What documents to bring to the BMV

Indiana's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) requires you to bring specific documents when you renew your license in person. The exact documents depend on whether you are renewing before your current license expires, renewing after it has expired, or renewing by mail.

For a standard renewal, bring your current Indiana driver's 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, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

If your license expired more than five years ago, you will need to retake the written test and vision test, not just renew. Bring the same documents listed above, plus you may need to provide proof of lawful presence in the United States if you were not born here.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Indiana address dated within the last 60 days to any BMV branch.
  • If your name has changed, bring the certified document that changed it — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
  • Licenses that expired more than five years ago require you to retake the written and vision tests, not just renew.
  • Indiana offers mail renewal for people over 75 and for certain military members, but most people must renew in person at a BMV branch.
  • The BMV charges a fee for renewal; the amount depends on whether you choose a standard four-year or eight-year license.

When you can renew by mail instead of going to the BMV

Indiana allows mail renewal only for specific groups. If you are 75 years old or older, you can renew by mail without visiting a BMV branch. You will need to send your current license, a completed process form (Form DL 44), proof of your address, and the renewal fee to the BMV's mailing address.

Active-duty military members stationed outside Indiana can also renew by mail. You will need to include a copy of your military orders along with the other documents. The process takes longer by mail — typically four to six weeks — compared to in-person renewal, which is usually completed the same day.

If you do not fall into either of these groups, you must renew in person at a BMV branch. You cannot renew online in Indiana, even if your license is not yet expired.

How to find your nearest BMV branch and make an appointment

Indiana BMV branches are located in most counties. You can find the branch nearest you and check its hours on the official Indiana BMV website. Many branches now require appointments or operate on a first-come, first-served basis depending on location and current demand.

To make an appointment, visit the BMV website and select your preferred branch and time. If the branch does not offer online appointments, you can call ahead to ask about wait times. Some branches fill up quickly during lunch hours and late afternoon, so arriving early in the morning or mid-week often means shorter waits.

Bring all required documents with you. If you arrive without the correct documents, the BMV will not process your renewal and you will have to return another day.

The renewal fee and what it covers

Indiana charges different fees depending on the type of license you choose. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. The BMV also charges an additional fee if you want a Real ID-compliant license, which you will need to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings starting in 2025.

The BMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at most branches. Check the BMV website or call your local branch to confirm which payment methods they accept, as some smaller branches may have limited options.

Your renewal fee covers the new license itself and the processing. It does not cover any additional services like name changes or address corrections beyond what is included in a standard renewal.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked

If your Indiana license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or multiple traffic violations. You can check the status of your license on the BMV website or by calling the BMV directly.

If your license is suspended, you must resolve the underlying issue — pay the fine, resolve the child support matter, or complete a required course — before you can renew. The BMV will tell you what you need to do. Once you have resolved the issue, you can return to the BMV to renew your license.

Renewing your license before it expires versus after

Indiana allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early is useful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid a last-minute rush. The new license will have a new expiration date based on when you renew, not when your old license was set to expire.

If you let your license expire, you can still renew it as long as it has not been expired for more than five years. However, if it has been expired for more than five years, you will need to retake the written test and vision test, which takes longer and costs more. It is simpler to renew before your license expires.

Real ID compliance and what it means for your renewal

A Real ID-compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. Starting in 2025, you will need a Real ID license or a passport to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. If your current license does not have the gold star, you can request a Real ID license when you renew.

Getting a Real ID requires one additional document: proof of your date of birth (your birth certificate or passport). Bring this along with your other renewal documents if you want the Real ID version. The fee for a Real ID license is higher than a standard license, but only by a few dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

No. Indiana does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew in person at a BMV branch, by mail if you are over 75 or on active military duty, or through a BMV branch partner location in some cases. Check the BMV website for partner locations near you.

What if I lost my current license?

If you lost your license, you will need to get a replacement before you can renew. Bring your proof of Social Security number and proof of address to the BMV, and they will issue a replacement. Once you have it, you can renew at the same time or wait until closer to the expiration date.

How long does it take to renew my license?

In-person renewal at a BMV branch usually takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the branch is. You receive your new license the same day. Mail renewal takes four to six weeks. If you renew early, you avoid the rush that happens in the weeks before licenses expire.

Do I need to retake the vision test when I renew?

Yes, you will take a vision test at every renewal. You will not retake the written driving test unless your license has been expired for more than five years. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you to the BMV.

What if my address changed since my last license?

Bring proof of your new Indiana address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) when you renew. The BMV will update your address on your new license at no extra charge. You do not need to change your address separately.