Where to renew and what you'll need

In Indiana, you renew your driver license at an Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branch. You can walk in without an appointment, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Some branches offer appointment scheduling through the BMV website, which can reduce your wait.

Before you go, gather these documents: your current driver license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current Indiana address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a document showing the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You do not need to pass a written test or vision test to renew by mail or online, but if you renew in person at a BMV branch, you will take a vision screening. The fee for a standard four-year license is $28.50; an eight-year license costs $56.50.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew at any Indiana BMV branch in person, by mail, or online through the BMV website if you meet the requirements.
  • In-person renewal requires your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
  • Mail and online renewal are faster than in-person if your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations or medical suspensions.
  • A standard four-year license costs $28.50; an eight-year license costs $56.50.
  • Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you renew by mail or online.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is an option if your license is not expired, you have no active medical suspensions, and you have not had certain violations in the past five years (such as a DUI, reckless driving, or habitual traffic violation). You cannot renew by mail if you need to update your photo or if your license was suspended or revoked.

To renew by mail, contact the BMV at 317-615-7293 or visit the BMV website to request a renewal form. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail everything to the address on the form. The BMV will process your renewal and mail your new license to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait.

Renewing online

Online renewal through the BMV website is the fastest option if you meet the same requirements as mail renewal: your license must not be expired, you must have no active medical suspensions, and you must have no disqualifying violations in the past five years. You also cannot renew online if you need a new photo.

Go to the BMV website, select "Renew Your License," and follow the steps. You will enter your license number, date of birth, and Social Security number to verify your identity. Pay the renewal fee with a debit or credit card. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, and you can drive on your current license until it arrives.

Renewing in person at a BMV branch

If you cannot renew by mail or online, or if you prefer to renew in person, visit any Indiana BMV branch. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. You will complete an process form at the branch, take a vision screening, and have your photo taken for your new license.

Processing times at BMV branches vary. Some branches issue your new license on the spot; others mail it to you within 7 to 10 business days. Call ahead or check the BMV website to find the branch nearest you and learn its current wait time.

What happens if your license has expired

If your Indiana driver license has been expired for more than six months, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must renew in person at a BMV branch. Bring the same documents you would for any in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.

If your license expired fewer than six months ago, you may still be able to renew by mail or online, depending on the reason it expired. Contact the BMV at 317-615-7293 to confirm before you attempt an online or mail renewal.

Renewing before your license expires

You can renew your Indiana driver license up to 180 days before it expires. Renewing early does not extend your expiration date—your new license will expire four or eight years from your current expiration date, not from the date you renew. This means if you renew six months early, your new license will expire six months sooner than if you had waited.

Some people renew early to update their photo or address, or to avoid a rush near their expiration date. If you renew early, plan ahead so your new license arrives before your current one expires.

Updating your address or photo

If you need to update your address or photo, you must renew in person at a BMV branch. You cannot update your photo by mail or online. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your new address if you are moving. The fee is the same as a standard renewal: $28.50 for a four-year license or $56.50 for an eight-year license.

When you renew in person to update your photo, the BMV will take a new photo at the branch as part of the renewal process. If you are updating your address only, bring proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it has been suspended or revoked?

No. You must contact the BMV or the court that issued the suspension or revocation to resolve the issue before you can renew. Call the BMV at 317-615-7293 to learn what you need to do.

How long does it take to get my new license if I renew online or by mail?

Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait. If you need your license sooner, renew in person at a BMV branch.

What if I move to a different state before my renewal arrives?

Contact the BMV when ready at 317-615-7293 to update your mailing address or cancel your renewal. If your license arrives after you have moved, you can forward it to your new address or contact the BMV to arrange a replacement.

Do I need a new photo every time I renew?

No. You only need a new photo if you renew in person at a BMV branch. If you renew by mail or online, your photo from your current license will be used on your new license.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

You can use a W-2, 1099, or other document showing your Social Security number instead. Bring whatever proof of your Social Security number you have available when you renew.