Indiana requires a written test, a driving test, and proof of identity and residency to get a driver's license

To get a driver's license in Indiana, you will need to pass a knowledge test about traffic laws, pass a driving skills test with an examiner, and bring documents that prove who you are and where you live. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) handles all licenses. You can take your tests at any BMV branch, and the whole process usually takes a few weeks from start to finish if you pass on your first attempt.

Indiana issues licenses to people 16 and older. If you are under 18, the rules are stricter — you must hold a learner's permit for at least 50 days before you can test for a full license, and you cannot drive alone until you turn 16 and a half. Adults 18 and older can skip the learner's permit stage and go straight to the full license test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, a Social Security card or tax document, and proof of your current Indiana address to the BMV.
  • The written test covers Indiana traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free BMV handbook available on the Indiana BMV website.
  • The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and tests your ability to handle basic maneuvers, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions.
  • Indiana licenses expire every six years for adults and every four years for people under 21.

Documents you must bring to the BMV

Indiana requires you to bring specific documents to prove your identity and residency. You will need an original or certified birth certificate (not a photocopy), your Social Security card or a tax return showing your Social Security number, and proof of your current Indiana address. The address proof can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the change. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or permanent resident card along with your birth certificate. The BMV will not accept photocopies of your birth certificate or Social Security card, so bring the originals.

You will also need to fill out an process form (Form DL-43) before you test. You can read this from the Indiana BMV website or fill it out at the branch. Bring a valid out-of-state driver's license if you have one — the BMV will keep it when you get your Indiana license.

The written knowledge test

The written test has 50 questions about Indiana traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergency vehicles and school buses.

The Indiana BMV provides a free handbook called the Indiana Driver's Manual on its website. You can read it online or read it as a PDF. Many people study the manual for a few days before taking the test. The test is given on a computer at the BMV branch, and you get your score when ready after you finish.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may have to pay the test fee again depending on your branch.

The driving skills test

After you pass the written test, you schedule an appointment for the driving test. The test lasts about 30 minutes and takes place on public roads near the BMV branch. An examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches you drive. They will ask you to perform basic maneuvers like parking, backing up, turning, and stopping. They also watch how you handle traffic, obey speed limits, and respond to other drivers.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before you start driving. If anything is broken or missing, the test will be cancelled and you will need to reschedule.

You must also bring a licensed driver who is at least 18 years old to sit in the vehicle with you during the test — this person cannot be the examiner. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after waiting at least one day. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.

Age requirements and learner's permits for drivers under 18

If you are under 18, Indiana requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least 50 days before you can take the driving test. To get a learner's permit, you must pass the written test and bring the same documents you would need for a full license. The permit costs less than a full license and is valid for one year.

While you hold a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting next to you in the front seat. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. These rules help new drivers gain experience in safer conditions.

Once you have held your permit for 50 days and passed the driving test, you get a full license. If you are under 16 and a half, your license will have restrictions — you still cannot drive alone, and the same nighttime and phone rules explore. At 16 and a half, those restrictions are removed and you can drive alone.

License fees and expiration dates

Indiana charges a fee for each license, and the amount depends on how long the license is valid. A standard driver's license for someone 21 or older costs a set amount and is valid for six years. A license for someone under 21 is valid for four years and costs less. You pay the fee when you pass your driving test and receive your license.

Your license will show an expiration date on the front. You can renew your license before it expires by visiting the BMV in person or, in some cases, by mail or online if you meet certain conditions. Indiana does not allow online renewal for first-time licenses, so you must go to a branch for your initial license.

Where to go and how to schedule your test

Indiana has BMV branches in most counties. You can find the branch nearest you on the Indiana BMV website by entering your county or city. Each branch handles written tests and driving tests, though some branches are busier than others and may have longer wait times.

You can walk in to take the written test at most branches without an appointment, but you must schedule an appointment for the driving test. You can schedule online through the Indiana BMV website, by phone, or in person at a branch. Appointments fill up quickly in busy areas, so schedule as soon as you are ready to test.

Bring all your documents with you on the day of your test. If you are missing any required document, the BMV will not let you test and you will have to reschedule. Arrive at least 15 minutes early so you have time to check in and fill out any remaining paperwork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a license if I do not have a birth certificate?

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can bring other documents that prove your identity and age, such as a passport, permanent resident card, or court records. Contact your local BMV branch to ask which documents they will accept in place of a birth certificate, since options vary by situation.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after waiting at least one day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Each attempt costs the test fee again. Many people pass on their second or third try after practicing more.

Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a license from another state?

If you move to Indiana and already have a valid driver's license from another state, you may be able to transfer it without taking the written test. Bring your out-of-state license and proof of Indiana residency to the BMV. Rules vary slightly by state, so ask at your local branch.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the test?

You receive a temporary paper license when ready after you pass the driving test. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving until the permanent one arrives.

Can I renew my license online?

Indiana allows online renewal only if your license is not expired and you meet other conditions. First-time licenses must be obtained in person at a BMV branch. Check the Indiana BMV website to see if your situation qualifies for online renewal.