Where to renew and what you need before you start

You can renew your Indiana car registration online through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) website, by mail, or in person at any BMV branch. The online route is fastest — you can complete it in minutes if your vehicle has no liens and your address is current. Mail and in-person renewal take longer but work if you prefer not to use the website or if your situation requires a staff member to review documents.

Before you start, gather your current registration card, proof of a passing vehicle inspection (if your vehicle requires one), and proof of insurance. You'll also need a valid Indiana driver's license or ID. If your vehicle has a lien, the lienholder must consent to the renewal, which usually happens automatically if they're listed on your title — but contact them first if you're unsure.

Indiana sends renewal notices by mail about 30 days before your registration expires. The notice includes your renewal fee, which varies based on your vehicle's weight and type. Check the notice for the exact amount, or look up your fee on the BMV website using your vehicle identification number (VIN).

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the BMV website is the fastest option and takes about five minutes if you have no liens and current insurance.
  • You must have proof of a passing vehicle inspection and current insurance before renewing, regardless of which method you choose.
  • Renewal fees depend on your vehicle's weight and type; the BMV website shows your exact fee before you pay.
  • If your registration expires, you can still renew online or by mail, but driving with an expired registration is illegal and can result in a ticket.
  • Mail renewal takes two to three weeks; in-person renewal is when ready if you bring all required documents.

Renewing online through the BMV website

Go to in.gov/bmv and select "Renew Registration" from the homepage. You'll need your current registration card and driver's license number. The system will pull up your vehicle information and show you the renewal fee. Review the information for accuracy — if your address or vehicle details are wrong, you'll need to correct them before paying.

Pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. The BMV charges a $1 convenience fee for online payment. Once you complete the transaction, you'll receive a confirmation number when ready. Your new registration card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive legally during this time as long as you carry your confirmation number or your old registration card.

Online renewal is not available if your vehicle has a lien that is not properly recorded with the BMV, if you owe back taxes or fees to Indiana, or if your inspection has expired. The system will tell you if you're ineligible and direct you to the next step.

Renewing by mail

Use the renewal notice the BMV sent you. Fill out the form on the back, enclose a check or money order for the renewal fee (made payable to the Indiana BMV), and mail it to the address shown on the notice. Include a copy of your proof of insurance and proof of inspection if your vehicle requires one.

Mail your renewal at least two weeks before your registration expires to account for processing time. The BMV typically processes mail renewals within 10 to 15 business days of receipt, though delays can occur during peak periods. Your new registration card will arrive separately by mail. If you need to drive before it arrives, keep a copy of your mailed renewal form or your old registration card with you.

If you lost your renewal notice, you can request a duplicate by calling the BMV at 317-615-7293 or visiting a branch in person. You can also renew by mail without the notice if you include your VIN, current registration card number, and proof of insurance.

Renewing in person at a BMV branch

Bring your current registration card, proof of insurance, proof of inspection, and a valid ID to any BMV branch. You can find branch locations and hours on the BMV website. Walk-in service is available, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Consider visiting early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid longer lines.

A staff member will verify your documents, confirm your vehicle information, and process your payment. You'll receive your new registration card on the spot. This is the only method that gives you an when ready new card, which is useful if your old one is damaged or if you're leaving the state soon.

In-person renewal takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the branch is. Bring cash, a check, or a debit or credit card — not all branches accept all payment methods, so call ahead if you want to confirm.

Vehicle inspection requirements and timing

Indiana requires a vehicle inspection every two years. Your inspection is valid for one year from the date it was performed. If your inspection expires before your registration does, you must renew the inspection before you can renew your registration. You cannot renew registration online or by mail without proof of a current inspection.

Get your inspection at any BMV branch or at an authorized inspection station. The BMV website lists all authorized stations by county. An inspection takes about 10 minutes and costs $15. Bring your vehicle keys and current registration card. The inspector will check your lights, wipers, horn, brakes, and other safety equipment, then issue a certificate if your vehicle passes.

If your vehicle fails inspection, you'll receive a list of what needs to be fixed. You can have the repairs done and return for a re-inspection at no extra cost within 30 days. After repairs, bring your vehicle back to the same station or another authorized station to complete the inspection.

What happens if your registration expires

Driving with an expired registration is illegal in Indiana. If you're stopped by law enforcement, you can be issued a citation, which carries a fine. The fine amount depends on how long your registration has been expired and whether you have prior violations.

You can renew an expired registration using any of the three methods — online, by mail, or in person. There is no grace period, so renew as soon as you notice your registration has lapsed. If you renew online or by mail, you can legally drive while your new card is in transit if you carry your confirmation number or a copy of your mailed renewal form.

If your registration has been expired for more than a few months, contact the BMV before renewing to check whether you owe any back fees or penalties. Call 317-615-7293 or visit a branch in person.

Insurance and registration holds

Indiana law requires you to carry active auto insurance while your vehicle is registered. The BMV may place a hold on your registration renewal if your insurance lapses. This happens when your insurance company reports a lapse to the state, which can occur if you cancel your policy or if your payment fails.

If you have a registration hold due to insurance, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a BMV branch in person with proof of current insurance. A staff member will clear the hold and process your renewal. Bring a current insurance card or a letter from your insurance company showing your policy is active.

To avoid a hold, keep your insurance active at all times, even if you're not driving the vehicle. If your policy lapses, notify your insurance company when ready and provide proof of reinstatement to the BMV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my registration if my vehicle has a lien?

Yes, as long as the lienholder is listed on your title with the BMV. The lienholder's consent is automatic in most cases. If you're unsure whether the lien is recorded, contact your lender or the BMV. If the lien is not recorded, you'll need to have it added before renewing.

How much does it cost to renew registration in Indiana?

The fee depends on your vehicle's weight and type. Most passenger vehicles cost between $20 and $35. Check your renewal notice or enter your VIN on the BMV website to see your exact fee. Online payment includes a $1 convenience charge.

What if I move to a different address before my registration expires?

Update your address with the BMV before renewing. You can do this online, by mail, or in person. When you renew, your new registration card will be mailed to your updated address. If you renew before updating your address, the card will go to your old address.

Can I renew my registration if I'm out of state?

Yes. You can renew by mail or online from anywhere. By mail, send your renewal notice, payment, and proof of insurance to the address on the notice. Online, use the BMV website. You cannot renew in person at a BMV branch unless you're physically in Indiana.

What if my inspection expires before my registration?

Get a new inspection before renewing your registration. You cannot renew online or by mail without proof of a current inspection. Visit any BMV branch or authorized inspection station. The inspection costs $15 and takes about 10 minutes.