In Indiana, you can start the process of getting your driver's license at the age of 15 as long as you meet the proper requirements. To learn how to get your learner's permit and then your driver's license, check out this guide.
How to Get Your Driver's License in Indiana
Earning your driver's license in Indiana isn't too complicated. It begins by getting your learner's permit, doing some behind-the-wheel practice, and finally taking your licensing tests. Once you complete all of these tasks, you'll earn your first taste of freedom.
1. Enroll in an Approved Driver's Education Course
If you want to get a jump start on your peers in getting your license, you need to register for an approved behind-the-wheel training course. Otherwise, you'll have to wait until you turn 16 to start your permit process.
2. Gather Your Documents
No matter if you are applying at 15 or 18 years old, you need the same identifying documents. You must present one document from each list except for the Indiana residency list, which requires two documents.
Identity List
Birth certificate
U.S. passport
Certificate of citizenship form
Lawful Status List
Birth certificate
U.S. passport
Certificate of citizenship form
Social Security List
Social Security card
W-2 form
Pay stub containing your name and FULL Social Security number
Indiana Residency List
Pay stub
W-2 form
Indiana residency affidavit
One document can cover multiple categories, but you just need as many documents as required to satisfy all four lists. In addition to these four lists, the applicant must have proof of financial liability signed on the back of the learner's permit application by a parent or legal guardian.
3. Ace Your Tests
Once you have all of your documents ready, you need to take a knowledge test followed by a vision test. The knowledge test consists of 50 questions across two sections. There are 34 on the rules of the road and 16 on road signs. You need to get at least 42 questions correct to pass. Appointments are not required for this test unless you need an interpreter — just show up at least an hour before your local testing center closes.
Once you pass your written test, you need to take your vision test. You'll do this right after the written test, so bring any corrective eyewear you wear to take this test. You may avoid the test if you have a form from your eye doctor.
4. Rack Up Practice Hours
In order to get your driver's license, you have to rack up 50 hours of supervised driving, 10 of which have to be at night. You also need to log all of the hours as you complete them. Your driving companion needs to meet the following requirements:
A licensed relative over the age of 25 such as a parent.
A licensed spouse over the age of 21.
A licensed driver education instructor or certified driver rehabilitation specialist.
5. Apply for Your Probationary Driver's License
Now that you have 50 logged hours, you're ready to take your driving test and another vision test and get your license. You can schedule your test up to three weeks in advance and need to show up 15 minutes ahead of time. There are certain age restrictions on when you can apply:
If you completed your driver's education, you can apply at 16 years and 90 days old.
If you didn't complete your driver's education, you can apply at 16 years and 270 days old.
Once you earn your probationary driver's license, it is valid until 30 days after your 21st birthday. You can then finally upgrade to a full Indiana driver's license.
Enjoy Driving With Your License in Indiana
Getting your driver's license is one of the first major milestones in a teen's life. It shows a lot of responsibility and dedication. Another way to brush up on your skills before you apply for your license is by taking a driver's education course through Aceable.com. You'll learn the skills you need to stay safe on the road all from the comfort of your own home.
Updated 11/23/22