What you need to get an Indiana learner's permit

Indiana issues a learner's permit (also called a learner's license) through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. You must be at least 15 years old, have a valid Social Security number, and provide proof of identity and residency. The permit lets you drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and sitting beside you in the front seat.

You do not need a learner's permit to take driver education classes in Indiana, but you do need one before you can take the driving test for a regular license. The permit itself is valid for one year from the date it is issued.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Indiana residency to the BMV.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices from the Indiana Driver's Manual.
  • You pay a one-time fee when you get your permit; the amount varies slightly by BMV branch but is typically under $30.
  • Once you have your permit, you must follow learner restrictions: a licensed adult 21 or older must be in the front seat with you at all times.
  • Your permit is valid for one year, and you can take the driving test anytime after you have held it for at least 50 hours of supervised driving.

Documents to bring to the BMV

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or state ID card as proof of identity. If you do not have one of these, the BMV accepts a combination of documents — ask your local branch which secondary documents they will take. You will also need your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.

For proof of Indiana residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address. A school enrollment letter or tax return also works. Bring the original document, not a photocopy.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They must sign the process form in front of the BMV clerk. If your parent or guardian cannot come, you will need a notarized consent form signed by them.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 50 questions and covers road signs, traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. All questions come from the Indiana Driver's Manual, which you can read online at the BMV website or pick up at any BMV branch. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass.

The test is given on a computer at the BMV office. You can take it in English or Spanish. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay the fee again each time you test.

The BMV does not offer a written test by mail or online. You must go to a BMV branch in person to take it.

Fees and how long the permit lasts

The fee for a learner's permit is a one-time charge that covers the cost of the permit itself and the written test. The exact amount varies slightly between BMV branches but is typically between $20 and $30. Some branches may charge a small additional fee if you need a replacement permit due to loss or damage.

Your permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If it expires before you pass your driving test, you will need to renew it and take the written test again. Renewal costs the same as the original permit.

Restrictions while you hold a learner's permit

Indiana's learner's permit comes with specific rules you must follow. A licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must be in the front seat with you at all times. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only teenage passengers.

You cannot use a cell phone or other electronic device while driving, even hands-free. This rule applies to all new drivers in Indiana, not just permit holders. You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless a parent, guardian, or licensed adult 21 or older is in the vehicle with you.

Seat belts are required for all passengers. If you are caught breaking any of these rules, the officer can confiscate your permit, and you will have to reapply and retake the test.

When you can take the driving test

You must hold your learner's permit for at least 50 hours of supervised driving before you can take the driving test for a regular license. Indiana does not require you to log these hours officially, but it is a good idea to keep a record in case there is a question about your experience. The 50 hours should include at least 10 hours of night driving.

You can schedule your driving test at any BMV branch. The test takes about 30 minutes and includes both on-road driving and parking. You must bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving during the test. The vehicle must be registered and in safe working condition.

What happens if you fail the written test

If you do not pass the written test on your first try, you can retake it when ready or schedule another appointment for a later date. There is no mandatory waiting period between attempts. Each time you take the test, you pay the fee again.

Before you retake the test, review the Indiana Driver's Manual and focus on the areas where you struggled. The BMV website has practice tests that can help you prepare. Some BMV branches also offer in-person help if you ask the clerk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I am homeschooled?

Yes. You do not need to be enrolled in a public or private school to get a learner's permit. You must still be at least 15 years old and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Indiana residency to the BMV.

What if I move to Indiana from another state with a permit from my old state?

Indiana will not recognize an out-of-state learner's permit. You must get an Indiana learner's permit by taking the written test at the BMV. You can transfer your driving record if you have one, but the permit itself must be issued by Indiana.

Can I take the written test more than once in a single day?

Yes. If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day without waiting. You will pay the fee each time you test. Most people find it helpful to study the manual between attempts rather than retaking the test when ready.

Do I need to take a driver education class before I get my learner's permit?

No. Driver education is not required to get a learner's permit in Indiana. However, completing a driver education course may lower your car insurance rates and is required by some insurance companies for teenage drivers.

What do I do if my learner's permit gets lost or damaged?

Go to any BMV branch and ask for a replacement. Bring your proof of identity and residency again. You will pay a replacement fee, which is typically the same as the original permit fee. You do not need to retake the written test.