Where to renew and what you need before you start

You can renew your Indiana driver's license in person at any BMV branch, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Indiana BMV website. The fastest route depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you need a new photo, and how soon you need the renewed license in hand.

Before you go anywhere or submit anything, gather these documents: your current Indiana driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you've changed your name since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

Check the expiration date on your current license. If it expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must go to a BMV branch in person. If your license is still valid or expired within the last five years, you have options.

Key Takeaways

  • Indiana lets you renew by mail or online only if your license expired within the last five years and you don't need a new photo.
  • In-person renewal at a BMV branch takes about 30 minutes and is the only option if your license expired more than five years ago.
  • You'll need your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address dated within 60 days.
  • A renewed license costs $20 for a four-year license or $30 for an eight-year license, and you choose the term when you renew.

Renewing in person at a BMV branch

Walk into any BMV branch with your documents and a completed process form (Form DL-44, which you can fill out at home or at the branch). Bring your current license and the proof documents listed above. The staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot.

Bring a check or debit card — most branches accept both, though a few accept cash. You'll pay $20 for a four-year license or $30 for an eight-year license. The branch will give you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic license is mailed to your address. Your new license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Wait times vary by branch and time of day. Branches are usually less crowded on weekday mornings and early afternoons. You can find your nearest branch and its hours on the Indiana BMV website. No appointment is required, but some branches now offer online scheduling to reduce wait time.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is available only if your current license expired within the last five years and you don't need a new photo. You cannot use mail renewal if you want to change your address, name, or any other information on your license — those changes require an in-person visit.

read and print Form DL-44 from the Indiana BMV website, or request one by mail. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it with your current license, a check or money order for $20 (four-year) or $30 (eight-year), and a copy of your proof of address. Mail everything to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the day the BMV receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to the address on your process. During this time, your current license remains valid, so you can still drive legally. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, keep your current license with you.

Renewing online

Online renewal through the Indiana BMV website is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. You can renew online only if your license expired within the last five years, you don't need a new photo, and you have a valid email address. The process takes about 10 minutes.

Go to the Indiana BMV website, select "Renew Your License Online," and enter your license number and date of birth. Answer the questions about your current information and choose your license term (four or eight years). Pay the fee ($20 or $30) with a debit or credit card. You'll receive a confirmation email when ready.

Your new license is mailed within 7 to 10 business days. The BMV will email you a temporary digital license you can use while you wait — some employers and banks now accept this as proof of identity. Your plastic license will arrive at the address on file with your current license.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than five years

If your license expired more than five years ago, Indiana treats it as a new license process rather than a renewal. You must go to a BMV branch in person, bring all your documents, and take a new written test and driving test. This is a full licensing process, not a straightforward renewal.

Bring the same documents you would for a regular renewal, plus proof that you've completed a driver safety course if you're under 25 (this is required for new licenses in Indiana). You'll pay the same fee as a renewal ($20 or $30), but the process takes longer because of the testing requirement. Schedule an appointment through the BMV website if possible, as testing slots fill up quickly.

Changing your address, name, or other information during renewal

If you need to change anything on your license besides the expiration date — your address, name, or class of license — you must renew in person at a BMV branch. Mail and online renewal do not allow changes to your information.

Bring your current license, your proof documents (including updated proof of address if you've moved), and any documents showing a name change. The branch staff will update your information, take a new photo, and process your renewal. The cost is the same: $20 for four years or $30 for eight years.

Choosing between a four-year and eight-year license

When you renew, you choose how long your new license is valid. A four-year license costs $20 and an eight-year license costs $30. The eight-year option costs more but means you won't need to renew again for eight years. The choice is yours based on your budget and how often you want to handle renewal.

Some people choose the four-year option to avoid a large expense at once, while others prefer the eight-year option to avoid the hassle of renewing more frequently. There's no penalty for choosing either one, and you can switch to the other term the next time you renew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it's suspended or revoked?

No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the BMV before you can renew. Contact the BMV directly to find out what steps you need to take. Attempting to renew while suspended or revoked will be denied.

What if I don't have proof of my address?

You need a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address. If you don't have a utility bill or lease, a bank statement, insurance bill, or government mail works. If you have none of these, you can bring two documents that show your address but are older, or contact the BMV for other options.

Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?

Only if you renew in person at a BMV branch. Mail and online renewal use your existing photo from your current license. If you want a new photo but are renewing by mail or online, you'll need to go in person instead.

What if my new license arrives damaged or with wrong information?

Contact the BMV when ready with your temporary paper license and the damaged or incorrect plastic license. The BMV will issue a replacement at no charge if the error was their mistake. If you damaged it yourself, there may be a replacement fee.

Can someone else pick up my renewed license for me?

No. Your renewed license is mailed directly to your address on file. You cannot have it mailed elsewhere or picked up by someone else. If you're moving, renew before you move or update your address in person at a BMV branch first.