Indiana’s driver licensing system is designed to help you become a safe driver over time. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) has set up a process that includes stages, so you gradually gain experience before getting a full license.

Here’s how it works:

1. Learner’s Permit:
   You can apply for a learner’s permit at age 15 if enrolled in a BMV-approved driver education course.
   To get your permit, you must:

   • Pass a vision screening

   • Pass a written knowledge test

   • Show proof of enrollment in driver education

   When driving with a learner’s permit, you must be accompanied by:

   • A licensed driving instructor

   • A licensed parent, guardian, or step-parent who is at least 25 years old

   • A spouse who is at least 21 years old and holds a valid driver’s license

2. Supervised Driving Requirements:
   Before applying for a driver’s license, you must complete:

   • 50 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night

   • 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a licensed instructor if enrolled in driver education

3. Probationary Driver’s License:
   You can apply for a probationary driver’s license at:

   • 16 years and 90 days old if you completed driver education

   • 16 years and 270 days old without driver education

   You must have held your learner’s permit for at least 180 days and passed the driving skills test.

   Note: The probationary license has restrictions such as limits on passengers and driving late at night for drivers under 21.

4. Full Driver’s License:
   When you turn 21, probationary restrictions are lifted and you receive a full, unrestricted driver’s license.

The licensing system is intended to give you time to develop good driving habits before driving independently.