Indiana lets you renew online if you meet specific requirements
You can renew your Indiana driver's license online through the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) website if your license is not expired, suspended, or revoked, and you have not had certain violations or address changes that require an in-person visit. The online process takes about 10 minutes, costs the same as renewing in person, and you receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Not everyone can use the online route. If your license expired more than 5 years ago, if you need to change your address, or if you have had a suspension or serious violation, you must visit a BMV branch in person. The BMV website tells you whether you are may be able to access before you start the process.
Key Takeaways
- Indiana's online renewal works only if your current license is valid and you have no active suspensions, revocations, or recent violations.
- The renewal fee is the same online or in person, and you pay by debit card or credit card during the online transaction.
- Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can continue driving on your current license until it arrives.
- If you cannot renew online, the BMV website will tell you which branch to visit and what documents to bring.
- You must have a valid email address and Social Security number to start an online renewal.
Who can renew online and who cannot
The BMV allows online renewal for standard driver's licenses and identification cards, but only under certain conditions. Your current license must not be expired, suspended, or revoked. You cannot have had a conviction for driving under the influence, reckless driving, or certain other violations within a set timeframe. You also cannot have an active address change pending or a name change that requires court documentation.
If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, visit the BMV's online renewal portal at in.gov/bmv. Enter your driver's license number and date of birth. The system will tell you when ready whether you can renew online or must visit in person. This check takes less than a minute and does not commit you to anything.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin the online renewal process: your current Indiana driver's license number, your date of birth, your Social Security number, and a valid email address. You will also need a debit card or credit card to pay the renewal fee. The BMV does not accept checks, cash, or money orders online.
Have your current address ready as well. If you have moved since your license was issued, you will need to provide your new address. If the address on file is correct, the process moves faster. The BMV will mail your new license to the address you confirm during renewal, so make sure it is accurate before you submit.
The step-by-step online renewal process
Start by going to in.gov/bmv and selecting "Renew Your License Online." You will land on a page that asks for your driver's license number and date of birth. Enter both and click "Check may be able to access." The system will confirm whether you can proceed online or must visit a branch.
If you are may be able to access, you will be asked to log in or create an account with the BMV. Use your email address and create a password. Once logged in, review your personal information — name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number. Correct any errors before moving forward. You will then confirm your address and choose whether to renew for 4 years or 8 years. Indiana offers both options; the 8-year renewal costs more but lasts longer.
Next, you will answer questions about your driving record and any changes to your health or vision since your last renewal. Answer honestly; false answers can result in your renewal being denied or your license being suspended later. You will then review the fee, which varies based on the renewal length you chose, and enter your payment information. The BMV accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
After payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Write down or save the confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.
Renewal fees and what they cover
Indiana's renewal fee depends on how long you choose to renew for. A 4-year renewal costs less than an 8-year renewal. The exact amount changes periodically, so check the BMV website for the current fee before you start. The fee is the same whether you renew online or in person.
The fee covers the new license card and the processing of your renewal. It does not cover any additional services, such as a duplicate license or a corrected license if you need to change your name or address through a court order. If you need those services, you must visit a BMV branch in person.
What to do if you cannot renew online
If the may be able to access check tells you that you cannot renew online, the BMV website will explain why and direct you to the nearest branch. Common reasons include an expired license, an active suspension, a recent violation, or a pending address or name change. You will need to visit in person to resolve the issue before you can renew.
To find your nearest BMV branch, go to in.gov/bmv and use the branch locator tool. Enter your city or ZIP code. The locator shows hours, phone numbers, and which services each branch offers. Some branches handle renewals by appointment only, so call ahead or check online before you go. Bring your current license, proof of your new address if you have moved, and a valid payment method.
Tracking your new license after you order it
After you complete your online renewal, you will receive a confirmation email with your confirmation number. The BMV does not send tracking updates by email or text. Your new license will arrive in a standard envelope by U.S. mail within 7 to 10 business days from the date you submitted your renewal.
If your new license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the BMV at the phone number on their website or visit a branch in person. Bring your confirmation number. The BMV can check the status of your renewal and reissue your license if it was lost or damaged in the mail. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online if it expired more than a year ago?
No. If your license has been expired for more than 5 years, you cannot renew online. You must visit a BMV branch in person and may need to retake the written test or vision test. If your license expired less than 5 years ago, the may be able to access check will tell you whether you can renew online.
What if I moved and need to change my address?
If you have a pending address change or have not yet notified the BMV of your move, you must visit a branch in person. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease. Once your address is updated in the system, you may be able to renew online for your next renewal cycle.
Can I renew online if I have a suspended license?
No. You cannot renew online if your license is suspended or revoked. You must visit a BMV branch, resolve the suspension, and then renew. Contact the BMV to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take to lift the suspension.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?
Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license during this time. If it does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the BMV with your confirmation number to check the status.
What if I make a mistake during the online renewal process?
If you notice an error before you submit payment, go back and correct it. If you have already paid and submitted, contact the BMV when ready with your confirmation number. Depending on the error, they may be able to correct it before your new license is printed, or they may issue a corrected license after your new one arrives.