What you need to get an Indiana driver's license

Indiana issues driver's licenses through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). To get one, you must be at least 16 years old, prove your identity and Indiana residency, pass a written test on traffic laws, and pass a driving test. You'll also need to provide your Social Security number and proof of lawful presence in the United States.

The process differs slightly depending on whether you're a first-time driver, moving to Indiana from another state, or renewing an expired license. Indiana also offers a Real ID-compliant license, which is required for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights or entering federal buildings after May 7, 2025. A standard Indiana license works for driving but not for those federal activities.

You cannot get an Indiana license by mail or online. You must visit a BMV branch in person, bring your documents, and complete the tests on site.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a BMV branch in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of Indiana residency to get a license.
  • A Real ID-compliant license requires additional documentation like a birth certificate or passport, but a standard Indiana license does not.
  • You must pass a written test on Indiana traffic laws and a practical driving test before the BMV issues your license.
  • If you hold a valid license from another state, you can exchange it for an Indiana license without retaking the written test, though you may still need the driving test depending on your age and driving history.

Documents you need to bring to the BMV

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth. You also need a document showing your current Indiana address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your full Social Security number.

If you want a Real ID-compliant license, bring the same documents plus one additional proof of residency (two total). Real ID requires the BMV to verify your identity and residency more thoroughly, so the extra document helps meet federal standards.

If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They must sign your process in person at the BMV. If you're 18 or older, you can explore alone.

The written test and what it covers

The BMV 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 speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle hazardous driving situations.

You can take the test on a computer at the BMV branch. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test, but you must pass before you can schedule a driving test.

The BMV provides a study guide online at in.gov/bmv that covers all the topics on the test. Many people study this guide for a few hours before their appointment and pass on the first try.

The driving test and scheduling

After you pass the written test, you schedule a separate appointment for the driving test. The BMV examiner will ask you to drive for about 15 to 20 minutes on local roads. They will watch how you handle turns, stops, parking, and how you respond to traffic and pedestrians. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

The driving test is pass or fail. If you fail, you can retake it, but you must schedule a new appointment. Wait times for driving test appointments vary by BMV branch and season — some branches have openings within a week, while others may have a wait of several weeks, especially in spring and summer.

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state and you're 18 or older, Indiana may waive the driving test. Contact your local BMV branch to ask whether you may have access to for this waiver.

Costs and how long it takes

An Indiana driver's license costs $20 and is valid for eight years. A Real ID-compliant license costs $5 more ($25 total) and is also valid for eight years. You pay at the BMV when you explore.

The timeline depends on how quickly you pass the written and driving tests. If you pass both on your first try and schedule your driving test when ready, you could have your license within a few days to a few weeks. If you need to retake either test or if your local BMV has a long wait for driving test appointments, it may take longer.

The BMV issues your license on the day you pass the driving test. You receive a temporary paper license that day and the plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If you're moving to Indiana from another state

If you hold 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 Indiana residency, and your Social Security number to the BMV. You may still need to take the driving test depending on your age and how long your out-of-state license has been valid.

If your out-of-state license is expired, you must take both the written and driving tests, just as a first-time applicant would. If your license is suspended or revoked in any state, Indiana will not issue you a license until that suspension or revocation is lifted.

The exchange process is faster than explore as a new driver because you skip the written test. The cost is the same: $20 for a standard license or $25 for Real ID.

Suspensions, revocations, and SR22 requirements

If your Indiana license is suspended, you cannot legally drive. A suspension is usually temporary — it lasts for a set period, such as 30 days or six months, depending on the reason. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, accumulating too many points from traffic violations, or driving with a suspended license.

A revocation is more serious and permanent unless you go through a formal reinstatement process. Revocations happen for reasons like multiple DUI convictions, reckless driving, or refusing a breathalyzer test.

If you're convicted of certain traffic offenses — particularly DUI or driving with a suspended license — Indiana may require you to file an SR22 form before you can get your license back. An SR22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that your insurance company files with the BMV. It proves you have liability insurance. You cannot get a license without an active SR22 on file if one is required for your situation. Your insurance company handles filing the SR22; you do not file it yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get an Indiana driver's license if I don't have a birth certificate?

You need one of these documents: an original or certified birth certificate, a valid passport, a consular report of birth, or a state ID card. If you don't have a birth certificate, a passport works. If you have none of these, contact the BMV to ask what other documents they will accept.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it. Schedule a new appointment at your BMV branch. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the driving test. Many people pass on the second or third attempt after more practice.

Do I need insurance before I take the driving test?

You need a vehicle that is insured and registered to take the driving test. The vehicle does not have to be in your name, but it must have active liability insurance. Bring proof of insurance (your insurance card) when you come for the test.

Can I get a Real ID license if I was born outside the United States?

Yes, if you have proof of lawful presence in the United States. This can be a valid passport, a birth certificate from a U.S. territory, a certificate of naturalization, or a green card. Bring whichever document you have along with your other required documents.

How do I know if I need an SR22 to get my license back?

The BMV will tell you when you explore or when your suspension ends. If an SR22 is required, you cannot get your license until your insurance company files it with the BMV. Contact your insurance agent and tell them you need an SR22 filed.