns, stops, parking, changing lanes, driving in traffic and more. If possible, drive on the roads that you will be tested on so that you aren’t caught off guard by any surprises.

Close all

Taking the IN Driving Test: Frequently Asked Questions

How do I schedule my driving test?

Contact your local BMV office.

Where do I take the driving test?

The test will be administered at a BMV office near you. Note: if you enroll in a driver’s education course, you may be able to take your driving test at the end of the course instead of at a BMV office.

What should I bring to the driving test?

  • Proof of Identity (examples: birth certificate, passport)
  • Social Security Number (examples: Social Security card, W-2 form)
  • Proof of Citizenship or lawful presence (examples: birth certificate, passport)
  • Proof of residency (examples: bank statement, utility bill)

Here is a list of acceptable documents.

You will also need to bring:

  • A working vehicle
  • The vehicle’s registration
  • Proof of insurance

Who should bring me to the driving test?

A licensed parent or legal guardian should bring you.

What will I be asked to do on the driving test?

You will be asked to complete a series of maneuvers, such as parking, three-point turn, stopping, accelerating and more. You will also be required to drive in traffic where you will need to display good defensive driving skills and awareness of your surroundings.

What are the most common reasons new drivers fail the driving test?

There are a variety of reasons why new drivers fail the test – from making a series of small mistakes that add up to making larger mistakes like speeding, not checking mirrors or failing to come to a complete stop.

What are five mistakes I should be sure to avoid when taking the driving test?

  • Not signaling on turns
  • Not using proper hand position on the steering wheel
  • Not coming to a complete stop
  • Not checking your mirrors when making a lane change
  • “Tailgating” – or following too closely

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You may retake the test in 14 days.

How many times can I take the test?

If you fail three times, you will need to apply for another learner’s permit and hold it for 60 days before trying again.

I’ve passed the road test, now what?

You will receive your probationary license.

What restrictions come with an Indiana license?

For the first 180 days:

  • You cannot drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
  • You cannot have any passengers unless you are with a supervising licensed driver age 25 or older or a licensed spouse age 21 or older or your passenger is spouse, child or sibling.

After 180 days:

  • You cannot drive after 11 p.m. Sunday – Thursday, before 5 a.m. Monday – Friday and between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

What are the insurance requirements for drivers in IN?

Indiana drivers are required to carry car insurance. State law requires that you carry at least the following minimum coverage amounts:

  • Bodily injury (per person): $25,000.
  • Bodily injury (per accident – multiple people injured): $50,000.
  • Property damage (per accident): $10,000.
Close all

Renewing Your IN License: Frequently Asked Questions

What if I need to renew my license or replace a lost/stolen license?

If you are under 75 years old, you will need to renew your license every six years. If you are 75 to 84 you will need to renew it every three years. If you are 85 years old or older you will need to renew it every two years. Indiana driver’s licenses expire on your birthday and can be renewed online or in person.

Where can I renew my Indiana driver’s license?

You can renew your Indiana license online or at the local BMV office. Renewal fees range from $17.50 for six years to $11 for three years to $7 for two years.

Will I be required to take a vision test when renewing my license?

You will need to take a vision test, a written test and a driving test if you have six or more points on your license at renewal.

In Indiana, if you fail the vision test, you will be referred to an eye doctor for examination. You may then return to the branch office with a statement from an eye doctor certifying that your vision has been corrected to meet the state standard in order to receive your renewed license.

When you present the statement from an eye doctor, you will still be required to pass a vision screening at the branch. If you wear glasses or contact lenses to pass the test, a Type B restriction will be placed on your driver’s license. You need to see 20/20 or 20/40 out of both eyes to pass the test and have no restrictions on your license.

The Indiana BMV Test — What You Need to Know

Passing the state required permit test is one of the first steps towards getting your permit.   The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) is responsible for administering the test. The questions on the test are delivered in multiple-choice format and will test your knowledge of the rules of the road, Indiana traffic laws, and a variety of road signs. Getting your Indiana learners permit doesn’t have to be stressful. Instead, with the right study tools, obtaining your permit can be a pleasant and stress free experience.

Test Your Knowledge With IN BMV Practice Permit Tests

According to statistics, the majority of first time test-takers will fail the test this year?  What are the two biggest reasons why so many people fail the permit test? Poor preparation and lack of practice. Do you really want to take the test unprepared and put your driving future at risk?

On this page you’ll find a collection of essential test prep resources, including our interactive Indiana practice permit test and a copy of the official Indiana driver’s manual.

Indiana Driver's License Guide