What you need to get an Indiana driver license as a new driver
Indiana issues driver licenses through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). To get your first license, you must visit a BMV branch in person with specific documents, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The process takes multiple visits — you cannot complete everything in one appointment.
You will need to bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card or tax document), and proof of your Indiana address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person at the BMV.
The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices specific to Indiana. The driving test happens after you pass the written exam and shows an examiner that you can operate a vehicle safely on public roads. Both tests must be passed before the BMV issues your license.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a BMV branch in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and Indiana address to start the process.
- Indiana requires both a written test on traffic laws and road signs and a separate driving test before issuing a license.
- If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present to sign your process at the BMV.
- Your first license costs a set fee that varies depending on how long you want the license to be valid, and you can renew it by mail later.
- Graduated licensing rules for drivers under 18 restrict when and how you can drive during your first year with a license.
The written test and what it covers
The BMV written test has 50 multiple-choice questions about Indiana traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle hazards like pedestrians and weather.
You can study using the official Indiana BMV Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the BMV website. Many people also use practice tests online to get familiar with the question format. You are allowed to take the written test multiple times if you do not pass on your first try, though you may have to pay a retest fee each time.
The test is offered in English and several other languages. You can request an interpreter or reader if you need one, but you must arrange this when you schedule your appointment or arrive early to request it at the branch.
The driving test and what examiners look for
After you pass the written test, you schedule a separate appointment for the driving test. During this test, an examiner rides with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you arrange) and watches how you handle basic driving tasks. The test typically lasts 15 to 20 minutes and includes driving on local roads, parking, and responding to traffic situations.
Examiners check whether you can start the vehicle smoothly, maintain control, obey traffic signals and signs, use mirrors and turn signals correctly, and park without hitting curbs or other vehicles. They also watch how you respond to other traffic and whether you follow the speed limit. Common reasons people fail include not coming to a complete stop, failing to signal, hitting a curb while parking, or not checking mirrors before changing lanes.
You must bring the vehicle you will drive during the test to your appointment. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check that the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn all work before the test begins.
Graduated licensing rules for drivers under 18
Indiana's graduated licensing system places restrictions on new drivers under 18 during their first year with a license. These rules are designed to reduce crashes among young drivers by limiting high-risk situations.
During the first 180 days after you receive your license, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving — not even hands-free — except to report an emergency. Passengers under 18 are limited: you can have no more than one passenger under 18 in the car with you, unless that passenger is a family member.
After the first 180 days, some restrictions ease. You can drive during more hours, but the cell phone ban and passenger limits remain in effect until you turn 18 or have held your license for one year, whichever comes later. These rules explore even if you are driving with a parent or guardian in the car.
Documents to bring and fees
Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. For proof of identity, bring a passport, birth certificate, state ID, or military ID. For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. For proof of your Indiana address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address.
If any of your documents are not in English, bring an official English translation along with the original. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change.
The fee for a new driver license in Indiana depends on how long you want it to be valid. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. You will also pay a separate fee to take the written test and another fee for the driving test. Fees do not change often, but you can confirm current amounts on the BMV website or by calling your local BMV branch before you go.
How long the process takes from start to finish
The entire process from your first visit to receiving your license typically takes two to four weeks, though it can be faster or slower depending on how quickly you schedule appointments and pass the tests. Your first BMV visit is for paperwork and the written test — this usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. If you pass the written test, you schedule the driving test for a later date, which might be within days or a few weeks depending on availability at your local branch.
After you pass the driving test, the BMV issues your license on the spot or mails it to you within a few days. During the waiting period, you can request a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days while your permanent license is being processed.
Scheduling appointments in advance is faster than walking in without one. Many BMV branches allow you to schedule online or by phone. During busy seasons — typically late spring and summer — wait times for appointments can be longer, so plan ahead if you need your license by a specific date.
What happens if you fail the written or driving test
If you fail the written test, you can retake it after waiting a set number of days — usually at least one day. You will pay a retest fee each time you take the test again. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after studying the BMV manual more thoroughly or using practice tests.
If you fail the driving test, you must wait before scheduling another attempt. The waiting period is typically a few days to a week. Common reasons for failing include hitting a curb, failing to stop completely at a stop sign, not signaling before turning, or hitting another vehicle during parking. You can ask the examiner for feedback on what you did wrong so you can practice those specific skills before your next test.
There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test, but each attempt costs money and takes time. Many people benefit from taking a few driving lessons with an instructor between test attempts to build confidence and correct specific mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online or by mail?
No. Indiana requires you to take the written test in person at a BMV branch. You must show a valid ID to prove your identity before taking the test. However, you can study for the test online using practice materials and the official BMV Driver's Manual before your appointment.
Do I need a permit before I can take the driving test?
No. Indiana does not require a separate learner's permit step for new drivers. You take the written test and driving test, and once you pass both, you receive your license. Some people choose to get a permit first to practice driving with a licensed adult, but it is not required.
What if I fail the driving test because of the examiner's car breaking down?
If the test cannot be completed due to a vehicle problem or other issue on the BMV's side, you will not be charged a retest fee and can reschedule at no cost. If you cause damage to the examiner's vehicle during the test, you may be responsible for the cost of repairs.
Can I use my phone for GPS during the driving test?
No. Using any handheld device, including a phone for GPS, is not allowed during the driving test. The examiner will give you verbal directions or you should be familiar enough with the test route to drive without GPS. Ask the BMV what roads the test covers so you can study the route beforehand.
How long is my new driver license valid?
Indiana driver licenses are valid for either four or eight years, depending on which option you choose when you explore. You select the length when you pay the fee. After your license expires, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a BMV branch.