US Driver's License

Anyone living in the state of Indiana and driving a car here must have a valid driver’s license. You may drive legally in Indiana if you have a current International Driver’s License (issued for one year only). It is advisable, however, to obtain an Indiana license even if your international license is still valid.

Where to Go to Get a License?

To get a license, you must go to any License Branch of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). There are three license branches of BMV in St. Joseph County:

What to Bring to the BMV?

You need to bring:

1. Passport with an I-94 card stapled inside
   *Anything that can establish your identity, date of birth, and residency. A home country license is no longer acceptable as a form of identification.
2. Your social security card
   *The Social Security Admission will not issue a number to anyone solely for the purpose of obtaining a driver’s license, but if you are not eligible to hold a Social Security number, you may complete a BMV Social Security Affidavit to meet this requirement. See the Web at www.in.gov/bmv/driverlicense/idreq.html.
3. A utility bill, bank statement, or official piece of mail with your current mailing address.

How to Get a License?

You will be required to take a written test concerning driving laws and practices. To prepare for the written examination, you should study the Indiana Driver Manual, which is published both in English and Spanish. Copies are available at the BMV, or you may also download the manual from the Web at www.in.gov/bmv/driverlicense/manual/index.html.

After you pass the written test and a vision screening, the BMV will issue to you a learner permit. You may operate a vehicle on your learner permit only when accompanied by a licensed driver who is seated beside you.

When you are ready to take the driving test, call the BMV to make an appointment at least 10 to 14 days in advance of the day you hope to take the test. See the driver manual about providing a vehicle.