How to Get an Indiana Driver's License

What You Need to Know Before You Go to the BMV

An Indiana driver's license is issued by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), a state agency that handles all driving credentials in Indiana. You will need to visit a BMV branch in person, bring specific documents, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The whole process typically takes several visits — one for your written permit test, then a separate visit for your driving test after you have practiced.

Indiana offers different types of licenses depending on your age and driving history. A standard driver's license is for people 18 and older. If you are under 18, you start with a learner's permit, then move to a probationary license, then to a full license at 18. Each step has different rules about who can ride with you and when you can drive.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a BMV branch in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to start the process.
First-time drivers under 18 must get a learner's permit, hold it for at least 180 days, then pass a driving test before getting a probationary license.
The written test covers Indiana traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official BMV manual available free online.
A standard Indiana driver's license costs around $20 to $30 depending on how long you want it to last, and you can renew it by mail or online if you have no violations.
Your license is valid for four or eight years depending on which term you choose at the time of issue.

Documents You Must Bring to the BMV

The BMV requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number (or a letter from Social Security if you do not have a number). Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

For proof of identity, bring a passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a state ID from another state. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must come with you and bring their own ID. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement with your current Indiana address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a letter from your landlord or a utility company on their letterhead confirming your address.

Getting Your Learner's Permit If You Are Under 18

If you are under 18, you cannot jump straight to a driver's license. You must first get a learner's permit, which allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. To get a permit, visit the BMV with your documents, take a written test on Indiana traffic laws and road signs, and pay the permit fee (around $20). You do not need to take a driving test yet.

Once you have your permit, you must hold it for at least 180 days before you can take the driving test. During this time, you can only drive with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old sitting next to you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. After 180 days have passed, you can return to the BMV to schedule your driving test.

Passing the Written Test

The written test has 50 questions about Indiana traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test is taken on a computer at the BMV, and you get your results when ready.

The BMV publishes the official Indiana Driver's Manual free on its website. Read through it before you go — it covers everything the test asks about, including speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, and what to do in bad weather. Many people study the manual for a few hours and pass on their first try. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day for another fee.

Taking Your Driving Test

The driving test is a practical exam where a BMV examiner sits in your car while you drive. The test lasts about 30 minutes and covers basic skills: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. You must bring a car that is registered and insured, and the examiner will check that the brakes, lights, and windshield wipers work.

You need to pass the written test first before you can schedule a driving test. If you are under 18, you must also have held your learner's permit for at least 180 days. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after waiting a few days and paying the fee again. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.

Paying the Fee and Choosing Your License Term

When you pass your tests and are ready to get your license, you will pay a fee at the BMV. The cost depends on how long you want your license to last. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Indiana also charges different fees for people under 21 versus 21 and older. Expect to pay between $20 and $30 for a four-year license and between $35 and $50 for an eight-year license, though exact amounts vary by year.

You can pay by cash, check, or card at the BMV. Once you pay, the BMV will take your photo and print your license on the spot. You will receive your physical card before you leave the branch.

Renewing Your License When It Expires

When your license is about to expire, the BMV will send you a notice in the mail. You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person at a BMV branch. Online and mail renewal are faster and cheaper than going in person — you do not need to retake the written or driving test unless you have had a violation or your license was suspended.

To renew online, visit the BMV website, enter your license number and personal information, pay the renewal fee, and submit. The BMV will mail your new license to your address within a few weeks. If you renew by mail, you will fill out a form, include a check, and mail it to the address on the BMV website. In-person renewal takes longer but is an option if you prefer to handle it face-to-face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you do not have a number, or bring a document showing you are not may be able to access for one. The BMV will issue your license with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Visit a BMV branch with your ID and proof of residency. You can request a replacement license for a fee (usually around $10 to $15). The BMV will print a new one with the same number and expiration date as your original.

Do I need to take the written test again if I move to Indiana from another state?

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for an Indiana license without retaking the written test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Indiana, and your Social Security number to the BMV. You will still need to pay the license fee.

How long does it take to get a license from start to finish?

If you are 18 or older, you can get a license in one or two visits — one for the written test and one for the driving test, which can happen the same day if you pass the written test. If you are under 18, the process takes at least six months because you must hold a learner's permit for 180 days before you can take the driving test.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it after a waiting period (usually a few days) and pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Most people pass within two or three attempts after practicing more.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.