Indiana license plate renewal happens through the BMV, either online, by mail, or in person — and the method you choose depends on whether your vehicle has changed and how soon you need the new plate

Indiana's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) sends renewal notices 60 days before your plate expires, and you can renew starting that day. If you have not moved, changed vehicles, or had any registration changes, the fastest route is the BMV's online system at in.gov/bmv. You can also renew by mail or walk into a BMV branch. The renewal itself takes about 10 minutes online, but your new plate arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days — so plan ahead if your expiration date is soon.

Your renewal notice shows your current expiration date and the fee amount, which varies based on your vehicle type and weight. Keep that notice handy when you renew, because you will need your license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN). If you have lost the notice, the BMV website can look up your registration using your driver's license number and date of birth.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal at in.gov/bmv is the fastest method if your vehicle and address have not changed, and you can start 60 days before expiration.
  • Your new plate arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, so renew early if your expiration date is within two weeks.
  • Mail renewal takes longer but works if you prefer not to go online — send your renewal notice and payment to the address printed on it.
  • In-person renewal at a BMV branch is required only if your vehicle information has changed or if you need the plate when ready.
  • Indiana charges different renewal fees based on vehicle weight and type, shown on your renewal notice.

Renewing online through the BMV website

The BMV's online renewal system is open 24 hours and requires your renewal notice, driver's license number, and vehicle information. Go to in.gov/bmv, select "Renew a Vehicle Registration," and enter your plate number and VIN. The system will pull up your current registration and show the renewal fee. You pay by debit card or credit card, and the transaction is complete when ready.

After you pay online, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new plate is printed and mailed to the address on file, arriving in 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit a branch unless your address, vehicle, or ownership has changed since your last renewal. If the online system will not accept your information, it usually means your registration record needs updating — in that case, visit a BMV branch or call the BMV at 317-615-7293 to confirm your details before trying again.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal works if you prefer not to use the online system. Your renewal notice includes a return envelope and instructions. Fill out the notice, include your payment (check or money order made out to the State of Indiana), and mail it to the address printed on the envelope. The BMV processes mail renewals in the order received, which typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date they receive it.

Mail renewal carries a risk: if your payment is lost or delayed, your plate will expire before the BMV receives it. For that reason, online or in-person renewal is safer if your expiration date is within 10 days. Keep a copy of your renewal notice for your records, and do not mail cash — use a check or money order only.

Renewing in person at a BMV branch

Visit a BMV branch if your vehicle information has changed, if you need the plate when ready, or if you prefer to handle it face-to-face. Bring your renewal notice, driver's license, and proof of vehicle insurance. If your address has changed, bring a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. The BMV will process your renewal on the spot and issue a temporary plate valid for 30 days while your permanent plate is mailed.

Wait times at BMV branches vary by location and time of day. Check in.gov/bmv for branch hours and locations near you. Some branches are busier than others — visiting early in the week or early in the day usually means a shorter wait. If you need the plate within a few days, in-person renewal is your only option, since mail and online renewal both require 7 to 10 days for delivery.

What happens if your plate expires before you renew

Driving on an expired plate is a violation in Indiana. If you are stopped, you can be cited and fined. If your renewal notice did not arrive or you missed the important date, you can still renew when ready — the BMV does not require you to wait or pay a penalty fee to renew late. Go online, visit a branch, or mail your renewal as soon as you notice the expiration date has passed.

If you are unsure whether your plate is still valid, check the expiration date on the plate itself (the month and year are printed in the top right corner). You can also call the BMV at 317-615-7293 or log into your account at in.gov/bmv to see your registration status.

Renewal fees and what affects the cost

Indiana renewal fees depend on your vehicle's gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and type. A standard passenger car typically costs less to renew than a truck or commercial vehicle. Your renewal notice shows the exact fee for your vehicle. If you believe the fee is incorrect, contact the BMV before paying — they can review your vehicle's classification and adjust it if needed.

Some vehicles may have access to for reduced fees or exemptions. For example, electric vehicles and certain disabled veteran plates have different fee structures. If you think your vehicle may may have access to for a reduced rate, ask the BMV when you renew, or check the BMV website for a full fee schedule by vehicle type.

Keeping your registration current between renewals

Your registration is valid for one year from the expiration date on your plate. If you move, change your address with the BMV within 30 days — you can do this online at in.gov/bmv or at a branch. If you sell your vehicle or buy a new one, you will need a new registration, not a renewal. If you change your name due to marriage or legal change, update it with the BMV as well.

These changes do not affect your renewal date, but they do affect what information the BMV has on file. Keeping your address and contact details current ensures you receive your renewal notice on time and that your registration documents are accurate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my plate before the 60-day window?

No. Indiana law does not allow renewal more than 60 days before expiration. The BMV's online system will reject early attempts. You can renew starting exactly 60 days before your expiration date, which is shown on your renewal notice.

What if I never received my renewal notice?

You can still renew without it. Go to in.gov/bmv, select "Renew a Vehicle Registration," and enter your plate number and VIN. The system will pull up your registration and show the fee. If you prefer, call the BMV at 317-615-7293 and they can mail you a new notice or help you renew over the phone.

Do I need a new inspection sticker when I renew my plate?

No. Your vehicle inspection sticker is separate from your registration and plate renewal. Indiana requires an inspection every two years, but it does not expire on the same schedule as your plate. Check your inspection sticker for its expiration date.

How long is my temporary plate valid if I renew in person?

A temporary plate issued at a BMV branch is valid for 30 days. Your permanent plate will arrive by mail during that time. If it does not arrive within 30 days, contact the BMV to request a replacement.

Can someone else renew my plate for me?

Yes, if you give them your renewal notice and authorization. They can renew online using your plate number and VIN, renew by mail on your behalf, or visit a branch with a signed letter from you and a copy of your driver's license. The plate will still be mailed to your address on file.