Indiana license plate renewal happens through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, either online, by mail, or in person at a branch office

You can renew your Indiana plate without visiting an office if you renew online through the BMV website or by mail. Online renewal takes minutes and you receive your new plate within one to two weeks. Mail renewal takes longer but works if you prefer not to go in person. If you need your plate when ready or have questions about your specific vehicle, you can walk into any BMV branch.

The cost depends on your vehicle type and weight. Standard passenger cars cost less than commercial vehicles or those over a certain weight threshold. Indiana also charges a one-time $15 fee if you are renewing online for the first time through their system. You pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the BMV website is the fastest option and takes about one to two weeks from payment to receiving your new plate.
  • You need your current plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), and a valid payment method to renew online.
  • Mail renewal requires sending your current plate and a completed form to the BMV, and takes three to four weeks total.
  • In-person renewal at a BMV branch is when ready if you bring your vehicle title, current registration, and proof of insurance.
  • Your registration expires on the date printed on your current plate, and renewing late may result in a late fee or suspension of driving privileges.

Renewing online through the BMV website

Go to in.gov/bmv and select the renewal option. You will need your current plate number, your vehicle identification number (VIN), and the last four digits of your Social Security number or your driver's license number. The system will pull up your registration record and show you the renewal fee for your vehicle.

After you pay, the BMV mails your new plate to the address on file. Standard delivery takes one to two weeks. You can continue driving on your current plate until the new one arrives. If your address has changed since your last registration, update it before you pay, because the plate will be mailed to whatever address the BMV has in the system.

Renewing by mail

Request a renewal form from the BMV by calling 317-234-2000 or visiting a branch office in person. You can also read the form from the BMV website. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current plate to the address listed on the form.

Include a check or money order for the renewal fee. The BMV processes mail renewals in the order they arrive, which typically takes three to four weeks. Your registration remains valid during this time as long as you mailed the form before your expiration date. Keep a copy of what you send in case the BMV needs to contact you about your renewal.

Renewing in person at a BMV branch

Bring your vehicle title, current registration card, proof of insurance, and a valid photo ID. You can also bring your current plate if you want to turn it in, though it is not required. The BMV will process your renewal on the spot and issue you a new plate before you leave.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Branches are typically less busy on weekday mornings. You can find your nearest branch and check current wait times on the BMV website. If you are renewing a commercial vehicle or a vehicle registered to a business, bring the business registration documents as well.

What happens if your plate expires

Driving with an expired plate is illegal in Indiana. If you are stopped by police, you can receive a citation and a fine. If your registration has been expired for more than 60 days, your driving privileges may be suspended until you renew and pay any late fees.

The BMV charges a late fee if you renew after your expiration date. The amount depends on how long your registration has been expired. If your privileges have been suspended, you must renew your registration and pay the suspension reinstatement fee before you can legally drive again.

Changing your address or vehicle information

If you have moved since your last registration, update your address before you renew. Online renewal will prompt you to confirm your address; if it is wrong, correct it at that time. For mail or in-person renewal, write your new address clearly on the form or tell the BMV clerk.

If you have made modifications to your vehicle that changed its weight class or if you are renewing a vehicle you recently purchased, the renewal fee may be different. The BMV will calculate the correct fee based on the information in their system. If you believe the fee is wrong, ask the clerk or call the BMV to verify before you pay.

Renewing a commercial or specialty plate

Commercial plates, farm plates, and specialty plates (such as disabled veteran or organizational plates) follow the same renewal process as standard plates, but the fee structure is different. Online renewal works the same way. If you are renewing a specialty plate and your may be able to access has changed, you may need to renew in person or by mail so the BMV can verify your status.

If you are renewing a plate for a vehicle registered to a business, the business owner or an authorized representative must sign the renewal form. Bring business registration documents to prove authorization if you are renewing in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my plate if my vehicle registration is suspended?

No. You must first resolve the suspension by paying any outstanding fines, fees, or child support obligations. Contact the BMV to find out why your registration is suspended and what you need to do to clear it before you can renew.

What if I lost my current plate?

You can still renew online or by mail using your plate number if you remember it, or by providing your VIN. If you cannot provide either, visit a BMV branch in person with your title and registration so they can look up your information in their system.

Do I have to renew my plate every year?

Yes. Indiana requires annual registration renewal. Your expiration date is printed on your current plate. You can renew up to 30 days before your plate expires, so you do not have to wait until the last moment.

How long does it take to get a plate if I renew in person?

You receive your new plate when ready when you complete your renewal at a BMV branch. You can drive away with it the same day. If you choose online or mail renewal, allow one to four weeks depending on the method.

What if my address on file is incorrect and I renew online?

The plate will be mailed to the address in the BMV system. If you realize the address is wrong after you have paid, call the BMV when ready at 317-234-2000 to see if they can redirect the mail before it is sent out. If the plate arrives at the wrong address, contact the BMV to request a replacement.