Indiana permit test: learner's permit, probationary license and driver record
Learner's permit rules, probationary license passenger and time limits, financial liability, points, the Driver Safety Program, insurance and suspensions. 20 questions, 10 at a time, starting with ones you haven't seen.
Rules to remember10 key learner's permit, probationary license and driver record rulesShow the rules
- A standard Indiana learner's permit is valid for two years from the date it is issued. (p. 9)
- If you fail the knowledge exam, you must wait until the next business day before retaking it. (p. 10)
- After a failed driving skills exam you must wait seven days to retake it. (p. 12)
- With driver education you can apply at 16. (p. 14)
- You must hold a valid (not expired, suspended, or revoked) learner's permit for at least 180 days before getting a driver's license. (p. 14)
- After 180 days and while under 18, you may not drive after 11 p.m. (p. 15)
- For the first 180 days with a probationary license, you may not drive between 10 p.m. (p. 15)
- Points stay active on your driver record for two years from the date of conviction. (p. 26)
- Completing a BMV-approved Driver Safety Program earns a four-point credit, and each driver may receive one such credit in a three-year period. (p. 26)
- Speeding 16 to 25 mph over the limit is a 4-point violation. (p. 26)
Taken from the explanations to checked practice questions; page numbers link to the official handbook.
Sample learner's permit, probationary license and driver record questions
1.You are 15 and want an Indiana learner's permit. What must you show besides your identity and residency documents?
- AA completed and signed 50-hour supervised driving log
- BProof of enrollment in a BMV-licensed driver training program
- CProof that you carry car insurance in your own name
- DA signed letter of approval from your school principal
Show the answer
✓ B. Proof of enrollment in a BMV-licensed driver training program
At 15, you can get a learner's permit only if you are enrolled with a BMV licensed behind-the-wheel training provider and show its Certificate of Driver Education Enrollment.
Source: Indiana Driver's Manual (Published July 2026), page 8
2.You fail your first driving skills exam. How long must you wait before you can retake it?
- AUntil the next business day
- B30 days
- CSeven days
- DTwo months
Show the answer
✓ C. Seven days
After a failed driving skills exam you must wait seven days to retake it. After a third failure on the same permit, the wait is two months.
Source: Indiana Driver's Manual (Published July 2026), page 12
3.In your first 180 days with a probationary license, you want to drive a friend from school to practice. What is required?
- ANothing, as long as your friend also holds a license
- BA signed note from the school allowing the trip
- CYour friend must be at least 18 years old
- DA licensed driver 25 or older in the front passenger seat
Show the answer
✓ D. A licensed driver 25 or older in the front passenger seat
During the first 180 days you may not carry passengers unless a licensed driver at least 25, your licensed spouse at least 21, or a driver training instructor sits in the front passenger seat.
Source: Indiana Driver's Manual (Published July 2026), page 15
4.You are convicted of driving 20 mph over the speed limit. How many points will Indiana add to your record?
- A4 points
- B2 points
- C8 points
- D6 points
Show the answer
✓ A. 4 points
Speeding 16 to 25 mph over the limit is a 4-point violation. 1 to 15 mph over is 2 points, and 26 or more is 6 points.
Source: Indiana Driver's Manual (Published July 2026), page 26