The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles handles Car permits and driver licensing. Start with the knowledge test and vision screening, purchase your temporary instruction permit identification card, and practice under the supervision rules for your age. The Car examination covers traffic rules and signs, while the later road examination includes driving and maneuverability. Use this page to prepare the right documents and understand the training requirements before scheduling a test. First-time applicants under 21 also need the applicable driver education and supervised practice.
Last verified: November 4, 2026
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Knowledge questions | 40: 20 rules and 20 signs |
| Passing score | 75% each section: 15/20 each |
| Minimum permit age | 15½ for TIPIC |
| Permit / license fee | $26.50 operator TIPIC; license issuance varies by age and term |
| What to bring | Full legal name, date of birth, SSN if assigned, Ohio residency, citizenship/legal presence; minor cosigner with ID. Training and BMV 5791 when required. |
| Official handbook | BMV official handbook directory |
| Licensing agency | Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles |
What changed
Since September 30, 2025, Ohio’s first-time applicants ages 18–20 must also complete the required Class D training and supervised practice. Ohio Traffic Safety Office
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How many questions are on the Ohio Car permit test?
Ohio BMV lists 40 multiple-choice questions and a 75% passing standard. The testing rule requires 75% on each rules and signs section: in the 20-question sections, that means 15 correct in each. Prepare for both subjects rather than relying only on an overall total.
How old must you be, and what does the permit cost?
You can begin the Ohio TIPIC process at 15½. The BMV fee table lists $26.50 for the operator temporary permit. Bring acceptable identity and residency records; applicants under 18 need the required parent or guardian cosigner. Passing the knowledge test does not authorize driving alone.
What training do first-time applicants under 21 need?
Applicable new drivers under 21 need 24 hours of classroom or online instruction, eight hours of behind-the-wheel instruction, and 50 supervised practice hours including 10 at night. Under-18 applicants must also hold the permit for six months. The 18–20 age group follows the expanded training requirements without automatically inheriting every teen restriction.
How soon can you retake the knowledge test?
After a failed knowledge examination, wait at least 24 hours. BMV places no limit on in-person knowledge attempts, while online testing is limited to two attempts in six months. Choose the appropriate testing route and review missed rules before returning.
What should you bring to the driving test?
Bring your valid TIPIC and a vehicle in good condition. Applicants who need training and practice certification must also have the required completion record and BMV 5791 Fifty-Hour Affidavit. Ohio tests ordinary driving skills and forward-and-backward maneuverability through markers; the vehicle is inspected before testing.