Big Changes to Ohio Driver’s License Requirements for Ages 18–20: Here’s What You Need to Know
If you’re planning to get your driver’s license in Ohio and you’re between 18 and 20 years old, the process is changing in a big way. Beginning September 30, 2025, Ohio will require first-time drivers under 21 to complete formal driver education before they can take the road test. These Ohio driver’s license changes are designed to improve road safety and close a long-standing gap in adult driver training.
Overview of Ohio Driver’s License Changes Effective September 30, 2025
For years, Ohio allowed most adults (18+) to skip Driver Education entirely. Once someone turned 18, they could go straight to the road test without completing a full training program. The only time Driver Education became mandatory was after failing the test, at which point an Abbreviated Adult Course was required to become eligible for a test. Under the new law, Ohio residents under 21 applying for their first driver’s license must complete the same training requirements that have long applied to 16- and 17-year-old drivers.
This means that taking a formal Driver’s Ed course, supervised practice, and documented driving experience are now mandatory for drivers 18 – 20 years of age.
Ohio Driver’s License Requirements Over 18 (Ages 18–20)
As of September 2025, Ohio requires all first-time drivers ages 18–20 to complete Driver Training before taking the road test. To qualify for a first-time Ohio driver’s license, you must complete the following:
- Class D Driver Training Program, which includes:
- 24 hours of classroom or online driver education through an Ohio BMV–approved provider
- 8 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a certified driving instructor
- 50 hours of supervised driving practice, including:
- At least 10 hours of nighttime driving
- Supervision by a licensed driver age 21 or older
- Completion of the BMV 5791 Fifty-Hour Affidavit, signed by the supervising adult and notarized
Why Ohio Updated Its Driver’s License Requirements
Ohio made these changes with safety in mind. State officials identified that many serious crashes involving young drivers were linked to a lack of formal training. By allowing adults to bypass driver education entirely, Ohio was unintentionally putting underprepared drivers on the road.
Requiring consistent training for all drivers under 21 ensures that new drivers receive proper instruction before driving independently. The goal isn’t to make licensing harder, but to make Ohio roads safer for everyone.
Get Started with All Star Driver Education!
Driver education is now a required part of the licensing process in Ohio, making it more important than ever to choose a trusted, BMV-approved driving school. All Star Driver Education is one of the largest driving schools in the Midwest, known for its engaging proprietary curriculum, state-of-the-art training fleet, and experienced instructors who help students build real confidence behind the wheel.
Choose from a variety of options, including online courses, in-person classroom instruction, and flexible behind-the-wheel training with certified instructors.
