Knowledge Exam

You don't need to schedule an appointment for a knowledge exam. But, you MUST arrive at the branch at least 30 minutes before it closes to take the computer-based knowledge exam that day.

Need to study a bit more before you take the exam?

The Driver’s Manual is available online and can be reviewed by chapter.

If you are an Indiana resident and apply for a driver’s license, you most likely have already passed your knowledge exam. However, there are situations where you may need to take another knowledge exam, such as:

• You are applying for a learner’s permit
• You are renewing your learner’s permit
• You are renewing your driver’s license and have six or more points on your driver record
• You recently moved to Indiana from another country and are applying for a driver’s license
• Your driver’s license has been expired for more than 180 days
• You wish to add endorsements to your driver’s license or commercial driver’s license

What to Expect in the Exam

Knowledge Exam Video Resource Library

Take the Exam in a Foreign Language

What to Expect in the Exam

The knowledge exam is based on information contained in the Indiana Driver's Manual. To pass the knowledge exam, you must demonstrate a basic understanding of Indiana traffic laws and safe driving techniques. The exam include multiple choice questions divided into two sections concerning traffic maneuvers and knowledge of types of traffic signs. Eighty percent or higher correct responses on each component must be achieved to pass the exam.

If you've passed the knowledge exam, your results are valid for 180 days. If you fail a knowledge exam you must wait until the next business day before taking another knowledge exam. If you fail a driving skills exam, you must wait 7 days before taking another driving skills exam. If you fail three driving skills exams while holding a learner’s permit, you must wait two months following the date of the last failed skills exam before attempting another skills exam. You will be required to renew your learner’s permit if it expires before you are eligible for additional driving skills exams.

Knowledge Exam Video Resource Library

Looking for a little extra study help before you take the knowledge exam? The BMV has created a library of videos on various chapters from the Driver's Manual. You can watch them below.

Knowledge Exam Test Taking Tips Video

Knowledge Exam Study Guide for Signs

Knowledge Exam Study Guide for Traffic (Part 1)

Knowledge Exam Study Guide for Traffic (Part 2)

Taking the Knowledge Exam in a Foreign Language

The Indiana BMV allows an applicant for a driver’s license to use a foreign language interpreter to interpret the knowledge exam if the applicant speaks a language not already offered by the BMV.

Spoken language interpreters are not available if the knowledge exam is already offered in the requested language.

The BMV currently offers the knowledge exam in the following languages:

How to Request the Use of an Interpreter for a Knowledge Exam

To request a foreign language interpreter, please schedule an appointment online.

• Make interpreter appointments online from your mobile device or computer.
• Interpreter appointments are for individuals that need to use an interpreter to complete an exam because the BMV does not have the knowledge examination translated into a language.
• Please note: BMV does not provide applicants with a non-English language interpreter; this service must be arranged by the applicant.
• Applicant must inform their interpreter that they will be required to sign an affidavit stating that they will only aid with translation of the knowledge examination.
• Only one interpreter may be used per applicant.
• An interpreter can only assist one individual during any single appointment.

American Sign Language (ASL)

• Interpreter appointments are not intended for ASL exams.
• American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters are not necessary for a knowledge exam as it is translated by a certified, peer reviewed ASL translator. Customers that still require an ASL translator for other services may call the BMV’s Contact Center at 888-692-6841 to set up a visit.

If you do not have a credential with the BMV, you must visit a branch to get a record created. Ensure you have the necessary documents outlined here before visiting a branch.

Please note: only one interpreter allowed per customer.

Still Have Questions?

Send us an email to get more information on the knowledge exam.