How it Works

We know the process of getting your Driver’s License can seem complicated.  That’s why we’ve created an easy-to-use checklist that spells out the process step-by-step in plain English. We’ve also created a flowchart that visually walks you through the process. Click the buttons below to download a printable copy that also has clickable references in the checklist. For your convenience we’ve also provided the checklist below.

Step 1

Enroll in Driver’s Ed at Advance Driving School

Step 2

Complete the Online Course

This is included in our Basic, Premium, & Ultimate packages. The State of Indiana requires students to spend at least 30-hours on this course and have it 100% complete. While not required to be completed before obtaining your Learner’s Permit, it’s designed to help teach the rules of the road and enable students to pass the written test to obtain their Learner’s Permit. You have to be at least 15 years old before you can start the Online Course.

Step 3

Take Written Test at the BMV to obtain your Learner’s Permit

Normally, there is no need to make a reservation. You just have to show up. You have to be at least 15 years old. If you are 15, you will also need the CDE Form (Certificate of Drivers Education Enrollment) that you can download and print from the Account Info page of your online account. Be sure to double-check all of the requirements here before you go to a BMV branch location.

Step 4

Practice Driving with Parent, Guardian, or Adult

Be sure to start logging your hours as all students are required to have a minimum of 50 hours of driving practice (10 hours after sunset). We also recommend having at least 10 hours of practice prior to starting to drive with an ADS instructor in order to maximize the 6-hrs of driving lessons. Otherwise, there could be insufficient time to address all of the skills necessary to be a competent and safe driver.

Step 5

Notify ADS that you are ready to drive with an instructor

Step 6

Complete 6-hrs of driving lesson with an ADS instructor

The state of Indiana only allows us to drive with you for two hours per day. You’ll coordinate the schedule with your assigned instructor. You’ll drive one of our vehicles and we can pick you up at home, school or work if it’s in Floyd or Clark County. We serve other counties but will need your assistance in establishing a convenient rendezvous point for each lesson that is within Floyd or Clark County. Be sure to bring your Learner’s Permit with you every time you drive.

The state of Indiana only allows us to drive with you for two hours per day. You’ll coordinate the schedule with your assigned instructor. You’ll drive one of our vehicles and we can pick you up at home, school or work if it’s in Floyd or Clark County. We serve other counties but will need your assistance in establishing a convenient rendezvous point for each lesson that is within Floyd or Clark County. Be sure to bring your Learner’s Permit with you every time you drive.

Step 7

Complete 50+ hours of practice driving

You’ll also need to fill out this log to track your hours when you drive, and take it with you when you get your Driver’s License at the BMV.

Step 8

Schedule and take the Driving Skills Test with ADS

You can schedule your test by filling out a form on our website. Here’s the link to that form. Just a reminder that you must have completed both the online course and the 6-hrs of driving lessons before we are allowed to administer a test. Your test cannot be on the same day as your final driving lesson. And don’t forget to bring your Learner’s Permit with you.

Step 9

Get your certificate of completion

If you take the Driving Skills Test with us, you will get this form handed to you at the end of the test. If you are taking your Driving Skills Test at the BMV, contact us, and we can email you the form. You can send us a message on our contact page

Step 10

Go to the BMV to get your Driver’s License

Being enrolled in Driver’s Ed enables you to get your Driver’s License early – when you are 16 years and 90 days old. You’ll need your Certificate of Completion from both the online course and your driving lessons. You will also need your 50-hr driving log. If you are taking the Driving Skills Test at the BMV, you will need to make an appointment. Be sure to double-check all of the requirements on the BMV website before you go to a BMV branch location.