Getting an Indiana learner's permit
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
Enroll in driver education to apply at 15, or wait until 16 to apply without it.
Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Gather proof of identity, Social Security number, lawful status and two Indiana residency documents.
Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Study the Indiana Driver's Manual for the knowledge exam.
Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Go to a branch at least 30 minutes before closing; no appointment is needed for the exam.
Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pass the vision screening and the knowledge exam with 80% on each section.
Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026If under 18, bring an adult to sign the agreement of financial liability.
Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- Minimum age for a learner's permit
- 15 if enrolled in an approved driver education (behind-the-wheel) course; 16 without driver education.Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Learner's permit fee
- $9.00 (fee chart revised 1/1/26).Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Adult co-signer (financial liability)
- Applicants under 18 need a parent, guardian or other adult to sign an agreement of financial liability in person at a branch.Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit validity
- A learner's permit is valid for two years from issue.Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit holding period
- Hold the learner's permit for 180 days (about six months) before getting a probationary license (no holding period at 18 and older for drivers with disabilities completing rehab training).Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Who can supervise a permit driver
- Under 18: a licensed driver 25 or older related by blood, marriage or legal status, a licensed spouse 21 or older, or a licensed instructor, seated in the front passenger seat.Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Knowledge test passing score
- 80% or higher on each of the two sections (traffic maneuvers and traffic signs).Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Wait after failing the knowledge test
- Until the next business day.Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Wait after failing the driving test
- 7 days; after three failed driving tests on a permit, wait two months.Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Knowledge test languages
- Offered in about 20 languages including Spanish, Arabic, Burmese, Chin, French, Haitian Creole, Hindi, Mandarin, Punjabi, Russian and Vietnamese, plus ASL interpreter by appointment.Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Documents to bring
- Proof of identity, Social Security number, lawful status and two documents proving Indiana residency.Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Appointments
- No appointment for the knowledge exam (arrive at least 30 minutes before closing); driving tests require an appointment 48 hours to 3 weeks ahead.Source: in.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Indiana guide
Official Indiana links
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