How to Get an Indiana Driver’s License in 2025: A Complete Guide

Table Of Content

Are you ready to become a licensed driver in Indiana? Getting behind the wheel has never been easier! Our easy-to-follow guide will walk you through the steps to get your Indiana learner’s permit and driver's license. From gathering the right documents to tips on passing your road test, we'll help get you through the process smoothly. Discover what you need to apply, prepare for your tests, and get your license quickly.

Understanding the Different Driver's License Classes in Indiana

Here’s a quick rundown of the different Indiana driver’s classes to help you understand which class might be right for you:

• Class A: This is for those who want to drive big rigs or tractor-trailers. This is your class if you aim to drive anything over 26,000 pounds and tow something hefty.

• Class B: Perfect for driving larger vehicles like delivery trucks or buses. You’ll handle vehicles weighing over 26,000 pounds but won’t be towing heavy trailers.

• Class C: This is the standard license for most drivers. It covers regular cars, small trucks, and vehicles that don't require a Class A or B.

• Motorcycle License: If you’re into bikes, you’ll need this special license to ride safely and legally.

Each class has its own set of requirements and tests. Make sure to pick the one that matches your driving goals.

How to Get an Indiana Driver’s License

Getting your Indiana driver’s license is easy with the Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) system. The GDL process helps new drivers gain experience gradually and safely.

Here’s how you can get started:

1. Start by getting your learner’s permit.

2. Get your probationary license.

3. Apply for your full driver’s license.

Stage 1: Indiana Learner’s Permit: A Guide for Beginners

If you’re over 15 years old and looking to apply for your driver’s license, you should start by getting an instruction permit. Regardless of age, every Indiana resident who wishes to get a driver’s license must first get a learner’s license. Then after holding their permit for a minimum of 180 days, the driver can proceed with the other steps of the GDL system.

Eligibility Criteria

You must meet the following criteria to be eligible for an Indiana’s instruction permit:

• You must be at least 15 years old and enrolled in a state-approved driver education program.

• If you’re not enrolled in a driver education program, you can apply at age 16.

• If you’re under 18, you’ll need a parent or guardian to sign your application and agree to financial responsibility.

• You must fulfill all the documentation requirements (mentioned below).

Documents Required

You must visit an Indiana BMV with the following:

1. Proof of Identity and Legal Presence

   • A document that verifies your legal name and date of birth.

   • Proof of lawful status in the U.S., such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.

2. Social Security Number (SSN)

   • Your Social Security card or another official document that includes your SSN.

   • If you don’t have an SSN, you must provide proof of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration.

3. Indiana Residency

   • Two documents that confirm your current residential address in Indiana, such as utility bills, bank statements, or a lease agreement.

All documents must be original or certified copies.

Validity

An Indiana instruction permit is valid for two years. Drivers must hold it for at least 180 days or six months before moving to the next step in the GDL process.

Process

Follow these steps for your Indiana learner’s permit:

1. Head to your nearest BMV branch to apply. You can use their map to find a convenient location.

2. Pick up and fill out the application form at the BMV office. If you’re under 18, remember that a parent or guardian needs to co-sign it with you.

3. Bring all the necessary documents (mentioned above). Use a checklist to make sure you’ve got everything.

4. Show your course provider's Certificate of Driver Education enrollment if you’re 15. This isn’t required if you’re 16 or older.

5. You’ll need to pass a vision exam at the BMV. If your vision doesn’t meet the state’s standards, you must visit an eye doctor and return with a statement confirming that your vision has been corrected.

6. Take the written knowledge test. If you don’t pass on your first try, you can retake it the next business day.

7. Get your learner’s permit photo taken! Make sure you’re camera-ready.

8. Pay the $9 fee. Payment methods include check, cash, or card (MasterCard or Visa).

9. Receive your temporary learner’s permit and wait for your permanent one to arrive by mail within 14 days. If it doesn’t, visit a BMV or call 888-692-6841.

Practice for your Indiana learner’s permit test to pass your DMV exam stress-free.

