How to Replace a Lost Driver's License in Indiana

You can replace a lost Indiana driver's license in person at a BMV branch, by mail, or online through the BMV's replacement service

A lost driver's license in Indiana can be replaced through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). The fastest route is visiting a BMV branch in person with proof of identity and paying the replacement fee. If you cannot get to a branch, you can request a replacement by mail or use the BMV's online service, though these take longer. Indiana does not mail licenses automatically — you must request the replacement yourself.

The process differs slightly depending on which method you choose, but all three routes require the same basic documents and the same fee. Your replacement license will have a new number and expiration date, and it will arrive as a physical card you can use when ready at a BMV branch or by mail within two to three weeks.

Key Takeaways

Visit any BMV branch with a government-issued ID and payment to replace your license the same day, or use the online service at myBMV.com if you have a valid passport or passport card.
The replacement fee is the same whether you go in person or by mail, and your new license will have a different number than your lost one.
If you lost your license and suspect identity theft, report it to the BMV and consider placing a fraud alert with the three credit bureaus.
You can drive legally while your replacement is being processed if you have a receipt or confirmation number from the BMV showing you requested it.
Indiana does not charge extra for a replacement license, but expedited processing is not available through the BMV.

Replacing your license in person at a BMV branch

Walking into a BMV branch with the right documents is the quickest way to get a replacement license. You will need a government-issued photo ID (passport, passport card, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current Indiana address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for address proof.

The replacement fee is currently $20 for a standard license and $28 for a Real ID-compliant license. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most branches. The BMV will take your photo and issue your new license on the spot, though the physical card will be mailed to your address within two to three weeks. You will receive a receipt with a confirmation number that you can use as a temporary driving permit until the card arrives.

Find your nearest BMV branch on the Indiana BMV website (in.gov/bmv). Branches have different hours, and wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the week or early in the day typically means shorter waits. You do not need an appointment at most branches, but some locations offer online scheduling through the BMV website.

Replacing your license online through myBMV

The Indiana BMV offers online replacement through myBMV.com if you have a valid U.S. passport or passport card. You will log in, verify your identity, upload a photo of your passport, and pay the replacement fee by credit or debit card. The entire process takes about 10 minutes. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within two to three weeks.

Online replacement is available only if your current address in the BMV system matches your actual address. If you have moved since your last license renewal, you will need to update your address first, which requires going to a BMV branch or using the mail-in method. You will receive a confirmation number by email that serves as proof you requested a replacement.

Replacing your license by mail

You can request a replacement license by mail by sending a completed form DL 44 (process for Indiana Driver's License or Permit), a copy of your government-issued photo ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to the BMV. Include a check or money order for the replacement fee payable to the Indiana BMV. Mail everything to the address listed on the BMV website under "Mail-In Services."

Processing takes four to six weeks from the date the BMV receives your packet. Include a return address on your envelope so the BMV can contact you if documents are missing. You can read form DL 44 from the BMV website or pick one up at any BMV branch. Keep a copy of everything you send for your records.

What to do if you suspect your lost license was used fraudulently

If you believe someone may have used your lost license to commit fraud or identity theft, contact the BMV when ready to report it. The BMV can flag your license in their system. You should also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — by contacting any one of them and asking them to notify the others. A fraud alert makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.

Request a free copy of your credit report from each bureau through annualcreditreport.com to check for accounts you did not open. If you find fraudulent accounts, dispute them directly with the creditor and with the credit bureau. Keep records of all your communications. You may also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov.

Driving legally while your replacement is being processed

You can drive legally in Indiana while waiting for your replacement license to arrive if you have proof that you requested it. If you received a receipt at a BMV branch, keep that receipt in your vehicle. If you applied online or by mail, print your confirmation email or keep the confirmation number with you. Police recognize these as valid proof that a replacement is in process.

Do not drive without this proof, as you could be cited for driving without a license. If you are stopped and cannot produce your receipt or confirmation, explain that you lost your license and show the officer your government-issued ID if you have one. The outcome depends on the officer's judgment, so carrying your proof is the safest approach.

Real ID compliance and your replacement license

When you replace your license, you can choose between a standard Indiana driver's license and a Real ID-compliant license. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings. If you do not have a Real ID license and plan to fly domestically after May 2025, you will need either a Real ID license, a passport, or a military ID.

The Real ID replacement fee is $28 instead of $20. You will need the same documents as a standard replacement, plus an original or certified copy of your birth certificate or passport. If you are unsure whether you need Real ID, the TSA website has a full list of acceptable documents for air travel. You can always upgrade to Real ID at your next renewal if you do not need it now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?

Indiana does not issue temporary paper licenses. Your receipt or confirmation number from the BMV serves as proof that you requested a replacement and is legal to carry while you drive. Keep it with you until your new license arrives.

What if my address changed since I lost my license?

You can update your address at the same time you request your replacement. At a BMV branch, bring proof of your new address along with your other documents. By mail or online, you may need to update your address first before requesting the replacement, depending on the method.

How much does a replacement license cost?

A standard replacement license costs $20, and a Real ID-compliant license costs $28. The fee is the same whether you replace it in person, by mail, or online. There are no additional charges for expedited processing, as the BMV does not offer that service.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Your replacement license is mailed directly to your address on file with the BMV. You cannot pick it up at a branch or have someone else collect it. If you are moving, update your address with the BMV before requesting your replacement so it goes to the correct location.

What if I find my original license after I request a replacement?

Contact the BMV and let them know you found it. You can cancel your replacement request to avoid paying for an unnecessary replacement. If the replacement has already been mailed, you can return it to the BMV or destroy it. Keep your original license and do not use both.

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.