Navigating Ohio’s driver education system can be complex, especially with recent updates and ongoing discussions about accessibility and affordability. This guide aims to provide a clear, updated roadmap for teens and their families across Ohio to understand the current requirements and considerations for obtaining a driver’s license in 2025.
Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Obtain a Temporary Permit
To begin the journey toward a driver’s license, teens must first secure a temporary license. Here’s what you need to know:
Age Requirement: Must be at least 15 years and 6 months old.
Application Process:
Visit a local Bureau of Motor Vehicles office
Provide proof of:
Legal name
Date of birth
Social Security Number (if assigned)
U.S. citizenship or legal presence
Ohio residency
Pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test.
Pay the required fee.
Validity: The temporary permit is valid for one year. If it expires, the applicant must retake the knowledge test and repay the fee.
Step 2: Complete Driver Education Courses
Ohio mandates comprehensive driver education for teens under 18, which includes:
Classroom Instruction: 24 hours, which can be completed in-person or online through BMV-approved programs.
Behind-the-Wheel Training: 8 hours with a licensed instructor.
Supervised Driving: An additional 50 hours of driving practice with a parent or guardian, including 10 hours at night.
Timeframe: All driver education components must be completed within six months.
Upon completion, students receive a Driver Education Certificate, which is required to schedule the driving skills test.
Step 3: Advance to a Probationary Driver’s License
After fulfilling the education and practice requirements, teens can apply for a probationary license:
Eligibility:
Must be at least 16 years old.
Held the temporary license for a minimum of six months.
Completed all driver education and supervised driving requirements.
Testing:
Schedule and pass the driving and maneuverability tests at a BMV examination station.
Provide the Driver Education Certificate and a notarized 50-Hour Affidavit.
Pay the applicable fees.
Post-Test: Upon passing, visit a deputy registrar license agency within 60 days to obtain the probationary license.