Hoosier on Wheels: Your Step-by-Step Guide to an Indiana Driver's License

Getting your driver's license in the Hoosier State is a major milestone, unlocking the freedom to explore everything from the bustling circle of Indianapolis to the quiet country roads. The journey to becoming a licensed driver involves several key stages managed by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

This comprehensive guide will serve as your roadmap, breaking down Indiana's Graduated Driver's License (GDL) program for teens and outlining the process for adults, ensuring you arrive at the BMV confident and prepared for every step.

For Teen Drivers (Under 18): The Graduated Driver's License (GDL) Program

To ensure young drivers gain experience in a safe, controlled manner, Indiana has a GDL program. This system is designed to gradually introduce teens to more complex driving situations as they gain skills and maturity.

Step 1: Start with Driver's Education

The journey in Indiana begins with driver education, which allows you to get your permit earlier.

• Eligibility: You can enroll in a state-approved driver education course at 15 years old.
• Course Requirements: The course must include 30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a certified instructor.

Step 2: The Learner's Permit

Once you're enrolled in driver's ed, you can apply for your learner's permit.

Who is eligible?

• 15 years old: If you are actively enrolled in a driver education program.
• 16 years old: If you are not taking a driver education program.

How to get your Learner's Permit:

1. Gather Your Documents: You will need to bring several key original documents to the BMV, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate), Social Security number, proof of signature, and two proofs of Indiana residency. This is a crucial step for getting a REAL ID.
2. Visit a BMV Branch: You must apply in person. It's highly recommended to schedule an appointment online. At your visit, you will:
   • Submit your application and all required documents.
   • Have a parent or legal guardian present to sign a financial responsibility agreement.
   • Pay the required permit fee.
   • Pass a vision screening.
3. Pass the Knowledge Exam: You must pass a written test based on the "Indiana Driver's Manual." The test consists of identifying traffic signs and answering multiple-choice questions about traffic laws.

Rules of the Road with a Learner's Permit:

• You must always be accompanied by a licensed driving instructor or a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old (or a spouse who is at least 21) and is seated in the front passenger seat.
• You must log 50 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night. This must be documented in a Log of Supervised Driving.

Step 3: The Probationary Driver's License

After holding your permit for the required time and completing all training, you are eligible for a probationary license.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 16 years and 90 days old if you have successfully completed a driver's ed program.
• You must be at least 16 years and 270 days old if you have not completed a driver's ed program.
• You must have held your learner's permit for at least 180 days (6 months).

How to get your Probationary License:

The final step is to pass the driving skills test (road test). You must schedule an appointment for this test at a BMV branch.

GDL Restrictions on a Probationary License:

• Nighttime Curfew: For the first 180 days of being licensed, you cannot drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless traveling for work, school, a religious event, or if accompanied by a licensed driver 25 or older.
• Passenger Restrictions: For the first 180 days, you cannot have any passengers unless they are your sibling, child, or a licensed driver 25 or older (or spouse 21 or older) is in the front seat.

These restrictions are lifted after 180 days. You will hold the probationary license until you turn 21.

For Drivers 18 and Over

If you are 18 or older and applying for your first Indiana license, the process is more direct.

1. Visit a BMV Branch: Make an appointment and bring your original documents for a REAL ID.
2. Pass the Tests: You must pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. You will then be issued a learner's permit to practice.
3. Take the Road Test: While there is no 180-day waiting period, you must hold your permit for a short time and feel competent enough to pass the driving test.
4. Pay the Fee and Get Your License: Once all tests are passed and documents are verified, you'll pay the licensing fee and receive your full driver's license.

New to Indiana? Transferring Your License

If you move to Indiana and hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you must obtain an Indiana license within 60 days of establishing residency.

• Make an appointment at a BMV branch.
• Surrender your out-of-state license.
• Provide full documentation for a REAL ID.
• Pass a vision screening.
• The written test is required for all new residents.
• The road test is waived if your out-of-state license has been valid for at least one year and is not expired.

By understanding these steps and preparing for each one, you can successfully navigate the process and earn the privilege of driving in the Hoosier State.