Restrictions

Here are the restrictions and guidelines for driving with an Indiana learner's permit:

1. Supervision Requirements

   Ages 16-18: You must have one of the following licensed individuals in the front seat next to you:

   • A BMV-licensed driving instructor

   • A licensed relative who is at least 25 years old

   • Your spouse, if they are licensed and at least 21 years old

   Ages 18+: Your driving supervisor must be:

   • A licensed driver who is at least 25 years old

   • Your spouse, if they are at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver’s license

2. Driving Hours

You can drive during daylight hours with your supervisor. Be sure to practice driving in various conditions to gain confidence. Practice driving at night, but only under the direct supervision of your licensed supervisor.

3. Passenger Limitations

Limit the number of passengers in the vehicle, especially if they are not family members, to minimize distractions.

4. Practice Sessions

Practice consistently to build your skills over time. Keep a log of your practice hours to track your progress and meet the state requirements.

5. Curfew Regulations

Be aware of any curfew regulations in your area which might restrict nighttime driving for young drivers.

6. Zero Tolerance for Alcohol and Drugs

Absolutely no alcohol or drugs should be in your system while driving. Indiana has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving.

7. Responsible Driving

Always stay focused on the road, follow all traffic rules, and avoid distractions like using a phone. You and all passengers must wear seat belts at all times.

Stage 2: A Guide to IN Probationary Driver’s License

Getting a restricted or probationary driver’s license is the second step of the Indiana GDL program. It allows a legal driver in the making to drive but with certain restrictions.

Eligibility Criteria

You are eligible for an Indiana probationary license if you're at least 16 years and 90 days old, but under the age of 21.

Documents Required

You'll need to provide the following documents for an Indiana probationary license:

1. Proof of Identity and Legal Presence

   • A document that verifies your legal name and date of birth.

   • Proof of lawful status in the U.S., such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.

2. Social Security Number (SSN)

   • Your Social Security card or another official document that includes your SSN.

   • If you don’t have an SSN, you must provide proof of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration.

3. Indiana Residency

   • Two documents that confirm your current Indiana residential address, such as utility bills, bank statements, or a lease agreement.

4. Driver Education Completion Certificate

   • If you are under 18, you must present a certificate showing you completed an approved driver education program.

5. Learner’s Permit

   • Your valid Indiana learner’s permit, which you must have held for at least 180 days.

All documents must be original or certified copies.

Validity

The Indiana probationary license is valid until you turn 21 years old. Once you reach 21, you'll need to upgrade to a full, unrestricted driver's license.

Process

Here's how you can apply for an Indiana probationary license in simple steps:

1. Hold your learner's permit for at least 180 days. Use this time to practice supervised driving.

2. If you complete an approved driver education program, you can apply once you’re 16 years and 90 days old. If not, you must wait until you’re 16 years and 270 days old to apply.

3. Visit any BMV branch office to apply in person. You can use their map to find the nearest location.

4. Submit your driving log with at least 50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night). It must be signed by your guardian, parent, driving instructor, or another responsible adult.

5. Pick up and fill out the application form at the BMV. If you're under 18, your parent or guardian will need to co-sign it.

6. Bring the required documents mentioned above. Keep a checklist handy.

7. Take a vision exam. If your vision doesn’t meet state requirements, visit an eye doctor and return with a certification that your vision has been corrected.

8. Schedule and pass your driving test. If you completed driver’s ed with an 80% or higher grade and passed a driving test at the school, submit your driving test waiver to skip the BMV driving skills exam.

9. Pay the $17.50 fee. Multiple payment methods like cash, check, and card (Visa or MasterCard) are available.

10. Get your photograph taken and surrender your learner’s permit. You’ll receive a temporary license after your photo. This will be valid for 30 days. Your permanent license should arrive within 14 days.

Note: Your probationary license expires a month after your 21st birthday. You can renew it the day after you turn 21 to receive a full, unrestricted license.

Restrictions

Your probationary license allows you to drive unsupervised with these restrictions:

First 180 Days:

• No unsupervised driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.

• No passengers allowed except immediate family members

After the First 180 Days:

No unsupervised driving during:

• Sunday through Thursday: After 11 p.m.

• Monday through Friday: Before 5 a.m.

