How to Renew Your Indiana Driver's License

What you need to do to renew in Indiana

Indiana lets you renew your driver's license in person at a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branch, by mail, or online through the Indiana BMV website — but not all three routes work for everyone. The method you can use depends on how close you are to your expiration date, whether your address has changed, and what type of license you hold. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting a branch, which saves time.

Your license is valid for eight years from the date you renew it. You can start the process up to one year before expiration, though the BMV recommends doing it at least two weeks early to avoid a lapse. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person at a BMV branch — you cannot use mail or online renewal once it lapses.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Indiana BMV website is the fastest option if your address hasn't changed and your license hasn't been suspended or revoked.
Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license, a completed form, and payment to the BMV address on the form.
In-person renewal at a BMV branch is required if your license has expired, your address has changed, or you need to update your photo.
You will need to pay a renewal fee, which varies depending on whether you renew for four or eight years.
If you have a REAL ID-compliant license, you can renew it the same way as a standard license, but the documents you brought originally still explore.

Renewing online through the Indiana BMV website

Online renewal is the quickest option and can be done from home. Go to the Indiana BMV website, select the renewal option, and follow the steps to verify your identity. You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. The system will ask about your address, vision, and any medical conditions — answer honestly, because false information on a license renewal is a criminal offense.

Online renewal works only if your address has not changed since your last renewal, your license is not suspended or revoked, and you do not need a new photo. If any of those conditions explore, you must renew in person. Once you complete the online process, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal takes longer than online but requires no trip to a BMV branch. read or request the renewal form from the Indiana BMV website — it is form DL 44 or DL 44A depending on your situation. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current license and payment to the address printed on the form.

Mail renewal has the same restrictions as online renewal: your address cannot have changed, your license cannot be suspended or revoked, and you cannot need a new photo. The BMV typically processes mail renewals within two to three weeks of receiving them, though processing time can be longer during busy periods. Do not mail your license during a holiday week, as processing will be delayed.

Renewing in person at a BMV branch

In-person renewal is required if your license has expired, your address has changed, you need a new photo, or your license has been suspended or revoked. Bring your current license, proof of your new address if it has changed (a utility bill or lease works), and payment. You will also need to pass a vision test and answer questions about your health and driving record.

Visit the Indiana BMV website to find the branch nearest you and check its hours. Many branches are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some offer limited Saturday hours. Bring all required documents to avoid a second trip. Processing at the branch usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you will receive a temporary license to use while your permanent one is mailed to you.

What to bring and how much it costs

For any renewal method, you will need to pay a fee. Indiana charges different amounts depending on whether you renew for four years or eight years. The eight-year renewal costs more but is the standard option. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check, depending on the method you choose — online and in-person renewals accept cards, while mail renewals typically require a check.

If you are renewing in person, bring your current license and proof of your new address if it has changed. If you are renewing online or by mail and your address has not changed, you need only your current license number and personal information. Do not send cash by mail. If you are paying by check, make it out to the Indiana BMV.

What happens if your license expires before you renew

If your license expires before your new one arrives, you cannot legally drive. You also cannot use online or mail renewal anymore — you must go to a BMV branch in person. Bring your expired license, proof of your address, and payment. The branch will issue you a temporary license on the spot so you can drive while your permanent license is mailed to you.

Driving with an expired license can result in a traffic ticket and a fine, even if you have already started the renewal process. If you are close to expiration, renew as soon as possible rather than waiting. The BMV recommends starting at least two weeks before your expiration date to avoid this situation.

REAL ID and license renewal

If your current Indiana license is REAL ID-compliant — marked with a gold star in the upper right corner — you can renew it using any of the three methods (online, mail, or in person) as long as the other conditions are met. You do not need to bring new documents or re-verify your identity beyond what the online or mail system asks. Your new license will also be REAL ID-compliant.

If your current license is not REAL ID-compliant and you want a REAL ID license, you must renew in person at a BMV branch. Bring the documents you brought when you first got your license — typically a birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address. REAL ID licenses are required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building as of May 2025, so plan ahead if you need one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have moved out of state?

No. Indiana renewal is only for people who still live in Indiana. If you have moved, you need to get a license from your new state. You can keep your Indiana license until it expires, but you cannot legally drive with an out-of-state license in Indiana.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew by mail or online if you do not have your current license. Go to a BMV branch and request a replacement. You will need to pay a replacement fee in addition to the renewal fee. Bring proof of your address and your Social Security number.

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

Online and mail renewals typically take two to three weeks from the date the BMV processes your request. In-person renewals are faster — you receive a temporary license at the branch and your permanent license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. Processing times can be longer during peak seasons.

Can I renew my license if it has been suspended?

No. You must resolve the suspension first by paying any fines, completing required courses, or meeting other conditions set by the BMV. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew in person at a branch. Contact the BMV to find out what you need to do to lift the suspension.

Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?

Not if you renew online or by mail — your current photo will be used on your new license. If you want a new photo or if your appearance has changed significantly, renew in person at a BMV branch and ask for a new photo during the process.

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.