How to Get Your Instruction Permit in Ohio

Are you anxious to get behind the wheel but aren't sure where to start? The entire process of earning a drivers license can seem a little daunting, but don't let it stop you from reaching your goal. Just think, sweet independence is around the corner!

It starts with getting your Ohio learners permit (also called a temporary instruction permit or TIPIC). This gives you a real opportunity, real time to build the skills necessary to pass your BMV road test and become a safe driver.

How to Earn an Ohio Temporary Instruction Permit

Ohio teens can apply for a permit as early as 15½ years old—but first they must enroll in a 24-hour online driving school in Ohio course with eight hours behind-the-wheel driving.

Drivers education teaches important traffic rules and prepares you for the written Ohio bmv temp test. At the end of the course, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion that proves you've finished your drivers education and ready to earn a temporary instruction permit.

Everyone under 18 must meet these requirements for an Ohio temporary instruction permit:

• Be at least 15 years and 6 months old
• Be enrolled in an approved drivers ed course and eight hours of in-car driving

When you're ready to take your written permit test, save time by scheduling an appointment at your local BMV location.

BMV Requirements for License Application

What do you need to get your temps in Ohio? Be sure to bring these with you to the BMV:

• Proof of your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, citizenship, or legal status, and residency. See a list of acceptable documents.
• Proof of completion of a drivers education course.
• An application fee.
• A completed Ohio temporary permit application. A parent or legal guardian must co-sign this application and provide proof of identification.

You will be required to pass both the knowledge test and vision screening at a Drivers Examination Station. The knowledge test includes 40 multiple-choice questions on motor vehicle regulations and traffic signs. You must answer 75 percent of the questions correctly to pass. Once you've passed the tests, you will be issued a temporary instruction permit.

How to Graduate up to an Ohio Drivers License

Once you have your Ohio temporary instruction permit, you can practice driving under supervision. A licensed parent, guardian, or certified driving instructor must be with you at all times when you drive.

To get your license before you turn 18, you'll need to practice driving for at least six months to take the driving test. You must also complete the following:

• Take eight hours of in-car drivers training with a professional driving instructor. You must complete all classroom instruction and eight hours of behind-the-wheel training within six months from the date training begins.
• Complete 50 hours (with 10 hours at night) of practice driving certified by a parent.

If you've completed all of those successfully, you'll be the proud owner of an Ohio drivers license!