Permit vs. Driver’s License in Indiana

1. What is the difference between a driver’s license and a permit in Indiana?


A driver’s license is a document issued by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) that allows an individual to operate a motor vehicle on public roads within Indiana. A permit is an authorized document issued by the BMV that allows an individual to practice driving a motor vehicle under specific conditions, and with adult supervision. A permit is a step towards obtaining a driver’s license and requires the holder to complete certain requirements before being eligible for a driver’s license.

2. How old must a person be to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


In Indiana, a person must be at least 16 years old to obtain a driver’s license or permit.

3. What documents are required to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


In order to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Indiana, applicants are required to provide proof of identity, proof of Social Security Number, proof of Indiana residency, and a valid form of payment. Applicants must also pass a knowledge test and vision screening. Additionally, applicants under 18 must provide proof of school enrollment or completion, as well as parent or guardian consent.

4. Is a permit required to drive in Indiana?


Yes, a valid driver’s license is required to drive in Indiana. Additionally, all drivers must have a valid vehicle registration and proof of insurance. Depending on the type of vehicle, additional permits may be required.

5. How long is a driver’s license valid for in Indiana?


A driver’s license is valid for four years in Indiana.

6. How long does it take to get a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


It typically takes 4-6 weeks to receive your driver’s license or permit in Indiana after you apply. The processing times may vary depending on the amount of applications the Bureau of Motor Vehicles is processing at the time.

7. What tests must be passed to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


In order to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Indiana, applicants must pass a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a driving skills test. The written knowledge test consists of questions about Indiana traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving techniques. The vision test checks to make sure that applicants can see clearly enough to safely operate a vehicle. During the driving skills test, applicants must demonstrate their ability to properly operate a vehicle and demonstrate their knowledge of safety procedures.

8. What restrictions are placed on holders of a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


Indiana drivers must abide by state laws regarding the operation of motor vehicles. This includes following all traffic laws, obeying speed limits, wearing a seatbelt, and not operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Drivers are also required to carry a valid form of identification and proof of financial responsibility (insurance) at all times when operating a motor vehicle. Drivers are prohibited from using cell phones or other handheld devices while driving unless it is hands-free and properly mounted. Drivers under 18 years of age are prohibited from having any passengers in their vehicle for the first 180 days after receiving their permit or license, unless the passenger is an immediate family member or 21 years of age or older. All drivers are prohibited from transporting an open container of alcoholic beverages in their vehicle.

9. What are the fees associated with obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


The fees associated with obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Indiana vary depending on the type of license or permit being obtained.

For a standard driver’s license, the fee is $17.

For a commercial driver’s license, the fee is $19.

For an ID card, the fee is $13.

For a learner’s permit, the fee is $9.

Fees may vary depending on the age of the applicant and other factors.

10. Are there any additional requirements to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Indiana for certain age groups?


Yes. For anyone under 18 years of age, the applicant must have held an Indiana learner’s permit for at least 180 days prior to applying for a driver’s license and have completed 50 hours of supervised practice driving, with at least 10 of those hours being completed at night. The applicant must also have the written consent of a parent or legal guardian.

11. Is there an age limit for obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


Yes, the minimum age for obtaining a driver’s license or permit in Indiana is 16 years old.

12. Are any special privileges given to holders of a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


Yes, holders of a valid driver’s license or permit in Indiana are eligible for a variety of privileges. These include access to discounted admissions to state parks, discounts on vehicle insurance premiums, and access to the state’s carpool lanes.

13. What is the process for renewing a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


In Indiana, driver’s licenses and permits are valid for six years and must be renewed every six years. To renew a driver’s license or permit in Indiana, you must visit a local Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles office. You must bring your valid driver’s license or permit, proof of identification, proof of residency and payment for the renewal fee. You may also need to take a vision test. If you have moved to a new address in Indiana, you must update your address with the BMV before your renewal is processed.

14. Are there any restrictions on who can operate a motor vehicle with a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


Yes, there are restrictions on who can operate a motor vehicle with a driver’s license or permit in Indiana. Drivers must be at least 15 years of age and must have a valid learner’s permit before they can apply for a driver’s license. Additionally, drivers must pass both a written and road test to obtain a driver’s license. Finally, all drivers are required to have auto insurance in order to legally drive in Indiana.

15. Are there any additional tests that must be taken to renew a driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


No, there are no additional tests that must be taken to renew a driver’s license or permit in Indiana. The only requirement is to provide proof of identity, residence, and Social Security number.

16. What are the penalties for driving without a valid driver’s license or permit in Indiana?


The penalties for driving without a valid driver’s license or permit in Indiana vary depending on the circumstances. Generally speaking, if someone is caught driving without a valid driver’s license or permit, they will likely face fines, license suspension, or both. Additionally, if the driver is involved in an accident while unlicensed, they may face increased penalties.

17. Is there an age requirement for obtaining an instruction permit in Indiana ?


Yes, the minimum age requirement to obtain an instruction permit in Indiana is 15 ½.

18. Are there any special considerations given to holders of an instruction permit in Indiana ?


Yes, holders of an instruction permit in Indiana may drive unsupervised between 5 a.m. and 1 a.m., provided they follow certain rules, such as carrying no more than one passenger under age 20 and obey all traffic laws.

19. Can holders of an instruction permit drive outside of their home state with their instruction permit in Indiana ?


No, holders of an instruction permit in Indiana are only allowed to drive within the state.

20. Are there any restrictions on drivers younger than 18 operating vehicles with an instruction permit in Indiana ?


Yes. Drivers younger than 18 with an instruction permit are not allowed to drive between 10 PM and 5 AM unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age. They are also limited to carrying only one additional passenger who is not a family member.