Indiana teens will soon be able to celebrate their 16th birthday with a special gift — a driver’s license.
House Enrolled Act 1200, signed by Gov. Mike Braun on March 12, gives the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles authorization to issue licenses to new drivers at age 16, earlier than the previous minimum age of 16 years and 90 days. The change will go into effect on July 1, 2026.
The act also allows 16-year-olds to receive a motorcycle endorsement if they meet the necessary requirements.
“Getting a driver’s license is an important milestone for young Hoosiers and their families,” Braun said in a June 3 news release. “This commonsense change gives families more flexibility while maintaining the strong safety standards and training requirements that help keep Indiana roads safe.”
What must drivers do to obtain a license at 16?
While getting behind the wheel of a car may now come three months sooner for drivers, the requirements to obtain a license in Indiana have not changed. To get a license at 16 years old, new drivers still must do the following:
In addition to these requirements, a parent, guardian or other adult must sign an agreement of financial liability for the new driver. In doing so, the adult agrees to be jointly responsible with the teenager for any injury or damage the new driver may cause while operating a vehicle, if they are determined to be at fault. Adults signing the agreement must present documents proving identity and age.
IndyStar attempted to reach Braun’s office for comment and did not immediately receive a response.
Mia Thurow is the breaking news and criminal justice reporting intern for the Indianapolis Star. She can be reached at mthurow@gannett.com.
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This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Changes are coming to when Indiana teens can get a driver’s license. Here’s what to know about new law
Reporting by Mia Thurow, Indianapolis Star / Indianapolis Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
