How to Get Your Driver's License in Ohio

Last verified: 2026-03

Here is how to get your driver's license in Ohio. Ohio uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 17.

GDL Stages in Ohio

1

Temporary Permit

Age 15.5+ 6 months minimum

Requirements

  • Pass written knowledge test
  • Pass vision screening
  • Parental consent if under 18

Restrictions

  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
2

Probationary License

Age 16+ 12 months minimum

Requirements

  • Hold temporary permit for at least 6 months
  • Complete 50 hours supervised driving including 10 at night
  • Pass road skills test

Restrictions

  • No driving between midnight and 6 a.m. for first 12 months
  • No more than 1 non-family passenger for first 12 months
3

Full Unrestricted License

Age 17+

Requirements

  • Hold probationary license for at least 12 months
  • No traffic offenses for 12 months

Restricted License Rules

  • No driving between midnight and 6 a.m. for the first 12 months of the probationary license unless for work, school, or an emergency.
  • Only 1 non-family passenger is allowed during the first 12 months.

How restrictions lift: Restrictions lift after 12 months of offense-free probationary driving or at age 18.

Road Test Overview

What Is Tested

  • Vehicle control
  • Turning and lane changes
  • Parking
  • Obeying traffic signals and signs
  • Speed management
  • Yielding right of way

Adult Licensing Pathway

If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older may apply for a full license without going through the graduated licensing stages.

Ohio-Specific Information

Ohio uses a 12-month probationary period with both night and passenger restrictions, and requires a completely clean record for the full 12 months before upgrading. Any violation during the probationary period can extend the restricted phase.

Frequently Asked Questions

You must be at least 17 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Ohio.

Ohio uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Temporary Permit, Probationary License, Full Unrestricted License.

  • No driving between midnight and 6 a.m. for the first 12 months of the probationary license unless for work, school, or an emergency.
  • Only 1 non-family passenger is allowed during the first 12 months.

Adults age 18 and older in Ohio can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older may apply for a full license without going through the graduated licensing stages.

Need your permit first?

Start with the learner's permit before your full license.

Ohio learner's permit guide

Check drivers ed requirements

Find out if drivers ed is required in Ohio.

Ohio drivers ed requirements

Prefer to learn online?

Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.

View Online Courses

This information is based on Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) website for the most current information.