Indiana Permit Test FAQ
Plain-English answers about the Indiana permit test, from the Indiana Driver's Manual. Always check the official guide for the current rules.
The knowledge exam
How many questions are on the Indiana permit test?
The Indiana knowledge test has 50 questions, and you need 42 right (84%) to pass. It has 2 parts, and each must be passed: traffic signs (14 of 16), traffic maneuvers (28 of 34). Our full practice exam uses the same size and pass mark. Always confirm the current test with the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
What is on the Indiana knowledge exam?
Multiple-choice questions in two parts: one on traffic signs and one on traffic maneuvers. It covers Indiana law, defensive driving and the Driver's Manual. (Indiana Driver's Manual, p. 5)
What if I fail the knowledge exam?
You may try again on the next business day. (Indiana Driver's Manual, p. 5)
Can I take the exam late in the day?
Arrive at least half an hour before the branch closes if you want to test that day; the exam is taken on a computer. (Indiana Driver's Manual, p. 5)
Your learner's permit
How old must I be for an Indiana learner's permit?
16, or 15 if you show you're enrolled in a BMV-licensed behind-the-wheel driver education course. (Indiana Driver's Manual, p. 3)
Who can I practice driving with?
Under 18: a licensed relative aged 25 or older, a licensed spouse aged 21 or older, or a driving school instructor, sitting in the front passenger seat. (Indiana Driver's Manual, p. 4)
How long is a learner's permit good for?
Two years from the day it's issued. (Indiana Driver's Manual, p. 4)
Your first license
When can I get my driver's license?
After at least 180 days with the permit: at 16 with driver education finished, or at 16 years and 270 days without it, plus 50 logged practice hours. (Indiana Driver's Manual, p. 9)
What limits come with a probationary license?
For the first 180 days, no passengers unless a qualified adult rides up front (family exceptions apply) and no driving from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.; later curfews last until you turn 18. (Indiana Driver's Manual, p. 10)
Page numbers are the ones printed on the handbook pages; tap one to open the official PDF at that page. A PDF viewer counts the cover too, so its page numbers run 5 higher.