How to Prepare for the Indiana Knowledge Test

To get your Indiana driver's license, the first step is passing the Indiana knowledge test. This multiple-choice test covers traffic laws, safe driving techniques, and traffic signs, based on the Indiana Driver's Manual.

No appointment is needed unless you're hearing-impaired or require the exam to be read aloud. Arrive at least an hour before the license branch closes to ensure enough time. If you fail, you must wait one business day to retake it.

Prepare by studying the Indiana Driver's Manual thoroughly and taking online practice tests to identify areas needing review. Proper preparation ensures a smooth path to passing the test.

Helpful Tips for Preparing for the Indiana Knowledge Test

Preparing for the knowledge test is like preparing for any test. The more you study, the more prepared you will be. If you wait until the night before the exam to try and cram everything in, it's likely that you won't do a very good job. Follow these helpful tips to ensure your success during the test.

Whenever you are riding in a vehicle, make sure to look around and test yourself on the various traffic signs that you encounter. Make sure to pay attention to the shape, color, and symbols that are on the signs. Some tests only show the shape and color of the sign, so learning to recognize them by color and shape can make the traffic-sign portion of the test much easier for you.
Have a family member or friend ask you different questions from the handbook about safe driving maneuvers. Answering questions verbally can help you retain the information better during the test. You can also have them read the questions from the practice test, and you write down your answers on paper.
If you have trouble retaining information, make sure that you take the practice test several times, as well as having people help you by asking you random questions from the handbook. You can even make your own flash cards if you are having a difficult time with signs or other aspects of the test.

What to Bring

If you plan on applying for your learner's permit the same day you take the knowledge test, there are documents that you will need to have with you. The documents are listed below.

Certificate of Driver Education Enrollment from a BMV-licensed school if you are 15 years of age (NOTE: if are 16 or older, you can apply for a learner's permit without enrollment in a driver education program)
Completed "agreement of financial liability" form; the adult signing the agreement must also present identification proving his or her identity and age
Documentation proving your identity & date of birth
Documentation containing your Social Security number
Proof of lawful status in the United States
Two documents proving your Indiana residency status

To learn more about documentation requirements for obtaining a permit, please visit the Indiana BMV website.

Plan to Succeed

The night before you take the test is not the time to stay up all night and worry. Get a good night's sleep so you will be clear-headed and rested. If you have followed the above tips for preparing for the Indiana knowledge test and have given yourself plenty of time to study properly, there will be no reason to stress.

If you will be applying for your learner's permit at the same time, put all your needed documents listed above in a folder and place it where you won't forget to bring it with you. If you are missing anything, you will not be able to get your permit until you provide ALL the documents required.

You don't want to eat a heavy meal that will sit in your stomach and potentially cause you to feel uncomfortable and ill, especially if you are nervous about taking the test. A light meal will prevent your stomach from growling and give you mental fuel as well.

Once you're taking the test, read the questions carefully and take your time. There is no need to rush through as fast as you can. Once the test is passed, you'll be ready for the next step, which is to get your permit. Good luck–you're going to do just fine!