Indiana learner's permit costs $20 and lasts four years

An Indiana learner's permit costs $20 and is valid for four years from the date you receive it. You pay this fee when you pass the written knowledge test at a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branch. There are no separate process fees — the $20 covers the permit itself.

The permit allows you to drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting beside you in the front seat. You must have held your learner's permit for at least 180 days before you can move to the next step, which is taking the driving test for your provisional license.

Key Takeaways

  • A learner's permit in Indiana costs $20 and remains valid for four years.
  • You pay the $20 fee only once, at the BMV branch where you pass your written test.
  • You must hold the learner's permit for at least 180 days before you can take the driving test.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity to the BMV to take the written test.

What documents you need to bring to the BMV

Before you go to the BMV to take the written test, gather these documents. You will need your Social Security number (or a letter from Social Security if you do not have a number), a document proving your Indiana residency, and a document proving your identity.

Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill — all dated within the last 60 days. For identity, bring a birth certificate, passport, or state ID. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must sign a consent form at the BMV. Bring that signed form with you.

How to schedule your BMV appointment and take the test

You can schedule an appointment online through the Indiana BMV website or call your local BMV branch directly. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments usually move faster. The written test covers Indiana traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 80 percent of the questions correctly to pass.

The test takes about 30 minutes. Once you pass, you pay the $20 fee and receive your learner's permit on the spot. If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day or return another day at no extra charge.

Restrictions that come with your learner's permit

While you hold a learner's permit, Indiana law sets specific rules you must follow. You cannot drive alone — a licensed adult at least 21 years old must be in the front seat with you at all times. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in an emergency.

You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. If you are under 18, these rules are stricter than they are for adults with learner's permits. Breaking these rules can result in a ticket and may delay your ability to take the driving test.

What happens after your 180-day waiting period ends

Once you have held your learner's permit for at least 180 days, you can schedule a driving test at the BMV. The driving test costs an additional fee — this varies depending on whether you use your own vehicle or the BMV's test vehicle, so ask your local branch for the exact amount when you schedule.

The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle operation, parking, turning, and following traffic laws. If you pass, you receive a provisional license, which allows you to drive without a supervising adult but with some restrictions. If you do not pass, you can retake it after waiting a few days.

Renewing your learner's permit if it expires

Your learner's permit is valid for four years. If you do not pass your driving test before it expires, you will need to renew it. Renewal costs $20, the same as the original permit. You do not have to retake the written test — you can renew online or at the BMV by paying the fee.

However, if more than one year has passed since you took your original written test, the BMV may require you to take a new written test before renewing. Call your local BMV branch to ask whether you need to test again, since this can vary by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online instead of going to the BMV?

No. Indiana requires you to take the written test in person at a BMV branch. You cannot take it online or by mail. However, you can study for the test using the official Indiana BMV handbook, which is free to read from the BMV website.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day or return another day at no extra charge. There is no waiting period between attempts. Most people pass on their second try if they study the handbook between tests.

Do I have to pay the $20 fee again if I retake the test?

No. You only pay the $20 fee once, when you pass the test and receive your permit. If you fail and retake it, there is no additional charge.

Can I get a learner's permit if I am over 18?

Yes. Adults can get a learner's permit at any age. The cost is the same ($20), and the rules are mostly the same, except adults with learner's permits can drive between midnight and 5 a.m. without restriction.