You can replace a lost Indiana driver's license in person at a BMV branch or by mail, and the process takes about two weeks if you go in person

Indiana's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) handles lost license replacements through two main routes: an in-person visit to a BMV branch office, or a mail-in request if you meet specific conditions. The in-person route is faster — you can walk out with a temporary license the same day and receive your permanent card within one to two weeks. The mail route takes longer but works if you cannot visit a branch and your license has not expired by more than five years.

You will need to bring proof of identity and proof of residency. A passport, birth certificate, or military ID works for identity. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement with your current address. If your address on the lost license matches your current address, you may not need separate residency proof — ask the BMV clerk when you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person replacement at any BMV branch takes about 30 minutes and costs between $15 and $20 depending on your license type.
  • You must bring a government-issued ID (passport, birth certificate, or military ID) and proof of your current address to replace a lost license.
  • The mail-in route works only if your license expired within the last five years and you include a completed process form and payment.
  • You receive a temporary paper license when ready at the BMV and the permanent card arrives by mail within one to two weeks.
  • If you need to drive before your permanent license arrives, the temporary license is valid for 30 days and accepted by police and insurance companies.

In-person replacement at a BMV branch

Walk into any BMV branch with your proof of identity and residency, and tell the clerk you need to replace a lost license. You will fill out form DL-44 (process for Indiana Driver's License or Identification Card) on a tablet or paper at the counter. The clerk will take your photo, verify your information against the BMV database, and process the replacement on the spot.

The fee is $15 for a standard license or $20 for a Real ID-compliant license (the kind required for federal building access and domestic flights after May 2025). You can pay by cash, card, or check. Before you leave, the clerk will hand you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

BMV branches are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and some locations have Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment at most branches, but wait times vary. Check the BMV website to find the branch nearest you and see current wait times before you go.

Mail-in replacement if you cannot visit a branch

You can request a replacement by mail if your license expired within the last five years. read or print form DL-44 from the BMV website, fill it out completely, and mail it with a check or money order for $15 (standard) or $20 (Real ID) to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your proof of identity and proof of residency.

Processing takes four to six weeks from the date the BMV receives your envelope. There is no way to track your process by mail, so keep a copy of everything you send. If you do not receive your license within eight weeks, call the BMV customer service line at 317-615-7293 to check the status.

The mail route is slower and riskier — if the BMV loses your envelope or rejects it for a missing document, you will not know for weeks. Use this route only if you cannot visit a branch in person.

What to do if your license was stolen or used fraudulently

If someone stole your license or you suspect it has been used fraudulently, report it to the BMV and to local police. Call the BMV at 317-615-7293 and tell them your license was stolen. They will flag it in the system so it cannot be used to rent a car, open a bank account, or commit other fraud in your name.

File a police report with your local police department or sheriff's office. You do not need to do this in person — many departments accept reports by phone or online. Provide the report number to the BMV when you call, and keep a copy for your records. Then proceed with the replacement process as described above.

Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) if you are concerned about identity theft. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts. A credit freeze blocks access to your credit report entirely. Both are free and take about 15 minutes to set up online.

Real ID versus standard license: which one to replace

When you replace your license, you can choose between a standard Indiana driver's license or a Real ID-compliant license. The Real ID costs $5 more ($20 instead of $15) and requires one additional document: a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return showing your full name and Social Security number.

Real ID licenses are required for federal building access (courthouses, federal offices) and domestic air travel after May 7, 2025. If you fly domestically or enter federal buildings, get the Real ID version. If you do neither and do not plan to, the standard license is sufficient and cheaper. You can always upgrade to Real ID later when your license expires.

Temporary license validity and what it covers

The temporary paper license you receive at the BMV is valid for 30 days and is accepted by police, insurance companies, and employers as proof of a valid license. You can drive legally with it, and your insurance will cover you if you are in an accident. Some rental car companies will not accept a temporary license, so call ahead if you plan to rent.

Do not laminate the temporary license or write on it. Keep it in your wallet and treat it as you would your permanent license. If you lose the temporary before your permanent card arrives, return to the BMV with your proof of identity and they will issue a replacement temporary at no charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to replace a lost Indiana driver's license?

A standard replacement costs $15 and a Real ID replacement costs $20. These are one-time fees paid at the time of replacement. There are no additional fees if you choose mail-in versus in-person.

Can I use my temporary license to fly or enter federal buildings?

A temporary standard license is not accepted for federal building access or domestic air travel. If you need to fly or enter a federal building before your permanent card arrives, you will need a passport or other federal ID. A temporary Real ID license is accepted for these purposes.

What if I moved and my address on the lost license is outdated?

Bring proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement) to the BMV. The clerk will update your address in the system and print it on your new license. If you are replacing by mail, include the proof of residency with your process.

How do I check if my replacement license is on the way?

If you received a temporary license in person, your permanent card should arrive within one to two weeks. There is no tracking system for in-person replacements. If you applied by mail, call the BMV at 317-615-7293 after eight weeks if you have not received it.

Can I replace my license if it expired more than five years ago?

No, the mail-in route requires your license to have expired within five years. If it expired longer ago, you must visit a BMV branch in person. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The process is the same as a lost license replacement.