How to Take Drivers Ed in Ohio

If you're getting your drivers license in Ohio and you're under 21, you'll need to take drivers education first—even if you're over 18 and applying for the first time. The good news? You can do it online. Whether you're a teen starting out or an adult preparing to retake the road test, this guide walks you through exactly what's required.

For Teens Ages 15 to 17: Your Ohio Drivers Ed Path

Step 1: Start Online Drivers Ed

If you're at least 15 years and 5 months old, you're eligible to start drivers ed online. Here's what to expect:

BMV-Approved Course: Make sure it's approved by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
What's Included: Interactive videos, quizzes, and case studies to help you prep for your exam.
Access Anywhere: Available 24/7 on any device.

The complete course requires 24 hours of classroom instruction, which you can complete online at your own pace—most students finish in 2-4 weeks doing 20-30 minutes at a time.

Even if you feel anxious about learning to drive or worried about the final exam—don't stress. The course is built to teach you step-by-step and give you the tools you need to pass confidently.

Step 2: Get Your Ohio Temporary Permit

Once you complete the classroom portion:

Print your course certificate.
Head to the BMV and take the written permit test.
Bring required documents like proof of identity and address.
Pay the learner's permit fee.

After passing, you'll receive your temporary permit—your first big milestone.

Preparation is key for permit test success. The Ohio practice permit testOhio Practice Permit Test Driversed.com includes 100 questions based on real BMV exams, helping you avoid the common pitfall where 70% of first-time test-takers fail their initial attempt.

Step 3: Start Behind-the-Wheel Training

You must complete:

8 hours with a licensed driving instructor.
50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night) with a parent or guardian.

To apply for your license, you must:

Be at least 16 years old.
Hold your permit for at least 6 months.

There's no penalty for holding it longer, so take the time you need to feel road-ready.

Bonus: Most online courses include free practice permit tests to boost your confidence.

For First-Time Permit Seekers (Ages 16–17)

Even if you've never had a permit before, you'll still follow the same steps: complete online drivers ed, earn your permit, log your driving hours, and schedule your road test. It's never too late to start.

The complete process for getting your Ohio drivers licenseOhio Drivers Ed How To Get Drivers License Driversed.com involves several steps, but each one builds your skills and confidence systematically.

For Adults 18 and Older

For First-Time Drivers Ages 18 to 20:

As of September 30, 2025, Ohio now requires all new drivers under 21—including those aged 18 to 20—to complete a full 24-hour drivers ed course plus 8 hours of behind-the-wheel training. This applies even if you're over 18 and getting your license for the first time.

If you're 18 to 20 and applying for your first license:

Start with a BMV-approved 24-hour drivers ed course (available online).
Complete 8 hours of driving with a licensed instructor.
Practice 50 hours with a licensed adult (10 at night).

You’re not required to hold your permit for 6 months like teens under 18—but you must still complete all drivers ed requirements before scheduling your road test.

What to Do If You Fail the Road Test

If you're 18 or older and didn't pass the road test on your first try, Ohio requires you to complete an abbreviated adult training course.

Your 4-Hour Online Course Includes:

10 Modules: Covering essential driving skills.
Passing Requirements: Score at least 75% on each module quiz and final exam.

After finishing, you'll receive your certificate of completion.

The Ohio adult drivers ed courseOhio Adult Drivers Ed Driversed.com is specifically designed for adults who need additional preparation before retaking their road test, focusing on practical driving skills and common test scenarios.

What's Next:

Complete 24 hours of supervised driving.
Topics covered include:
- Parallel parking
- Night driving
- Intersections and traffic flow
- Lane changes and passing
- Freeway and maneuvering techniques
Fill out and notarize Form BMV 5789 before retaking the road test.

Preparing for Test Success

Road Test Preparation

Whether you're taking your first road test or retaking it, understanding what examiners look for can make the difference. Expert guidance on passing your driving testTrending How Pass Your Driving Test First Time Avoiding Common Mistakes Driversed.com shows that about 1 in 5 people fail their first attempt, often due to test-day nerves or missing key skills.

Ohio's Unique Maneuverability Test

Ohio includes a special maneuverability test as part of the road test. Learning how to pass the Ohio maneuverability testTrending What You Need Know Pass Ohio Maneuverability Test Driversed.com requires specific practice with cone formations and precise vehicle control. The test involves navigating through a course of cones and parking in a designated space—skills that benefit from dedicated practice.

Building Confidence and Skills

Success starts with proper preparation. Getting your temporary instruction permit in OhioOhio Drivers Ed How To Get Temporary Instruction Permit Driversed.com is your first step toward independence, but it's also where you begin building the foundation for safe driving habits.

Remember that the permit test covers Ohio traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices with 40 questions—you need to answer 30 correctly (75%) to pass. Comprehensive study with practice tests dramatically improves your chances of first-time success.

Your Next Step Starts Now

Getting your drivers license in Ohio is a journey—but you don't have to go it alone. Start your BMV-approved online course today and take the first step toward safe, confident driving.

Explore DriversEd.com's Ohio-approved programs now to get started on your path to becoming a licensed driver in the Buckeye State.