How to Renew Your Indiana Driver's License

Renewing Your Indiana Driver's License Online, by Mail, or In Person

You can renew your Indiana driver's license through three routes: online at myBMV.com, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or in person at a BMV branch. Online renewal is fastest and available if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions. Mail renewal takes longer but works if you cannot visit a branch. In-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need to update your address, or if you have medical conditions listed on your license.

Indiana licenses expire on your birthday, four years after issue for most drivers under 75, and two years for drivers 75 and older. You can renew up to 180 days before your birthday, which means you do not have to wait until the last minute. Starting your renewal early gives you time to gather documents or schedule an appointment if you choose the in-person route.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal at myBMV.com takes about 10 minutes and costs $20 for a four-year license if you have no medical restrictions and your license is not expired.
You can renew by mail only if your license is not expired, you have no medical conditions, and you do not need to change your address or photo.
In-person renewal at a BMV branch is required if your license expired more than two years ago, if you need a new photo, or if you have medical restrictions.
Indiana does not require a vision test for online or mail renewal, but the BMV may request one if your medical history suggests you need it.
You will need your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Indiana residency for any renewal method.

Online Renewal at myBMV.com

Online renewal is the fastest option if your license is current and you have no medical restrictions. Go to myBMV.com, select "Renew Your License," and answer questions about your address, name, and any changes since your last renewal. You will upload a new photo or use your existing one. The system accepts most standard photo formats, or you can use a photo taken at a BMV branch for a small fee.

Payment is by credit or debit card. The fee is $20 for a four-year license if you are under 75, or $10 for a two-year license if you are 75 or older. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

Online renewal is not available if your license has expired, if you have medical restrictions or conditions noted on your license, or if you need to change your address. If any of these explore, use mail or in-person renewal instead.

Mail Renewal for Current Licenses

Mail renewal works only if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you do not need to update your address or photo. Request a mail renewal form at myBMV.com or call the BMV at 317-615-7293. Fill out the form, include your current license, and mail both to the address on the form along with a check or money order for $20 (four-year) or $10 (two-year).

Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the BMV receives your materials. Mail renewal is slower than online renewal but works if you prefer not to use the website or cannot visit a branch. Your new license will be mailed to the address on your current license, so if you have moved, you must use in-person renewal instead.

In-Person Renewal at a BMV Branch

Visit a BMV branch if your license expired more than two years ago, if you have medical restrictions, if you need a new photo, or if you need to change your address. Bring your current license (or expired license if it has been less than two years), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of Indiana residency. Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

You will have your photo taken at the branch unless you bring a recent photo that meets BMV standards. The fee is $20 for a four-year license (under 75) or $10 for a two-year license (75 and older). You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Your new license is printed on site and you leave with it the same day.

Wait times vary by branch and time of day. Many branches allow you to schedule an appointment through myBMV.com, which can reduce your wait. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are served first. Check the BMV website for your nearest branch location and hours.

Documents You Need for Any Renewal Method

All renewal methods require proof of your Social Security number and your current Indiana driver's license. For Social Security proof, bring an original or certified copy of your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security statement from ssa.gov. A photo of your card is not accepted.

If you are renewing in person or by mail and need to change your address, bring proof of Indiana residency dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or property tax bill in your name. A driver's license or ID card from another state is not accepted as residency proof.

If you are renewing in person and your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are renewing online or by mail, you cannot change your name; you must visit a branch in person.

Medical Restrictions and Vision Requirements

If your current license has medical restrictions or conditions noted on it, you must renew in person at a BMV branch. Restrictions might include corrective lenses required, daylight driving only, or hand controls required. The BMV may ask you to complete a medical form or provide a doctor's statement before issuing your new license.

Indiana does not require a vision test for online or mail renewal. However, the BMV may request a vision test if your medical history or age suggests one is needed. If you are renewing in person, the branch may conduct a vision screening. If you fail, you may be required to visit an eye care provider and bring a report to the BMV before your license is issued.

What Happens If Your License Expired More Than Two Years Ago

If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot use online or mail renewal. You must visit a BMV branch in person. Bring the same documents as any in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Indiana residency. You will have a new photo taken unless you bring a recent photo that meets BMV standards.

The fee is the same as a standard renewal: $20 for a four-year license (under 75) or $10 for a two-year license (75 and older). You will receive your new license on the same day. If your license expired more than five years ago, the BMV may require additional documentation or may ask you to retake the written test; call 317-615-7293 to confirm what you need before visiting a branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it is already expired?

Online and mail renewal are not available if your license is expired. You must visit a BMV branch in person. Bring your expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Indiana residency. If your license expired more than two years ago, call the BMV first to confirm what documents you need.

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

In-person renewal: you receive your license the same day. Online renewal: 7 to 10 business days by mail. Mail renewal: 2 to 3 weeks from the date the BMV receives your materials. You can continue driving on your current license until your new one arrives.

Do I need a new photo if I renew online or by mail?

For online renewal, you can use your existing photo or upload a new one. For mail renewal, your existing photo is used. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a BMV branch.

What if I changed my address and want to renew?

If you changed your address, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a BMV branch in person and bring proof of your new Indiana address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.

Can I renew my license if I have a medical condition?

If your current license has medical restrictions or conditions noted on it, you must renew in person at a BMV branch. The branch may ask for a medical form or doctor's statement. Call the BMV at 317-615-7293 to ask what documents your specific condition requires.

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.