BMV Connect Centers are Indiana's self-service kiosks for vehicle registration and renewal

BMV Connect Centers are automated kiosks operated by Indiana's Bureau of Motor Vehicles that let you renew your vehicle registration, replace lost or damaged registration cards, and update your address without visiting a full BMV branch office. They are located inside retail stores, libraries, and other public spaces across Indiana. You can use them during store hours, which often extends beyond typical BMV office hours.

The kiosks accept credit and debit cards for payment and print your new registration card on the spot. You do not need an appointment. However, not every registration transaction can be completed at a Connect Center — some situations require a visit to a full BMV branch office or an online transaction through the BMV website.

Key Takeaways

  • BMV Connect Centers handle routine renewals and address changes but cannot process title transfers, new registrations, or transactions requiring a vehicle inspection.
  • You will need your current registration card, driver's license, and a payment method (credit or debit card) to use a Connect Center.
  • The BMV website lists every Connect Center location and its hours, which vary by retailer.
  • If your registration has been expired for more than one year or you have unpaid violations, you may need to visit a full BMV office instead.

What you can and cannot do at a Connect Center

Connect Centers handle renewal of standard passenger vehicle registrations, replacement of lost or damaged registration cards, and address updates on your registration record. If your registration is current or expired less than one year ago, you can renew it at a kiosk. You can also request a duplicate registration card if yours is damaged or lost.

You cannot use a Connect Center for new vehicle registrations, title transfers, commercial vehicle registrations, or any transaction involving a vehicle inspection. If you are registering a vehicle for the first time in Indiana, changing ownership, or registering a commercial or specialty vehicle, you must visit a full BMV branch office or complete the transaction online through the BMV website if that option is available for your situation.

If your registration has been expired for more than one year, the kiosk will direct you to a full BMV office. Similarly, if you have outstanding violations or unpaid fees on your driving record, the system may require you to resolve those issues before renewing through the kiosk.

How to find a BMV Connect Center near you

The Indiana BMV maintains a searchable map of all Connect Center locations on its official website. You can search by city or ZIP code to find the nearest kiosk and see its hours of operation. Connect Centers are typically located inside Kroger, Meijer, Walmart, and other major retailers, as well as some public libraries and government buildings.

Hours vary by location because they follow the host retailer's operating schedule. Some Connect Centers are open early morning through late evening, while others operate during standard business hours. Check the specific location's hours before you go, especially if you plan to visit on a weekend or evening.

What documents and information to bring

Bring your current vehicle registration card and a valid photo ID (your Indiana driver's license or state ID card). The kiosk will scan both documents to pull up your registration record. You will also need a payment method — the kiosks accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. Cash is not accepted.

Have your vehicle's license plate number or VIN (vehicle identification number) available, though the kiosk can often retrieve your record using your driver's license and registration card alone. If you are updating your address, make sure you know your new address before you arrive.

The renewal process at a Connect Center

Insert your registration card into the kiosk's card reader. The machine will display your current registration information and ask you to confirm or update your address. Review the information on the screen carefully — any errors should be corrected before you proceed to payment.

Once you confirm the details, the kiosk will calculate the renewal fee based on your vehicle's weight and type. You will see the total cost on the screen before you are asked to pay. Insert your credit or debit card and complete the transaction. The kiosk will print your new registration card when ready. Keep this card in your vehicle — it is your proof of current registration.

The entire process usually takes five to ten minutes. If the kiosk encounters a problem — such as an expired registration that is too old to renew at the kiosk, or an unpaid violation on your record — it will display a message directing you to contact a full BMV office or visit the BMV website.

When you need to visit a full BMV office instead

If your registration expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew it at a Connect Center. You will need to visit a full BMV branch office, where staff can help you understand what steps are required to restore your registration. Depending on how long it has been expired, you may need to pay additional penalties or provide proof of vehicle inspection.

New vehicle registrations, title transfers, and commercial vehicle registrations must be handled at a full BMV office or online through the BMV website. If you have unpaid traffic violations or other issues on your driving record, the kiosk will not process your renewal and will direct you to contact the BMV by phone or visit an office in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my registration online instead of using a Connect Center?

Yes. The Indiana BMV website allows you to renew most standard passenger vehicle registrations online if your registration is current or expired less than one year. Online renewal may be faster than visiting a kiosk, and you can do it from home. However, you will receive your new registration card by mail rather than when ready.

What if the Connect Center kiosk rejects my transaction?

The kiosk will display a message explaining why it cannot process your renewal. Common reasons include an expired registration older than one year, unpaid violations, or a registration type that requires in-person handling. Follow the instructions on the screen, which will direct you to the BMV website or a full office location.

Do I need an appointment to use a BMV Connect Center?

No. Connect Centers operate on a walk-up basis — no appointment is needed. However, they are busier during certain times of day and on certain days of the week. Visiting early in the morning or on a weekday may mean shorter wait times.

Can I renew my registration if my address has changed?

Yes. The Connect Center kiosk will ask you to confirm or update your address during the renewal process. Enter your new address on the screen before you complete payment. Your new registration card will reflect the updated address.

What happens if I lose my new registration card right after getting it from the kiosk?

You can request a replacement at another Connect Center or at a full BMV office. You will need to pay a replacement fee. Keep your registration card in a safe place in your vehicle — you are required to have it with you when you drive.