How to Renew Your Indiana Driver's License

Where to renew and what you'll need

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) lets you renew your driver's license in three ways: online, by mail, or in person at a BMV branch. Which route you can use depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time is left before it expires, and whether you need a new photo.

If your license expires within the next six months and you have no address changes or corrections to make, you can renew online through the BMV website without visiting a branch. If you prefer mail or need an in-person appointment, you'll submit your renewal form (Form DL-44) along with proof of your current address. In-person renewals at a BMV branch typically take 15 to 30 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

You'll need 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 address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you're renewing in person and want a new photo, bring a valid photo ID. If you're renewing by mail, you won't get a new photo unless you request one and visit a branch.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the BMV website is the fastest option if your license is still valid and expires within six months, with no address changes needed.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the BMV receives your form, so send it at least four weeks before your expiration date.
In-person renewal at a BMV branch gives you a new photo and license on the spot, but requires scheduling an appointment or arriving early to avoid long waits.
Your renewal fee is $24 for a four-year license or $36 for an eight-year license, and you can pay by check, money order, or card depending on your renewal method.
If your license is expired or will expire in less than six months, you cannot renew online and must use mail or in-person renewal instead.

Online renewal through the BMV website

Online renewal is the quickest path if you meet the requirements. You can renew online only if your current license is still valid (not expired), it will not expire for at least six months, you have no address changes, and you do not need a new photo. Go to the BMV's online renewal portal, enter your driver's license number and date of birth, and follow the prompts to confirm your information and pay the renewal fee by debit or credit card.

Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need to change your address, add a Real ID designation, or get a new photo, you cannot use online renewal and must renew by mail or in person instead.

Mail renewal and what to send

To renew by mail, read Form DL-44 from the BMV website or pick one up at any BMV branch. Fill out the form completely, including your name, current address, and license number. Attach a copy of your proof of address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days) and your proof of Social Security number. Write a check or money order for the renewal fee ($24 for four years or $36 for eight years) made payable to "Indiana BMV."

Mail your completed form, documents, and payment to the address listed on the form. The BMV typically processes mail renewals within two to three weeks of receiving them, so send your packet at least four weeks before your license expires. Keep a copy of everything you send. If you do not receive your new license within four weeks of mailing, contact the BMV to confirm they received your form.

Mail renewal does not include a new photo. Your new license will show the same photo as your current one. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a BMV branch.

In-person renewal at a BMV branch

Renewing in person at a BMV branch takes 15 to 30 minutes on average, though wait times depend on how busy the branch is and what time of day you visit. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and a valid photo ID if you want a new photo taken. You can pay the renewal fee by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most branches.

The BMV recommends scheduling an appointment online before you visit. Go to the BMV website, select your nearest branch, and book a time slot. If you arrive without an appointment, you can still renew, but you may wait longer. Branches are typically less crowded early in the morning on weekdays and during mid-day hours on Tuesdays through Thursdays.

When you renew in person, you'll get your new license on the spot. Your new photo will be taken at the branch, and you'll receive your license before you leave. This is the only renewal method that gives you an when ready license and a new photo.

Renewal fees and payment methods

Indiana charges $24 for a four-year license or $36 for an eight-year license. The fee is the same regardless of which renewal method you choose. When you renew online, you pay by debit or credit card. When you renew by mail, you send a check or money order. When you renew in person, you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card, depending on the branch.

Some BMV branches accept payment by card only, so call ahead if you plan to pay by cash or check. If you are renewing a Real ID-compliant license, the fee remains the same — there is no extra charge for Real ID renewal.

What happens if your license is expired or expiring soon

If your license has already expired or will expire in less than six months, you cannot renew online. You must renew by mail or in person. If your license expired more than six months ago, the BMV may require you to take a written test and vision test in addition to renewing, so contact the BMV or visit a branch to confirm what you need to do.

If you are driving with an expired license, you are breaking Indiana law. Even if you have mailed your renewal form or scheduled an in-person appointment, you should not drive until your new license arrives or is issued. If you are stopped by police, an expired license can result in a ticket or other penalties.

Address changes and other updates during renewal

If you need to change your address, you cannot renew online. You must renew by mail or in person. When you renew in person, tell the BMV staff about your address change, and they will update your record and print your new address on your new license. When you renew by mail, write your new address on Form DL-44 and include proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days).

If you need to correct your name, date of birth, or other personal information on your license, you must renew in person. Bring documents that support the correction (a birth certificate for a name change, for example) and explain the error to the BMV staff. They will verify the correction and update your license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it's been expired for more than a year?

If your license has been expired for more than six months, you may need to retake the written test and vision test in addition to renewing. Contact the BMV or visit a branch to find out what you need to do before you renew. Do not drive with an expired license while you are figuring this out.

How long does it take to get my license after I renew online?

Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your online renewal. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the BMV to check the status.

What if I move before my renewed license arrives?

If you renew by mail or online and then move, contact the BMV as soon as possible to update your address. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file at the time of renewal. If you have already moved, the BMV may be able to forward it or reissue it to your new address.

Do I need a Real ID to renew my license?

Real ID is optional in Indiana. When you renew, you can choose to add Real ID compliance to your license or keep a standard license. Real ID costs the same as a standard license renewal and requires additional documents (a birth certificate and proof of address). Ask the BMV staff about Real ID requirements if you are renewing in person.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must renew your license yourself, either online, by mail, or in person. A family member or representative cannot renew it on your behalf. If you are unable to visit a BMV branch, renewing by mail or online are your options.

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.