How to Get Your Indiana Learner's Permit (BMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Learner's Permit through the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Learner's Permit in Indiana, you must be at least 15 (with driver education) and apply in person at the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Indiana's BMV knowledge exam has separate road-sign and traffic-law sections drawn from the Indiana Driver's Manual. Teens complete supervised practice and probationary restrictions on the way to a full license.
Documents to bring to the BMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity, such as a valid U.S. passport or a certified birth certificate.
- Proof of Social Security number, such as a Social Security card, W-2 form, or a pay stub showing your full SSN.
- Proof of lawful status in the United States (for applicants who are not U.S. citizens, documentation of legal presence).
- Two unique documents proving Indiana residency, such as a utility bill, bank statement, or signed lease; if you lack two, an Indiana Residency Affidavit signed by an adult who lives with you may be used.
- For applicants under 18, a parent or legal guardian must appear to sign an Agreement of Financial Liability and provide proof of their own identity and age.
- For applicants who are 15 (and under 16), a valid Certificate of Driver Education showing enrollment in an approved driver education course.
The knowledge test
In Indiana, the knowledge test is taken in person. A computer-based, multiple-choice knowledge exam taken in person at a BMV branch, split into two sections (traffic maneuvers and road signs), each requiring at least 80% to pass.
Rehearse with our free Indiana practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Indiana Practice Test →Fees
The BMV charges $9.00 for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the BMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Indiana uses a graduated driver licensing (GDL) system. A permit holder must always be supervised by a licensed driver at least 25 years old (or a spouse at least 21) seated in the front passenger seat, and must complete required supervised practice, including at least 10 hours of nighttime driving, before advancing to a probationary license.
Indiana permit FAQ
How many questions is the Indiana permit test?
The BMV knowledge test has about 50 questions, and you need 40 of 50 (80%), across separate road-sign and traffic-law sections to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Indiana permit test online?
In Indiana, the knowledge test is taken in person. A computer-based, multiple-choice knowledge exam taken in person at a BMV branch, split into two sections (traffic maneuvers and road signs), each requiring at least 80% to pass.
What do I need to bring to the BMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Indiana residency, plus anything required for a Learner's Permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Indiana permit?
You can apply for a Learner's Permit at 15 (with driver education) in Indiana, provided you meet the BMV's other requirements.
How much does a Indiana permit cost?
The BMV charges $9.00 for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the BMV.
What happens if I fail the Indiana permit test?
If you fail the knowledge exam, you must wait until the next business day before retaking it. Once passed, your results remain valid for 180 days.
Official sources: www.in.gov · www.in.gov · www.in.gov