Indiana requires all underage drivers to participate in a Graduated Driver Licensing program. This program states that those under 18 must obtain a learner’s permit, that graduates to a full license as the driver gains experience and age, to drive legally in the state. In order to obtain a driver’s permit, there are certain steps that must be followed. Here is a simple guide to getting an Indiana driver’s permit:
Learner’s permit
In order to apply for a learner’s permit in Indiana, drivers must be between 15 and 17 years of age, and must be currently enrolled in a driver’s education course that is state-approved if they are under 16 years old.
The course must include at least 30 hours of classroom learning, and six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction. If a driver is over 16 years and three months of age, they do not need to have taken driver’s education to apply for a learner’s permit.
While using the learner’s permit, the driver must complete 50 hours of supervised practice, including at least ten hours at night. All driving must take place under the supervision of a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old. If the learner is married, a spouse at least 21 years old may supervise them.
In order to apply for a learner’s permit, an Indiana teen must bring required legal documents, as well as an application that has been signed by a parent or legal guardian to their written exam appointment. They will also be given a vision test, and must pay a $9 fee.
Required documents
When you arrive at the Indiana BMV to take a driver’s permit exam, you must bring the following legal documents:
Two documents that act as proof of address, such as a bank statement or a school report card. For drivers under 18, a parent or legal guardian must submit a residency affidavit and provide their driver’s license and proof of residency.
Proof of identity, such as a birth certificate, or a valid U.S. passport.
One document that proves social security number, such as a social security card or a W-2 form.
Proof of citizenship, for drivers who were born outside of the U.S.
Proof of enrollment in a state-approved driver’s education program for drivers under 16.
Passing the exam
The Indiana written exam covers all of the traffic laws, road signs, and driver safety information that is necessary for driving on the roads. It also covers state-specific laws that residents of Indiana need to know in order to drive safely and legally.
The Indiana driver’s manual provided by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles covers all the information that a student needs in order to pass the exam. They also provide a practice exam through an iPhone or Android device app that can help students gain confidence before they take the exam.
Failure to pass the exam results in a 24-hour wait before a driver can re-take the exam.
