First Time License Examination

Study and learn all material in the Digest of Ohio Motor Vehicle Laws .

See Related Topic - Graduated Driver Licensing

First Time Applicants must do the following:

1. Apply for a Temporary Permit Packet at the office of your local deputy registrar. The fee will be $21.00. If your current driver license has expired more than 6 months and within 2 years, the fee will be $24.00. See Driver License Fees. Take with you documentary proof of your age and social security number, (if one has ever been assigned).  See Acceptable Documents.

2. If you are under 18 years of age you must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or person having legal custody, or, if there is no parent or guardian a responsible person who is willing to assume the obligations imposed under Rule 4501:1-1-19 of the Ohio Administrative Code. The co-signer must also take documentary proof of his identification.   See Acceptable Documents.

3. If you lose any portion of these forms, you will have to purchase additional forms and begin the whole process over again.

4. Take your temporary packet to the nearest Ohio Driver's License Examination Station to take the written and vision tests. No appointment for these portions of the examination is necessary. You might call to make sure when the exam station is open for business.

5. When you appear for the examination you must:

   1. Take a vision examination and a written examination.

   2. Answer questions concerning your physical health and any medical conditions you might have. If you have a condition that might affect your driving, the examiner will explain the steps you have to take and provide you with a medical packet (form BMV 2058) which must be filled out by your doctor. See medical procedures for a Temporary Permit.

   3. After you pass the written and vision tests the examiner will validate one of your forms and you will be able to practice driving on the street–but only if you are accompanied by a licensed driver in the seat next to you.

6. You cannot drive on this packet (even with a licensed driver) until you have passed the vision and written tests.