Indiana Driver Licenses
Obtaining, maintaining, or transferring a driver's license in Indiana is managed directly by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Whether you are a first-time teen driver, an adult getting your credential, a long-time resident renewing your license, or a new resident moving to the state, following standard state requirements ensures a smooth process.
Getting a First-Time Indiana Driver's License
The process of earning an Indiana driver's license depends on your age and whether you complete a BMV-approved driver education course.
Age Eligibility Rules
Beginning July 1, 2026, teens who complete a BMV-approved driver education program are eligible to obtain a full driver's license on their 16th birthday.
| Applicant Age | Driver Education Status | Minimum Permit Holding Period | Required Practice Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 Years Old | Completed BMV-Approved Course | 180 Days | 50 Hours (10 hours at night) |
| 16 Years and 270 Days | Not Completed (Self-Trained) | 180 Days | 50 Hours (10 hours at night) |
| 18 Years and Older | Optional | 180 Days (if under 21) | Supervised log waived if 18+ |
Step-by-Step Licensing Requirements
- Obtain a Learner's Permit: Apply at a BMV branch, pass the vision screening, and pass the written knowledge test.
- Complete Required Practice: Hold your permit for at least 180 days and log 50 hours of supervised driving (with 10 hours at night) using the official state log (Form 54786).
- Pass the Driving Skills Exam: Schedule and pass your behind-the-wheel road test at a BMV branch or through an authorized driver education provider.
- Pay Credential Fees: Pay the standard state licensing fee of $17.50 at the BMV branch.
Renewing Your Indiana Driver's License
Standard Indiana driver's licenses are valid for 6 years for drivers under age 75. Licenses expire at midnight on your birthday.
Renewal Schedule by Age
| Driver Age Group | License Expiration Term | Renewal Requirements & Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Under 75 Years Old | 6 Years | Eligible to renew online, at BMV Connect kiosks, or in person. |
| Ages 75 to 84 | 3 Years | In-person branch renewal; requires a vision screening. |
| Age 85 and Older | 2 Years | In-person branch renewal; requires a vision screening. |
| Probationary Drivers (Under 21) | 30 Days after 21st Birthday | Must renew upon turning 21 to transition to a standard adult license. |
Renewal Fees & Penalties
- Standard Driver's License Renewal: $17.50
- Late Renewal Administrative Penalty: An administrative late fee of $6.00 is assessed if you renew after your expiration date.
Transferring an Out-of-State License to Indiana
New Indiana residents who hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state or territory must transfer their license to Indiana within 60 days of establishing residency.
Requirements for Out-of-State Transfers
To complete an out-of-state license transfer, visit an Indiana BMV branch in person and fulfill the following requirements:
- Surrender Previous Credential: Turn in your valid, unexpired out-of-state driver's license.
- Pass a Vision Screening: All out-of-state transfer applicants must pass an in-branch vision test.
- Testing Waivers: If your out-of-state license is active or expired for less than one year, the written knowledge test and road skills exam are generally waived. If expired for more than one year, you must pass the written knowledge test.
- Pay Transfer Fee: Pay the standard $17.50 driver's license fee.
REAL ID Compliance Requirements
Indiana issues REAL ID-compliant credentials, marked with a star in the upper right corner. A REAL ID is required to board domestic commercial flights or enter specific secure federal facilities.
When applying for your first Indiana license, renewing in person, or transferring an out-of-state license, bringing REAL ID documentation is recommended. A REAL ID costs the same $17.50 as a standard credential.
Required REAL ID Documents
To obtain a REAL ID, bring original or certified copies of the following documents to a BMV branch:
- Proof of Identity: Certified U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or permanent resident card.
- Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 tax form showing full SSN.
- Proof of Lawful Status: U.S. citizenship documents or authorized federal immigration papers.
- Two Proofs of Indiana Residency: Utility bills, bank statements, mortgage/lease contracts, or voter registration cards showing your physical residential address.
- Proof of Name Change (if applicable): Certified marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or legal name-change court orders if your current legal name differs from your birth certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How early can I renew my Indiana driver's license?
- You can renew your Indiana driver's license up to 2 years prior to its expiration date if renewing in person at a BMV branch, or up to 180 days prior to expiration if renewing online through myBMV.com.
- What should I do if my driver's license is lost or stolen?
- If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement online at myBMV.com or in person at a branch for a $9.00 credential replacement fee.
- Can I transfer my out-of-state driving record points to Indiana?
- Indiana receives record notifications from other states through the Driver License Compact. While point systems differ, serious moving violations committed out of state may transfer to your official Indiana driving record.