• The Indiana graduated license program seeks to reduce car crasheswrecked car image by hazel proudlove from Fotolia.com
  
  Car accidents, the leading cause of death for teenagers, claimed 153 young Indianans in 2007 alone. In 2009, Indiana joined several other states in implementing a graduated driver's license program. This means that Indiana gives different driving privileges to teen drivers based on age and other requirements. Aspiring teen drivers and parents alike should familiarize themselves with Indiana laws on the driving age.
  
  

Driver Education Permit

• An Indiana driver education permit is available to Indianans 15 and a half years of age. The teen may then enroll in a driver's education program approved by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Those who hold a driver education permit are not allowed to drive cars by themselves. They must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or driver's education instructor. Their driving chaparone must sit in the front passenger seat. If the driver fails to complete the education program, her driver education permit is automatically invalidated.
  
  

Driver's License

• To obtain an Indiana driver's license, a driver must be at least 16 and a half years old. Further, the driver must hold his learner's permit for at least 180 days. A written, vision and practical driving test are required to obtain the license. A financial responsibility form must be filled out by the minor driver's parents when applying for the license.
  
  

Restrictions

• The license of a minor is considered probationary and subject to a variety of restrictions. Minors may not drive from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m. for six months after getting licensed. After this period, minors cannot drive after 11 p.m. or before 5 a.m. Sundays through Thursdays or between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. These restrictions do not apply if the minor is driving to school, work, non-profit civil rights activity or a religious function. Minors are also expected to abide by any existing local or state curfew laws.
  Minor drivers may not use cell phones or other communication devices for any purpose other than contacting emergency services. All passengers in a car operated by a minor are expected to wear safety belts.
  Finally, minors are not allowed to drive with passengers for the first six months of having a license. Exceptions include driver education instructors, licensed Indiana drivers over the age of 25 and parents, legal guardians or step-parents over the age of 21.