How to Replace Your Drivers License in Indiana
Because a stolen or lost drivers license in Indiana can put you at risk for identity theft and other forms of fraud, you should report the theft to your local law enforcement agency if possible. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) offers multiple options to obtain a replacement drivers license as well as liberal limits on how many times each driver may request a replacement. The process to obtain a duplicate credential is available if your card is missing or if it has become damaged.
If you do not obtain a copy of your missing or damaged drivers license, then you may be subject to fines and penalties associated with operating a vehicle without proper credentials. Keep reading to learn how to replace drivers license documents in Indiana, who is eligible to obtain a drivers license copy online and what to do if your license is stolen out-of-state.
When is a replacement drivers license required in Indiana?
You must begin the process of drivers license replacement as soon as you realize this vital form of identification is missing. This is because it is illegal to operate a vehicle without a valid copy of drivers license credentials on hand. Therefore, if you plan to drive a car, then you will need to request a new copy from the BMV immediately.
You must also replace drivers license documentation that has tattered edges, unreadable text or a photo mutilated beyond recognition. It is possible to receive a traffic ticket for driving with a damaged license, just as you can be ticketed for driving without a valid license in your possession.
How to Replace Your Drivers License Online in Indiana
If you need to replace lost drivers license credentials, then you may be able to make the request online. You can request an Indiana drivers license copy online up to ten times before you must complete the process in person. After the tenth time, you will need to go to a BMV branch office to obtain a copy. Additionally, the online process will not allow you to make changes.
All online replacement drivers license requests must be for an exact duplicate of the most recently issued license on file. You may not request a name change or change of address online when you request a duplicate copy. Drivers who have recently moved must first file a change of address on driving license records with the BMV prior to requesting a copy.
In addition to not having any personal information changes, applicants seeking a drivers license copy online in Indiana must meet the following requirements:
- You must be a U.S. citizen.
- You have an operator’s license, which may include a motorcycle or for-hire endorsement.
- Your drivers license is not expired, suspended, revoked or invalidated.
- Your previous photo is on file with the BMV.
- Your driving record is free from restrictions “J” and 2 through 9:
- J – Other
- 2 – Habitual Traffic Violator Conditional License
- 3 – Photo Exempt
- 5 – Conditional
- 6 – Interlock Ignition Device
- 7 – Seat Belt Exempt
- 8 – Medical Condition
- 9 – Temporary
To get copy of drivers license documentation online, simply log into your BMV account or create an account and follow the prompts. You must be able to pay the DMV duplicate license fee by major credit card or an e-check.
How to Replace Your Drivers License by Mail in Indiana
The ability to obtain a duplicate drivers license by mail is available to certain individuals only. A mail-order replacement drivers license is generally reserved for military members serving out-of-state who cannot replace credentials online.
Additionally, the only type documents issued by mail are 30-day interim licenses. Read the section below dedicated to replacing drivers license documentation from out-of-state to learn more about this process.
How to Replace Your Indiana Drivers License in Person
If you are wondering, “Where can I get a copy of my drivers license in Indiana?” then you can visit one of the BMV office locations in person. To get a copy of drivers license credentials, you will need to bring the following to your in-person appointment:
- One document proving your identity
- One document proving your Social Security number
- One document proving your lawful status in the United States
- Two documents providing proof of Indiana residency
Be sure to bring payment for the replacement fee as well as the cost to renew drivers license credentials if you plan to renew when obtaining a replacement. The BMV accepts cash, checks, money orders and major credit and debit cards.
The Indiana BMV strongly recommends that all drivers seeking a DMV duplicate license choose Real ID, also called SecureID, for an increased level of security. A Real ID duplicate drivers license requires more documentation than a non-secure ID but the required documents are usually readily available.
Out-of-State Drivers License Replacement in Indiana
In most cases, it is best to replace lost drivers license credentials online. However, if you are ineligible for online drivers license services and you must replace a lost drivers license while temporarily living out of Indiana, then you may apply for a 30-day interim driving credential that will give you time to return to the state and apply for a replacement copy in person. You will need to complete the state application and mail it to the address printed on the form.
If you are a member of the U.S. Armed Forces residing out-of-state, then you and your dependents have access to BMV military benefits. Your copy of drivers license credentials remains valid for 90 days post-discharge or post-deployment, regardless of the expiration date. You may print a military extension letter and show it in lieu of a license if you must temporarily drive without a valid credential.
How to Report a Missing Drivers License in Indiana
Indiana law does not require drivers to report a stolen or lost drivers license, but the IN BMV suggests doing so to protect your own interests. Simply go to your local law enforcement agency and ask to file a copy of drivers license theft report. Be sure to leave with a copy of the report, which can be used in the future as evidence that a theft occurred.
Indiana Drivers License Replacement Fees
The Indiana drivers license replacement fee of $9 is the same amount whether you order your copy online, in person or by mail. However, obtaining a replacement by mail requires additional postage costs.
If your lost drivers license is nearing expiration and you wish to renew it as well, then you may have to pay a higher fee to receive an updated card.