How to Get Your Ohio Permit License

Apply for your TIPIC

Available starting at 15 years, 6 months old. Pass the 40-question knowledge test (at least 75% correct) and a vision screening. A parent or legal guardian must be present to sign and show their own valid ID.

• Parent/guardian ID and signature

Complete driver education

24 hours of classroom or online instruction plus 8 hours of driving time at a licensed driver training school.

• Driver education completion certificate

Log 50 hours of supervised driving

At least 10 hours must be at night (between a half hour after sunset and a half hour before sunrise), supervised by an eligible adult (parent, guardian, custodian, or an adult 21+ acting in that role). Record the sessions on the BMV 5791 Fifty-Hour Affidavit.

• BMV 5791 Fifty-Hour Affidavit

Hold the TIPIC at least 6 months

Drivers under 18 must hold the temporary permit for at least 6 months before the skills test, alongside the 50 logged hours.

Take the driving and skills test

Bring your TIPIC, a vehicle in good condition, and your driver education certificate.

Obtain your probationary license

After passing, visit a deputy registrar license agency within 60 days to receive your probationary driver license.

Pass the knowledge test and vision screening

40 questions, at least 75% correct to pass, to receive your temporary permit.

Complete driver education

24 hours of driver's education is still required at this age, unlike most other states — this is the main requirement that doesn't disappear at 18 in Ohio.

Take the driving and skills test whenever you're ready

There's no mandatory 6-month wait or logged-hours affidavit required for adults, unlike teen applicants.

Receive your full license

If you fail your first road test attempt, Ohio requires completing an Abbreviated Adult Driver Training Course before you can retry.