Indiana drivers face significant updates to the license renewal process, with new requirements, stricter enforcement, and expanded online options. Here’s what you need to know to stay legal and avoid unnecessary headaches.
Key Changes at a Glance
- Online renewal is now available to more drivers, but with stricter eligibility rules
- Vision testing requirements have been clarified and expanded, especially for seniors
- Stricter penalties and retesting for expired licenses
- Documentation requirements for Real ID and personal information changes
- Special rules for older drivers and those with medical or legal issues
Who Can Renew Online—and Who Can’t
Indiana has streamlined its online renewal system, but only drivers who meet all eligibility criteria can renew without visiting a BMV branch. To qualify for online renewal, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen and Indiana resident
- Hold a standard (not commercial) license
- Have no changes to your name or address
- Be between 21 and 74 years old (some exceptions for older drivers with recent vision screening)
- Have fewer than six active points on your driving record
- Not have special license restrictions (such as medical or legal conditions)
- Not have a license expired for more than 180 days
- Have completed your last renewal in person at a BMV branch
- Have your previous photo on file
If you meet all these conditions, you can renew online or at a BMV Connect kiosk, and your new license will arrive by mail within about two weeks.
When You Must Visit a BMV Branch
Certain circumstances require an in-person renewal:
- You have a commercial driver’s license or a For-Hire endorsement
- You need to change your name, address, or other personal information (bring documentation)
- Your license has been expired for more than 180 days
- You are 75 or older (unless you submit a recent vision screening)
- You are a foreign national (must provide documentation of identity, lawful status, Social Security number or proof of ineligibility, and Indiana residency)
- You have six or more active points on your driving record (must retake the written test)
- You do not yet have a Real ID (must bring required documents)
New and Clarified Testing Requirements
Vision Test:
All drivers must pass a vision screening at least every other renewal. Drivers 75 and older must complete a vision test every renewal. This can be done at the BMV or by submitting a completed Vision Screening Documentation form from a licensed eye doctor.
Written and Driving Tests:
- If your license expired less than 180 days ago: Pay a $6 penalty and pass a vision screening.
- Expired 180 days to 3 years: Pay a $6 penalty, pass a vision screening, and retake the written test.
- Expired more than 3 years: Pay a $6 penalty, pass a vision screening, retake the written and driving skills tests.
License Validity Periods and Fees
| Age Group | License Validity | Renewal Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 21–74 | 6 years | $17.50 |
| 75–84 | 3 years | $11.00 |
| 85 and older | 2 years | $7.00 |
Older drivers pay lower fees due to more frequent renewals.
Real ID and Documentation
If you are applying for a new license, permit, or need to update your information, you must provide documents for Real ID compliance:
- One document proving identity
- One document proving lawful status
- One document proving Social Security number
- Two documents proving Indiana residency
- Documentation of any name changes
Special Rules for Seniors and Medical Conditions
- Drivers 75 and older must have a vision test every renewal but may renew online or at a kiosk if they submit a recent vision screening from an eye doctor.
- Drivers with certain medical conditions or license restrictions must renew in person every time.
Out-of-State Renewals
If you are out of Indiana when your license expires, you can request a 30-day interim license by mail, giving you time to return and renew in person.
What This Means for Indiana Drivers
- Plan ahead: You can renew up to 24 months before your license expires.
- Check your eligibility: Not everyone qualifies for online or kiosk renewal.
- Gather documents: Especially if you need a Real ID or are changing personal information.
- Don’t let your license expire: The longer you wait, the more tests and penalties you’ll face.
The overhaul aims to make renewal more efficient for most drivers, but it also tightens enforcement and documentation standards. Review your situation carefully to avoid last-minute surprises at the BMV.
Sources
- https://www.in.gov/bmv/licenses-permits-ids/learners-permits-and-drivers-licenses-overview/drivers-license/renewing-a-drivers-license-learners-permit-or-identification-card/
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/indiana-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
- https://driving-tests.org/academy/renew/indiana
- https://zutobi.com/us/in-car/driver-guides/indiana-drivers-license-renewal-guide
- https://www.idrivesafely.com/defensive-driving/trending/how-renew-your-indiana-drivers-license-online
