How to Renew Your Driver License in Indiana

What you need to do to renew in Indiana

Indiana lets you renew your driver license by mail, online, or in person at a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branch. Which method works for you depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time is left before it expires, and whether you need to update your photo. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting a branch, but some situations require an in-person visit.

Your Indiana driver license is valid for eight years if you are between 21 and 84 years old. If you are 85 or older, your license is valid for four years. You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so you do not have to wait until the last moment.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Indiana BMV website is the fastest option if your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo.
By-mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and requires you to send in your current license along with a completed process form.
In-person renewal at a BMV branch is necessary if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need a new photo, or if you are changing your name or address.
The renewal fee in Indiana is $24 for an eight-year license if you are under 85, and $12 for a four-year license if you are 85 or older.
You will need proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and your current driver license to complete any renewal method.

Renewing online through the BMV website

Online renewal is the quickest option and can be done from home. Go to the Indiana BMV website and select the online renewal option. You will need your current driver license number, your date of birth, and your Social Security number to start. The system will verify your information against BMV records.

Online renewal works only if your license is currently valid and you do not need to change your photo. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew online. You will also need to renew in person if you want a new photo, if you are changing your name, or if you are updating your address to a new county.

After you complete the online form and pay the fee by credit or debit card, your new license will be mailed to you. Delivery typically takes one to two weeks. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

Renewing by mail

To renew by mail, you need to request an process form from the BMV or read it from their website. The form is called the process for Indiana Driver License or Identification Card. Fill it out completely, including your current address and any changes to your name or other information.

Mail your completed process along with your current driver license and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Include proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last 60 days. Do not send cash.

Processing by mail takes about two to three weeks from the time the BMV receives your materials. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided on the process. During this time, you can continue to drive using your current license.

Renewing in person at a BMV branch

Visit your local BMV branch if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need a new photo, or if you are making changes to your name or address. Bring your current driver license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

You will have your photo taken at the branch, and the BMV staff will process your renewal on the spot. You can receive a temporary paper license to drive home with, and your permanent license will be mailed to you within one to two weeks. Some branches allow you to make an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time.

Bring cash, a check, or a debit or credit card to pay the renewal fee. The BMV does not accept all payment methods at every branch, so call ahead if you want to confirm what they accept.

What documents to bring

For any renewal method, you will need to show proof of your Social Security number. Acceptable documents include your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. You will also need proof of your current address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement. The document must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and current address.

If you are renewing by mail or in person and your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring a document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are changing your address to a different county, you must renew in person.

Fees and payment methods

The renewal fee for an eight-year driver license is $24 if you are between 21 and 84 years old. If you are 85 or older, the fee is $12 for a four-year license. These fees are set by the state and do not vary by county or BMV branch.

For online renewal, you can pay by credit or debit card. For by-mail renewal, send a check or money order — do not send cash. For in-person renewal, most branches accept cash, checks, and debit or credit cards, but call your local branch to confirm what they accept.

Finding your local BMV branch and hours

The Indiana BMV website has a branch locator tool where you can search by county or city to find the nearest office. Each branch has its own hours, which may vary by day of the week. Some branches are open on Saturday, but many are not. Call ahead or check the website before you visit to avoid a wasted trip.

If you live in a rural area far from a branch, by-mail or online renewal may save you time and travel. If you must visit in person, consider going early in the day or on a weekday when branches are typically less busy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than two years?

No, you cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been expired for more than two years. You must visit a BMV branch in person. Bring all required documents, including proof of your Social Security number and current address, and be prepared to have a new photo taken.

What happens if I drive with an expired license?

Driving with an expired license is against Indiana law and can result in a traffic ticket and fine. You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so renew early to avoid this risk. If your license has already expired, renew as soon as you can through any available method.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

Online and by-mail renewals typically take one to two weeks for delivery after processing. In-person renewal is fastest — you receive a temporary paper license to drive home with, and your permanent license arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

Can I change my address when I renew my license?

You can change your address if you are staying in the same county through online or by-mail renewal. If you are moving to a different county, you must renew in person at a BMV branch. Bring proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days.

What if my name has changed since I got my current license?

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, you must renew in person at a BMV branch. Bring a document that proves the name change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree, along with all other required documents.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.