What You Need to Do to Get a License in Indiana
Indiana issues first-time driver's licenses through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). The process has three main steps: pass a written knowledge test, pass a driving skills test, and submit the required documents in person at a BMV branch. You cannot complete any of these steps online or by mail. The entire process typically takes two to four weeks from start to finish, though you can take both tests on the same day if you are ready.
Indiana does not issue a learner's permit as a separate document the way some states do. Instead, you take the knowledge test first, and if you pass, you receive a temporary instruction permit that lets you practice driving with a licensed adult. After you pass the driving test, you receive your full license at the BMV branch.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a BMV branch in person three times: once to take the knowledge test, once to take the driving test, and once to pick up your license after approval (or you can combine the knowledge and driving tests on the same day if you schedule ahead).
- Bring your Social Security number, proof of Indiana residency, proof of legal presence, and a completed process (Form DL 44) to your first visit.
- The knowledge test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; the driving test is a 20- to 30-minute evaluation of your ability to operate a vehicle safely.
- Indiana charges $20 for a four-year license or $28 for an eight-year license; fees are paid at the BMV branch, not in advance.
- You must be at least 16 years old to take the knowledge test and at least 16 years and 6 months old to take the driving test.
Documents You Must Bring to the BMV
Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. You will need proof of your legal name, proof of your Social Security number, proof of Indiana residency, and proof of legal presence in the United States.
For proof of legal name, bring a certified birth certificate, passport, or court order showing your name. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. For proof of Indiana residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days. Your name must appear on the residency document.
For proof of legal presence, bring a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a permanent resident card (green card). If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may still obtain an Indiana driver's license, but you must bring additional documentation — contact your local BMV branch for the specific requirements for your immigration status.
You also need to complete Form DL 44 (process for Indiana Driver's License or Permit) before you arrive. You can read it from the Indiana BMV website or pick up a copy at the branch. Bring it filled out but unsigned; you will sign it at the BMV.
Taking the Knowledge Test
The knowledge test is a computer-based exam with 50 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass (80 percent). The test covers Indiana traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and what to do in emergency situations. You have up to one hour to complete it.
Indiana provides a free study guide on the BMV website called the Indiana Driver's Manual. Read it before you take the test — it covers everything that will be on the exam. Many people also use the BMV's online practice test, which is free and shows you the types of questions you will see.
You can take the knowledge test at any BMV branch. There is no appointment required, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Arrive early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon to avoid peak hours. If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day at no additional cost.
Scheduling and Taking the Driving Test
After you pass the knowledge test, you receive a temporary instruction permit. You must then schedule an appointment for the driving test. You can schedule online through the Indiana BMV website, by phone at 1-888-692-6841, or in person at any BMV branch. The driving test is not first-come, first-served; you must have a scheduled appointment.
The driving test takes 20 to 30 minutes. An examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the vehicle, turning, stopping, backing up, and parking. You will also drive on local roads and demonstrate that you can follow traffic laws and respond safely to other vehicles and pedestrians. The examiner is looking for safe vehicle control and your ability to obey traffic signs and signals.
You must bring the vehicle you will be tested in, and it must be in safe working condition. The vehicle must have valid registration, valid insurance, and working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and mirrors. If the vehicle fails a safety check, you cannot take the test and will need to reschedule.
You must also bring your temporary instruction permit and a valid photo ID to the driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least one day and schedule a new appointment. There is no fee to retake the test.
What Happens After You Pass the Driving Test
Once you pass the driving test, the examiner will tell you that you have passed. You do not receive your license when ready. Instead, the BMV processes your process, which typically takes five to ten business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the branch that is valid while you wait for your plastic card to arrive by mail.
Your plastic license will be mailed to the Indiana address you provided on your process. If you move before it arrives, contact the BMV to update your address. The license is valid for four years (if you are under 21) or eight years (if you are 21 or older). You can choose which term you prefer when you pay the fee.
Fees and Payment
Indiana charges $20 for a four-year license or $28 for an eight-year license. You pay this fee at the BMV branch after you pass the driving test, before you leave. The BMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. There are no additional fees for taking the tests or for processing your process.
If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, the fee is $10. If you need to change your name or address on your license, there is no fee, but you must visit a BMV branch in person.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not bring photocopies of your documents. The BMV requires originals or certified copies. If you bring a photocopy, you will be turned away and must return another day with the correct documents.
Do not forget to sign your process. You must sign Form DL 44 in front of the BMV staff member. If you sign it before you arrive, it will not be accepted.
Do not assume you can take the driving test without scheduling an appointment. Indiana requires appointments for the driving test. Walk-ins are not accepted, and you will be turned away if you do not have a scheduled time.
Do not take the driving test in a vehicle that has not been inspected. The examiner will check the vehicle's safety features before the test begins. If anything is broken or missing, the test will be cancelled and you will need to reschedule.
Do not expect to receive your plastic license when ready. You will get a temporary paper license at the branch, but the plastic card arrives by mail in five to ten business days. Plan ahead if you need your license for travel or identification purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the knowledge test and driving test on the same day?
Yes, if you schedule both appointments in advance. Call 1-888-692-6841 or use the BMV website to schedule the driving test after you pass the knowledge test. Some branches can fit both tests into one visit, but you must ask when you schedule.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake it after waiting at least one day. There is no fee to retake the test. You must schedule a new appointment through the BMV website or by phone. You keep your temporary instruction permit while you prepare to retake the test.
Do I need to bring my own vehicle for the driving test?
Yes. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the lights, wipers, mirrors, and brakes before the test begins. If the vehicle fails inspection, you cannot take the test that day.
How long is my temporary paper license valid?
Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days while you wait for your plastic license to arrive by mail. If your plastic license does not arrive within 30 days, contact the BMV to request a replacement.
What if I move before my license arrives?
Contact the BMV to update your address. You can call 1-888-692-6841 or visit a BMV branch in person. Provide your old address and your new Indiana address. The BMV will redirect your license to your new address or issue a replacement at the new address.