License Requirements

Age Requirements for Indiana Driver's Licenses

2 min read

Understanding Indiana's graduated driver licensing (GDL) system is essential for new drivers and their guardians. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) outlines specific age-based milestones for obtaining various driving privileges. Here's a detailed breakdown of the requirements.

Learner's Permit

Age 15

At 15, individuals may apply for a learner's permit only if enrolled in an approved driver education program. Enrollment proof is mandatory at the time of application.

Age 16

Without driver education, individuals must wait until they are 16 to apply for a learner's permit. Regardless of age, all applicants must pass a vision screening and a knowledge exam.

Supervised Driving Requirements:

Permit holders must complete 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.
Supervision must be by a licensed driver at least 25 years old, or a spouse who is at least 21.

Probationary Driver's License

After holding a learner's permit for at least 180 days, individuals can apply for a probationary license, provided they meet the following age criteria:

Age 16 and 3 months: If the applicant has completed an approved driver education program.
Age 16 and 9 months: Without completion of driver education.

Applicants must also pass a driving skills test and submit a log of supervised driving hours.

Probationary License Restrictions:

Passenger Restrictions: For the first 180 days, no passengers are allowed unless accompanied by a licensed instructor, a licensed driver 25 or older, or a spouse who is at least 21.
Night Driving: No driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. for the first 180 days.
Cell Phone Use: Prohibited while driving, except in emergencies.

Full Driver's License

At age 18, individuals are eligible for a full, unrestricted driver's license. Probationary restrictions are lifted, and the license is no longer marked as probationary.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information on Indiana's licensing process, consider the following resources:

For official and up-to-date information, visit the Indiana BMV website.