New Indiana Law Lowers Driving Age Starting July

A new law in Indiana will soon make it possible for teens to get behind the wheel a little sooner.

Earlier this year, Mike Braun signed House Bill 1200 into law, which includes a change that lowers the minimum age to obtain a driver’s license.

What Is Changing With Indiana Driver’s Licenses

Currently, teens in Indiana must be at least 16 years and 90 days old to get their driver’s license.

Under the new law, the minimum age will drop to 16 years old.

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There Are Still Requirements Teens Must Meet

While the age is being lowered, teens will not be able to skip the process.

To get a license at 16, drivers must still:

• Hold a valid learner’s permit for at least 180 days
• Complete an approved driver education course
• Pass the required written and driving exams
• Log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night

So while teens can get licensed sooner, the same safety requirements remain in place.

What This Means For Indiana Families

This update could impact thousands of Indiana families, especially those with teens eager to start driving.

Lowering the age means:

• Teens may be able to get licensed sooner
• Families may have more flexibility with transportation
• Parents may need to prepare earlier for driver education and supervision

Read More: You Might Be Breaking Indiana's Headlight Law

When The New Law Takes Effect

The new minimum age goes into effect on July 1, 2026.

Until then, current licensing rules remain in place.