What you need to do to renew at the BMV
To renew your Indiana driver's license at the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, you will need to visit a BMV branch in person, bring specific documents, and pay a renewal fee. The BMV is Indiana's state agency that issues and renews driver's licenses. You cannot renew by mail or online in Indiana, even if your license is not yet expired — you must go to a branch location.
The process itself is straightforward: you arrive with your documents, complete a form, have your photo taken, and pay the fee. Most visits take 30 to 45 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Some branches are busier than others, and you may be able to check wait times on the BMV website before you go.
Key Takeaways
- You must renew in person at a BMV branch — Indiana does not offer mail or online renewal for driver's licenses.
- Bring your current license, proof of identity, and proof of Indiana residency; the BMV website lists all required documents by type of renewal.
- The renewal fee depends on how long your new license will be valid — typically $20 to $30 for a standard renewal.
- You can find your nearest BMV branch and check current wait times on the official Indiana BMV website.
- If you cannot visit in person due to age, disability, or medical condition, you may be able to request a home visit through the BMV.
Documents you will need to bring
The BMV requires you to bring your current driver's license and at least two forms of identification or residency proof. One document must prove your identity (such as a passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card), and one must prove you live in Indiana (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
If your name has changed since your last license — through marriage, divorce, or legal change — bring the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. The BMV website has a full checklist organized by renewal type, so you can confirm exactly what to bring before you go. Bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip.
Renewal fees and how long your new license lasts
Indiana driver's licenses are valid for four or six years, depending on which you choose. A four-year license costs less than a six-year license. The exact fee varies slightly, so check the BMV website for the current amount. You pay at the branch when you renew.
If you are over 75 years old, your license will be valid for four years only, regardless of which option you choose. If you are under 75, you decide at the time of renewal whether you want the shorter or longer validity period.
Finding a BMV branch and what to expect when you arrive
Indiana has BMV branches throughout the state. You can find the one nearest you on the official Indiana BMV website, which also shows their hours and current wait times. Some branches are appointment-only, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check before you go so you know whether you need to book ahead.
When you arrive, you will check in, wait your turn, and then meet with a BMV staff member. They will verify your documents, ask you to confirm your information, take a new photo, and process your payment. You will receive a temporary paper license that day, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.
Renewing before your license expires
You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Many people renew early to avoid the rush near the expiration date or because they are planning a trip and want a fresh license. There is no penalty for renewing early, and your new license will straightforward have a later expiration date.
If you wait until your license has already expired, you can still renew at the BMV using the same process. However, an expired license is not valid for driving, so you should not drive while it is expired. Renewing before expiration keeps you legal on the road without interruption.
If you cannot visit a BMV branch in person
The BMV offers home visits for people who are homebound due to age, disability, or medical condition. To request a home visit, contact your local BMV branch directly and explain your situation. They will determine whether you meet the criteria and schedule a time for an officer to come to your home. You will still need to bring the same documents, and you will still pay the renewal fee.
Home visits are not available in all areas and may take longer to schedule than an in-person visit, so plan ahead if you think you will need one. Call the BMV branch in your county to ask about availability and how far in advance you need to request the visit.
What happens if you drive with an expired license
Driving with an expired license is against Indiana law. If you are stopped by police, you can be cited, and the officer may impound your vehicle. The fine and consequences depend on how long your license has been expired and whether you have other violations on your record.
Your temporary paper license from the BMV is valid while you wait for your permanent license to arrive, so you are covered during that two- to three-week window. The key is to renew before your current license expires so there is no gap in validity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online or by mail?
No. Indiana requires all driver's license renewals to happen in person at a BMV branch. You cannot renew online, by mail, or through any other method. You must visit a branch location with your documents and pay the fee in person.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
You receive a temporary paper license the day you renew at the BMV. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving during that time, so you do not have to wait to use your new license.
What if I lost my current license and need to renew?
You can still renew at the BMV, but you will need to bring the other required documents (proof of identity and Indiana residency). You cannot use your lost license as proof of identity. Bring a passport, birth certificate, or other acceptable ID instead. The BMV will issue your new license during the same visit.
Do I have to renew in the county where I live?
No. You can renew at any BMV branch in Indiana, regardless of which county you live in. However, most people renew at their nearest branch for convenience. All branches have access to the same system and can process your renewal.
What if my address has changed since my last license?
Tell the BMV staff member when you renew, and they will update your address in the system. Bring a document that proves your new Indiana address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. Your new license will show your current address.