BMV No Longer Requires Written Exams for New Residents

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles is pleased to remind new Hoosiers about a law making their move to Indiana a little easier. Effective July 1, 2019 there is no longer a requirement for individuals moving to Indiana from another state who hold a valid driver’s license in that state to complete a written driving test (knowledge exam). The only test individuals are now required to pass is a vision screen.

All new residents are required to provide documents proving their identity, Social Security number, lawful status in the U.S., and Indiana residency. Detailed information pertaining to Real ID and the documents required to upgrade can be found at REALID.in.gov.

“Working with the legislature to make things easier for all Hoosiers and Indiana businesses is inherent in our mission. We want new residents to feel welcome and this is one small change we hope will make the transition easier,” stated BMV Commissioner Peter L. Lacy. “This is one of the positive changes that came out of the 2019 legislative session and we are excited it is already making an impact.”

For many years, local businesses have noted one major complaint from new Hoosiers is the requirement to take a knowledge exam. The point was reinforced in late 2018 by Bob Stutz, CEO Marketing Cloud & Chief Analytics Officer, Salesforce. In response to this change, Mr. Stutz said, “this is a great step forward and will help recruit technology workers to Indiana.”

An additional impactful change from the 2019 legislative session is giving Disabled Hoosier Veterans the option to apply for a newly created gold placard. Previously when applying for a Disabled Hoosier Veteran plate these individuals did not have the option to get a specially identified placard. Now they can apply for a plate, placard, or both.