• Saturday and Sunday: Between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Exceptions include:

• Traveling to or from work

• Attending a school-sanctioned activity

• Going to or from a religious event

Stage 3: Getting Your Full Indiana Driver’s License

Getting your full Indiana driver’s license is the final step in becoming an independent driver. Once you meet the requirements, including holding a learner's permit and provisional license, you can apply for your full license. This license allows you to drive without restrictions, giving you complete driving privileges across the state.

Eligibility Criteria

You must meet the following criteria to be eligible for a full driver’s license in Indiana:

1. You must be at least 21 years old.

2. You should have held a probationary driver’s license, which expires 30 days after your 21st birthday.

3. You must have a clean driving record with no serious violations.

4. After your 21st birthday, you must renew your probationary license to receive a full, unrestricted driver’s license.

5. If you're over 21 and have a learner's permit in Indiana, hold it for 180 days and take and pass a driving test.

Documents Required

You need to provide the same documents for a full license as a probationary license, including:

1. Proof of Identity and Legal Presence

   • A document that verifies your legal name and date of birth.

   • Proof of lawful status in the U.S., such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.

2. Social Security Number (SSN)

   • Your Social Security card or another official document that includes your SSN.

   • If you don’t have an SSN, you must provide proof of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration.

3. Indiana Residency

   • Two documents that confirm your current Indiana residential address, such as utility bills, bank statements, or a lease agreement.

4. Driver Education Completion Certificate

   • If you are under 18, you must present a certificate showing you completed an approved driver education program.

5. Learner’s Permit

   • Your valid Indiana learner’s permit, which you must have held for at least 180 days.

All documents must be original or certified copies.

Validity

A full Indiana driver’s license is valid for six years. However, the duration can vary based on your age and circumstances at the time of issuance. For example, if you are 75 or older, your license might be valid for a shorter period, such as three years.

Process

If you're ready to get your full Indiana driver's license and you have a learner's permit, here's what you'll need to do:

1. Hold your learner's permit for at least 180 days and practice driving under supervision during this time.

2. Log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.

3. Visit any BMV branch office to apply. Use the BMV map to find a nearby location.

4. Fill out an application form available at the BMV office.

5. Bring the above-listed required documents. Use the BMV checklist to ensure you have everything you need.

6. Take a vision exam. If your eyesight doesn’t meet the state standards, visit an eye doctor and confirm that your vision meets the requirements.

7. Schedule and pass your test. Your appointment can be booked online or by calling the BMV.

8. Pay the $17.50 fee. Multiple payment methods are accepted, including check, cash, or card (MasterCard or Visa).

9. Get your picture taken and surrender your IN learner’s permit.

Restrictions

Here are some restrictions that apply to your full Indiana driver's license if you’re under 21:

1. You cannot drive with passengers for the first 180 days unless they are your siblings, your child, or your spouse. The only exception is if you have a qualified adult (25+ years old) in the front passenger seat.

2. You may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, or between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. After your first 180 days of driving, you may drive during these hours only if it is related to work, school, or a religious event.

3. You're not allowed to use a phone or other electronic device while driving, except in emergencies.

Indiana Written Knowledge Test

The Indiana Written Knowledge Test assesses your understanding of road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. It's an essential step in the licensing process designed to ensure that all drivers have the knowledge required to drive responsibly.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the IN written knowledge test:

Indiana Driving Skills Test

The Indiana driving skills test assesses your understanding of a vehicle's essential features and your ability to drive safely while following traffic laws. The test requires you to demonstrate your competence in handling the vehicle and making sound decisions on the road.

How to Schedule the Driving Skills Test

Your car test can be scheduled at a BMV unless you've already passed the exam at a driving school approved by the BMV and received a waiver. To book your test, make an appointment online or call the BMV at 888-692-6841. Be sure to schedule your test at least 48 business hours in advance but no more than 14 days before your desired date.

What Happens Before the Skills Test?

There’s much to do before the skills test, so come prepared.

Driving Test Necessities

Here’s what you’ll need when visiting the BMV center for your test:

• Bring your vehicle, ensuring it's in good condition and clean.

• Have the vehicle’s registration and proof of liability insurance on hand.

• Ensure someone with a valid driver's license accompanies you to the BMV.

• Turn off any interior cameras in your vehicle.

• Only the BMV examiner or authorized BMV staff are permitted in the car with you during the exam.

What Happens During the Driving Skills Test?

