Indiana Driver’s License: 2025 Complete Guide
Need to get, renew, or transfer a driver’s license in Indiana? This up-to-date guide from the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (IN BMV) explains the steps, requirements, and key details for 2025.
How to Get a Driver’s License in Indiana
Step 1: Determine the License Type
Most applicants apply for a Standard or Real ID Class C (Passenger Vehicle) license. Other types include:
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL: Classes A, B, C)
- Motorcycle Endorsement
- Learner’s Permit (especially for teen or new drivers)
Step 2: Gather the Required Documents
For a Real ID-compliant license or standard license, bring:
- One proof of identity (e.g., certified birth certificate or U.S. passport)
- One proof of Social Security number (SS card, W-2, pay stub)
- Two documents proving Indiana residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)
- Proof of lawful status (if applicable)
Step 3: Pass Required Exams
If applying for your first license in Indiana, you must complete:
- Vision screening
- Knowledge (written) test
- Driving (skills) test — Schedule in advance with the BMV
Indiana Learner’s Permit and Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)
Teen drivers under 21 follow Indiana’s GDL system:
- Learner’s Permit (15+ with driver’s ed or 16+ without)
- Must complete 50 hours of supervised driving (10 hours at night)
- Probationary License (16 years, 90 days + driver’s ed OR 16 years, 270 days without)
- Restrictions apply until age 21 (e.g., curfew, passenger limits)
- Full Unrestricted License
- Available at age 21+
Transferring an Out-of-State License to Indiana
New Indiana residents must transfer their out-of-state license within 60 days of moving.
Bring the following:
- Valid out-of-state license
- Required documents (identity, SSN, residency)
- Pass a vision test
- Knowledge and skills tests may be waived if your license is valid and unexpired
Renewing Your Indiana Driver’s License
Renew your license:
- Online at IN.gov/BMV
- In person at a BMV branch
- By mail (limited to eligible residents)
Most licenses are valid for 6 years, with shorter terms for older drivers or certain conditions.
Real ID upgrades require an in-person visit.
Indiana REAL ID – Gold Star License
As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID is required to fly domestically or access federal buildings.
To get a REAL ID:
- Visit a BMV location
- Bring identity, SSN, and two proofs of Indiana residency
- REAL ID cards have a gold star in the top right corner
Indiana Driver’s License Fees (2025)
License Type | Fee (Approx.) |
---|---|
Standard Operator License (6 yrs) | $17.50 |
Learner’s Permit | $9.00 |
Probationary License (under 21) | $9.00 |
Motorcycle Endorsement | $10.00 |
Duplicate or Replacement License | $9.00 |
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) | Varies |
Fees are subject to change and may vary based on endorsements or eligibility.
Indiana Driver’s License Checklist
- U.S. passport or birth certificate
- Social Security number documentation
- Two documents proving Indiana residency
- Out-of-state license (if transferring)
- Certificate of driver’s education (for teen drivers)
Indiana BMV Services
- Driver’s license and learner’s permit issuance
- REAL ID upgrades and renewals
- Out-of-state license transfers
- Vision, written, and road testing
- Motorcycle and CDL services
- Name/address changes
- Online and in-person appointment booking
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For official forms, test locations, and appointment scheduling, visit the Indiana BMV website.
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