COLUMBUS - Effective Dec. 15, 2008, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) and the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), divisions of the Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS), are implementing new measures to increase efficiency and security when issuing temporary driving permits, commercial driver licenses and motorcycle endorsements.

With the new procedure, customers will first visit an OSHP Driver Examination Station (DX) to take the knowledge test, rather than purchasing a temporary packet before taking the test. A temporary photo will also be taken at this time. Customers will be required to show two acceptable documents before taking the test. The acceptable documents list can be viewed online at: http://www.bmv.ohio.gov/driver_license/aid.htm.

Results of the knowledge test will be stored electronically and will be verified at a BMV Deputy Registrar (DR) before a temporary permit or endorsement is issued. Customers will be able to purchase the temporary permit from the DR only after successfully passing the knowledge test. The Digest of Motor Vehicle Laws is still available for pick up at DRs, DXs or by download on www.bmv.ohio.gov to study for the knowledge test.

"This new procedure will not only reduce paper use and increase efficiency, but also ensure that the person taking the knowledge test, skills test, and the person receiving the license are the same, and is a great example of two divisions working together to improve service and security for customers," said ODPS Director Henry Guzmán.

Passing the knowledge test does not guarantee a license, temporary instruction permit or endorsement will be issued. Acceptable documents must be presented and verified at the DR, and a corresponding photo must be taken. The new temporary permit is an all inclusive plastic document. All documents presented, and the photo taken, at the OSHP DX are to establish a testing record only.

Customers should note that beginning with the statewide implementation date, Monday, Dec. 15, 2008, they will not be able to purchase temporary packets from DRs until they have passed the knowledge test at the DX. DX stations are closed on Mondays, making Tuesday, Dec. 16, the first day knowledge tests will be available at DX locations.

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. 


Take your social security card and origingal birth certficate 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.