Skills to Demonstrate

The BMV examiner will guide you through the test, giving you instructions to follow as you operate your vehicle. While they fill out a form during the exam, try not to let it distract you—focus on driving safely. Here are the skills you should be ready to demonstrate:

• Driving within the correct lane

• Using your mirrors and checking blind spots when backing out of a parking space

• Approaching and navigating intersections properly

• Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles

• Following all speed limits

• Using proper signaling before turns or lane changes

• Executing smooth and accurate parallel parking, including checking traffic, signaling, and positioning your vehicle correctly

• Practicing good defensive driving habits and staying aware of the traffic flow around you

Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid during your driving test:

• Driving too close to other vehicles

• Failing to signal or leaving the turn signal on after a lane change

• Not checking blind spots

• Overrunning a stop sign, stop line, or crosswalk

• Driving too slowly for the conditions

• Forgetting to use the defroster or wipers when needed

• Backing up too quickly

• Failing to keep both hands on the wheel

Critical Driving Test Errors

Here are some critical driving errors that will result in an automatic failure during your driving test:

• Causing an accident during the test

• Disobeying traffic signals, stop signs, yield signs, or school zone rules

• Hitting the curb or a parked car while parallel parking

• Not following the examiner's instructions

• Failing to wear a seat belt

• Not responding to hazardous driving conditions

• Speeding or driving too fast for the road conditions

• Using or turning into the wrong lane

• Passing in a no-passing zone or crossing a solid yellow line

• Driving on the wrong side of the road or straddling lanes

• Driving too close to pedestrians or cyclists

• Not pulling over for emergency vehicles or stopping for school buses

• Ignoring laws at railroad crossings

What Happens After the Driving Test?

The BMV examiner will let you know if you've passed or failed after the exam. Moreover, they will go over your mistakes.

If you don't pass the exam, you must wait 14 days before retaking the test. If you fail three times in a row, there’s a two-month waiting period before your next attempt.

Indiana Driver’s License for New Residents

If you move to Indiana and hold a driver's license (non-commercial) from another state or country, it must be transferred to Indiana within 60 days of getting your residency.

Are You an Indiana Resident?

You're officially considered an Indiana resident if:

• You live in Indiana and don't claim residency in any other state.

• You're registered to vote in Indiana.

• Your child is enrolled in an Indiana school (elementary or secondary).

• Over half of your gross income is from Indiana sources.

If any of these apply to you, it’s time to switch over to an Indiana driver's license.

What to do If You Have an Out-of-State License

If you're moving to Indiana from another U.S. state and have a valid driver's license, here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility

1. You must be at least 16 years and 180 days old.

2. You must bring your current license.

3. You must have documents verifying your:

   • Legal name

   • Birthdate

   • Signature

   • Lawful status in the U.S.

   • SSN (or proof of ineligibility)

   • Indiana residential address

Process

Here’s what you need to do to transfer your out-of-state driver's license to Indiana:

1. Visit a BMV office to fill out the application form.

2. Bring the required documents.

3. Pass your vision exam. If you don’t meet state standards, you must visit an eye doctor and bring back a statement that your vision has been corrected.

4. Take and pass the written knowledge exam at a BMV office, no appointment is needed. If you fail, you can retake it the next working day.

5. Get ready for your driver's license photo.

6. Pay the fee. It is based on your age:

   • Ages 21–74: $17.50 - 6-year license

   • Ages 75–84: $11 - 3-year license

   • Ages 85+: $7 - 2-year license

7. Submit your out-of-state driver’s license.

8. Receive your temporary Indiana driver’s license, valid for 30 days. Your permanent license should arrive within 14 days.

What to do If You Have a Foreign License

Transferring your foreign driver’s license is like transferring an out-of-state license (see steps above).

Here are some key differences between the transfer processes:

• No Surrender Requirement: You don’t need to give in your foreign license unless you’re a U.S. citizen.

• Translation Requirement: If your license isn’t in English, you’ll need to submit an English translation or International Driving Permit.

• Driving Skills Exam: After passing the written exam, you must also pass a driving skills exam.

• License Validity: The validity of your Indiana driver’s license is dependent on your age when it’s issued. If you’re a temporary state resident, your license may expire sooner, aligning with the end of your stay in the U.S.