How to Get and Renew Your Indiana Driver's License

What You Need to Know About Indiana Driver's Licenses

Indiana issues driver's licenses through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), which operates branch offices across the state. You can get a standard license, a Real ID-compliant license, or a non-driver ID card depending on your needs. The process differs based on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged card.

Indiana licenses are valid for four years for drivers under 75 years old, and two years for drivers 75 and older. Real ID licenses cost slightly more but meet federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings without a passport. You can renew your license in person at any BMV branch, by mail for certain renewals, or online through the BMV website if you meet specific conditions.

Key Takeaways

Indiana driver's licenses are issued by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and are valid for four years (two years if you are 75 or older).
You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to get a new license or renew an existing one.
Real ID licenses cost more but are required for domestic air travel and federal building access starting May 2025.
You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have not changed your address, and you do not need to update your photo.
BMV branch offices are located throughout Indiana, and you can find your nearest location and check wait times on the BMV website.

Documents You Will Need for a New License

Indiana requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. For proof of identity, bring an original or certified birth certificate, a valid passport, a military ID, or a previous Indiana license. A photocopy or certified copy is acceptable for birth certificates.

Proof of residency must show your current Indiana address and be dated within 30 days of your process. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a letter from your employer on company letterhead. If you cannot provide a document in your name, you can bring a document in a spouse's or parent's name along with a marriage certificate or birth certificate showing the relationship.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form if you have one. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get an Indiana license, but you will need to complete additional paperwork and bring extra documents.

Getting Your First Indiana License

If you are getting your first license, you must visit a BMV branch in person. You cannot renew online or by mail. Bring all required documents listed above, plus a completed process for Driving Privileges form (Form DL-43), which you can read from the BMV website or fill out at the branch.

You will take a written test covering Indiana traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test. The written test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. The driving test evaluates your ability to operate the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. You can schedule a driving test appointment through the BMV website to avoid waiting in line on the day of your test.

The fee for a four-year license is $32.50 for a standard license or $37.50 for a Real ID license. Fees are higher for drivers 75 and older. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or card at most branches.

Renewing Your Indiana License

If your license is not expired or has been expired for less than two years, you can renew it without retaking the written or driving test. You have three options: renew online, renew by mail, or renew in person at a BMV branch.

Online renewal is the fastest option and costs $32.50 for a standard four-year license. You can renew online if your current license is valid, you have not changed your address, you do not need to update your photo, and you do not need to change your name or gender marker. You will need your license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The new license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days.

Mail renewal is available if your license is not expired. Complete Form DL-43, include a copy of your current license, and mail the packet to the BMV address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee. Processing takes two to three weeks after the BMV receives your process.

In-person renewal at a BMV branch is required if you need to update your photo, change your address, update your name or gender marker, or if your license has been expired for more than two years. Bring your current license, proof of residency if you changed your address, and the renewal fee. You will not need to retake the written or driving test unless the BMV requests it.

Real ID Licenses and What They Mean for You

A Real ID license meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID license, a passport, a military ID, or another approved federal ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. A standard Indiana license will no longer be accepted for these purposes.

The Real ID license looks similar to a standard license but has a gold star in the upper right corner. It costs $5 more than a standard license ($37.50 for a four-year license). The documents you need are the same as for a standard license—proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.

If you already have a Real ID license, you do not need to do anything. If you have a standard license and want to switch to Real ID before May 2025, you can renew in person at any BMV branch and request the Real ID version. You can also wait until your current license expires and renew as a Real ID at that time.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged License

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it in person at a BMV branch or by mail. You will need to bring or mail proof of identity and proof of residency, along with a completed Form DL-43. The replacement fee is $15.50 for a standard license or $20.50 for a Real ID license.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police and request a report number. While not required by the BMV, a police report can help protect you if the license is used fraudulently. Bring the report number to the BMV if you have one.

In-person replacement is the fastest option and takes a few minutes at the branch. By mail, processing takes two to three weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the branch that is valid for 30 days while your permanent license is being printed.

Finding a BMV Branch and Checking Wait Times

Indiana has BMV branches in most counties. You can find your nearest branch, check current wait times, and schedule appointments on the official BMV website at in.gov/bmv. The website shows the address, hours, and phone number for each location. Some branches are busier than others, and wait times vary by time of day and day of week.

You can schedule a driving test appointment online, which reserves a specific time slot and reduces your wait. For other transactions like renewals and replacements, you can check the current wait time before you go, but appointments are not available. Branches typically have shorter waits early in the morning and on weekdays rather than weekends.

If you cannot visit a branch in person, some transactions can be completed by mail. The BMV website lists which services are available by mail and provides the mailing address and instructions for each one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Indiana license if it has been expired for more than two years?

No, you cannot renew by mail or online if your license has been expired for more than two years. You must visit a BMV branch in person and may need to retake the written and driving tests. Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.

What happens if I fail the written test for my first license?

You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake the test. You must pass before you can take the driving test. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.

Do I need a Real ID license if I only drive within Indiana?

No, a standard Indiana license is sufficient for driving within the state. You only need Real ID if you plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings. After May 7, 2025, a standard license will not be accepted for these purposes, but it remains valid for driving.

How long does it take to get a new license after I pass the driving test?

Your permanent license is mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the branch that is valid for 30 days while your permanent license is being printed.

Can I change my address on my license without renewing it?

You can update your address by renewing your license in person at a BMV branch. There is no separate process to change your address without renewing. If your license is not expiring soon, you can wait until renewal time to update your address, or you can renew early and pay the full renewal fee.

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.