How to Get and Renew Your Indiana Driver's License

What you need to get an Indiana driver's license

Indiana issues driver's licenses through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). To get your first license or renew an expired one, you'll need to visit a BMV branch in person with specific documents. The state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Acceptable identity documents include a U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, or a foreign passport with an I-94 arrival/departure record. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Indiana address. You cannot use a PO box as proof of residency.

If you're renewing a license that's still valid or expired less than five years ago, you may be able to renew by mail or online without visiting a branch — but only if your address hasn't changed and you're not changing your name or gender marker. Check the BMV website to see which renewal method applies to your situation.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a BMV branch in person for your first license, and bring proof of identity, proof of Indiana residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
Indiana driver's licenses are valid for eight years for adults under 75 and four years for those 75 and older, so plan your renewal before expiration.
Some renewals can be done by mail or online if your license is still valid or expired less than five years ago and you're not changing your address or name.
The BMV charges different fees depending on whether you're getting a standard license, a Real ID-compliant license, or a commercial driver's license.
Indiana offers REAL ID-compliant licenses, which are required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting May 2025.

Standard license versus REAL ID in Indiana

Indiana offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID-compliant license. The difference matters if you plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings. Starting May 7, 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will require a REAL ID-compliant license, passport, passport card, or other approved federal ID for domestic flights.

A standard Indiana driver's license does not meet REAL ID requirements. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license, you must request it when you explore or renew. The BMV will verify your identity documents more thoroughly for REAL ID, and the license will display a gold star in the upper right corner. The fee for a REAL ID license is higher than a standard license.

If you already have a valid passport or passport card, you can use that for domestic air travel instead of upgrading to a REAL ID license. However, if you want a single form of ID that works for both driving and federal access, REAL ID is the simpler choice.

Where to go and what to bring

Find your nearest BMV branch on the Indiana BMV website. The state operates branches in most counties, and you can walk in without an appointment at most locations, though wait times vary. Some branches offer appointment scheduling through the website, which can reduce your time in line.

Bring your documents in original form — photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or residency. If you're renewing and your name or address has changed, bring documentation of the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring your current or expired license if you have one.

Bring cash or a debit/credit card, as payment methods vary by branch. The BMV website lists which payment types each branch accepts. If you're getting a REAL ID license, the fee is typically higher than a standard license, and fees vary slightly depending on how many years you're licensing for.

License validity periods and renewal timing

Indiana driver's licenses are valid for eight years if you're under 75 years old. If you're 75 or older, your license is valid for four years. The expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so you don't have to wait until the last minute.

If your license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must visit a BMV branch in person and may need to retake the written test and vision test. If your license expired less than five years ago and you meet the other conditions for mail or online renewal, you can skip the branch visit.

The BMV sends renewal reminders to the address on file, but these reminders sometimes arrive late or get lost. Check your license expiration date now and mark your calendar so you don't accidentally drive with an expired license.

Taking the written and vision tests

If you're getting your first Indiana driver's license, you must pass a written test and a vision test at the BMV branch. The written test covers Indiana traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Indiana Driver's Manual, which is available free on the BMV website as a PDF or in print at any BMV branch.

The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. You must be able to read the eye chart from a specified distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test. If you fail the vision test, the BMV will not issue a license until you pass or provide a letter from an eye doctor stating you meet the vision standard.

If you're renewing a license that's still valid or expired less than five years ago, you do not retake the written or vision tests unless the BMV has reason to believe your vision or knowledge has changed. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must retake both tests.

Commercial driver's license requirements

If you need to drive a commercial vehicle for work — such as a truck, bus, or vehicle carrying hazardous materials — you need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) instead of a standard license. Indiana CDLs require additional testing and documentation beyond a regular license.

To get a CDL, you must first hold a valid Indiana driver's license, pass a medical examination by a certified medical examiner, and pass written tests specific to the type of commercial vehicle you'll drive. You'll also need to provide your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity. Some CDL holders must also pass a skills test involving a pre-trip inspection, basic control, and an on-road driving test.

CDL fees are higher than standard license fees, and the license is valid for four years. If you're unsure whether your job requires a CDL, check with your employer or contact your local BMV branch.

Changing your name or gender marker

If you've changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, you can update your Indiana driver's license. Bring your current license and documentation of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You can do this at any BMV branch.

Indiana also allows you to change the gender marker on your driver's license. You do not need a court order or medical documentation. Bring your current license and a completed process form (available at the BMV branch or on the website). The BMV will issue a new license with your updated gender marker.

If you're changing your name or gender marker, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must visit a branch in person. The BMV will take a new photo for your updated license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Indiana license online or by mail?

You can renew by mail or online if your current license is still valid or expired less than five years ago, your address hasn't changed, and you're not changing your name or gender marker. Check the BMV website to start an online renewal or request a mail renewal form. If you don't meet these conditions, you must visit a BMV branch in person.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Visit a BMV branch to report the loss and request a replacement. Bring proof of identity and proof of residency. The BMV will issue a new license with the same number and expiration date as your original. There is a replacement fee, which is lower than the fee for a new license.

Do I need a REAL ID license to fly domestically?

Starting May 7, 2025, yes — unless you have a passport, passport card, or other approved federal ID. If you have a standard Indiana driver's license after that date, you'll need to show an alternative form of ID at airport security for domestic flights. Getting a REAL ID license now avoids this hassle.

How long does it take to get a new license at the BMV?

Wait times vary by branch and time of day. Some branches have short waits in the morning on weekdays, while others have longer waits in the afternoon or on Saturdays. The BMV website shows estimated wait times for each branch. If you book an appointment, you'll typically be seen within 15 minutes of your scheduled time.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day at most BMV branches, though you may have to wait and pay a retest fee. Study the Indiana Driver's Manual before your next attempt. If you fail multiple times, consider taking a driver education course, which some BMV branches can direct you to.

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.