Are you ready to get your driver’s license in Indianapolis? Smart move! While the Indygo public transportation system offers a means of getting around the city, life in Indy is a whole lot easier with a driver’s license. No need to worry about bus schedules or walking to the nearest stop in the freezing winter or humid summer. Simply climb in your climate-controlled car whenever you want with your Indiana driver’s license.
Not sure where to start the process? No problem! Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting your driver’s license in Indianapolis.
How to Get a License in Indianapolis
Step 1: Enroll in Indiana Driver’s Ed
Enrolling in driver’s ed gives you the option to get your learner’s permit at 15 instead of waiting until you’re 16. This means you’ll get your license sooner (and all the freedom that comes with it). And with today’s convenient online driver’s ed options, there’s no need to wait! You can study from anywhere directly on your smartphone. And be ready to pass the written test to get your permit thanks to our study guide. Which leads us to the next step…
Step 2: Pass the Written Test and Vision Test at Your Local Indianapolis BMV
To get your learner’s permit, you need to pass a written knowledge test and a vision test at your local Indianapolis BMV. There are BMV branches all over the city, including:
Indianapolis - Central on Madison
Indianapolis - South on Meridian
Indianapolis - Midtown on Meadows
For a full list of Indianapolis BMV branches with opening hours and directions, check out the Indiana BMV branch finder.
Oh, and you’ll need to have appropriate documentation with you when you go to the BMV to get your learner’s permit. This includes proof of ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of Indiana residency. Check our complete list of required documents before you go to your Indianapolis BMV.
Step 3: Practice, Practice, Practice
With your learner’s permit in hand, it’s time to practice driving in the real world. You need 50 hours of behind-the-wheel practice with a licensed driver who’s at least 25. And to make sure you’re comfortable driving after dark, at least 10 of your 50 hours need to be completed at night. These hours are required if you want to get your Indiana driver’s license, so start practicing early and often!
Step 4: Schedule Your Driving Test at Your Local Indianapolis BMV
So when can you schedule your behind-the-wheel driving test? You’re ready to schedule it once you:
Are at least 16 years and 90 days old
Have had your permit for at least six months
Have completed your 50 hours of supervised driving practice
You can schedule your driving test online through the BMV website. Simply choose your local Indianapolis BMV branch, and select “Schedule a Driving Test” from the right-hand menu.
Make sure you have all your documentation with you again for this appointment. The BMV will need it to administer your test.
During your driving test, you’ll get in the car with a BMV employee who will give you directions as you drive around the city. You’ll be tested on common driving behaviors like changing lanes, parking, and navigating intersections.
Step 5: Get Your Shiny New Indiana Driver’s License
Pass your driving test, and you’ll walk away with your brand new Indiana driver’s license!
One more important note: your initial driver’s license has a few restrictions. This “probationary license” keeps you from driving at dangerous times of day (like 11:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.) and limits the passengers you can have in your car. But don’t worry, those restrictions will disappear when you turn 18.
Until then, drive safe, and enjoy your newfound freedom!
Get Started Today
Are you ready to get your driver’s license in Indianapolis? Enroll in your online Indiana driver’s ed course today!