Where to renew and what you'll need
You can renew your Indiana driver's license in person at any branch of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), or online through the Indiana BMV website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for almost everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed since your last renewal.
For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, you'll also need to show the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
The BMV does not require you to take a new photo or pass a vision test during a standard renewal unless your license has been expired for more than a year, or you're renewing a commercial driver's license. If you want to update your photo anyway, you can request a new one when you renew.
Key Takeaways
- Indiana driver's licenses expire every four years, and you can renew online if your license is current, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed.
- In-person renewal at any BMV branch requires your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address from the last 60 days.
- You do not need to retake a vision test or have a new photo taken unless your license has been expired for more than a year.
- The BMV charges a renewal fee that varies depending on how long you want your new license to be valid — typically four years or eight years.
Renewing online through the Indiana BMV website
The Indiana BMV online renewal system is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. You log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, review your information, pay the renewal fee with a debit or credit card, and your new license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit a branch.
Online renewal is not available if your current license is expired, if you have medical restrictions noted on your license, if your address has changed, or if you need to renew a commercial driver's license. If any of these explore to you, you must renew in person at a BMV branch.
Renewing in person at a BMV branch
Walk into any BMV branch during business hours with your documents. You'll fill out an process form (the BMV staff can help you), hand over your paperwork, and pay the renewal fee. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the branch is.
Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to update your address at the same time, tell the BMV staff before you leave — they'll make sure your new license goes to the correct location. If you want a new photo, ask the staff when you arrive; they'll take one on the spot.
You can find your nearest BMV branch and its hours on the Indiana BMV website. Some branches are busier than others, so calling ahead or checking online wait times can help you choose when to go.
Renewal fees and how long your new license lasts
Indiana offers two renewal terms: four years or eight years. The fee for a four-year renewal is lower than the fee for an eight-year renewal. Both fees are set by the state and do not vary by branch or by how you renew. The BMV website lists the current fees, which can change year to year.
When you renew, you choose which term you want. An eight-year license costs more upfront but means you won't need to renew again for eight years. A four-year license is cheaper but requires you to renew sooner. Neither choice affects your driving record or insurance.
What happens if your license is expired
If your license has been expired for more than a year, you cannot renew online — you must go to a BMV branch in person. You'll also need to pass a vision test and have a new photo taken, even if you wouldn't normally need these for a standard renewal.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Indiana, even if you're renewing. If you're stopped by police, you can show proof that you've submitted a renewal request (either online or in person), but this does not may provide you won't be cited. Renew as soon as your license expires to avoid this situation.
If your name or address has changed
If your name has changed since your last license was issued, you must renew in person and bring the document that proves the change. This can be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other legal document. The BMV staff will review it and update your record.
If only your address has changed, you can update it during an in-person renewal or by calling the BMV to request a change of address form. You cannot update your address through online renewal — if you've moved, you must go to a branch in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. Indiana allows you to renew your license up to 180 days before it expires. Renewing early does not shorten the validity of your new license — your new license will still be valid for four or eight years from the date you renew, not from the date your old one would have expired.
What if I lost my current license?
If you've lost your license, you cannot use online renewal. Go to a BMV branch in person with your proof of Social Security number and proof of address. The BMV will issue you a replacement license, which is the same as a renewal. You'll pay the replacement fee, which is typically lower than a renewal fee.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Whether you renew online or in person, your new license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. During this time, your old license is still valid. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, you can continue using your current license.
Can I renew my license by mail?
No. Indiana does not offer mail-in renewal. You must renew either online through the BMV website or in person at a BMV branch. There is no third-party option or mail-based process.
What if I have a commercial driver's license?
Commercial driver's licenses cannot be renewed online. You must go to a BMV branch in person. Bring the same documents as you would for a standard renewal, plus any medical certification documents if your commercial license has medical restrictions. The renewal process takes longer for commercial licenses because the BMV must verify additional information.