Indiana License Plate Lookup /DMV Locations

Indiana County DMV Locations

What Does DMV Stand for in Indiana?

Department of Motor Vehicles is a generic term used across the United States to describe the government agency responsible for vehicle registration, driver licensing, and other services. However, it's essential to clarify that the official agency performing these duties in Indiana is not called the DMV but the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles is the central authority for all motor vehicle-related services in the state. This includes issuing driver's licenses and identification cards, administering driving tests, registering and titling vehicles, and maintaining driving records. The BMV also handles personalized and specialty license plates, oversees state-approved driver safety courses, and manages the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) program for commercial vehicle operators.

What is Required for Indiana Car Registration?

To register a car in Indiana, the following steps and documents are necessary:

Visit a Local Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Branch: Locate a nearby BMV branch in Indiana.
Complete the Application for Certificate of Title (State Form 205): Fill out the Application for Certificate of Title (State Form 205).
Provide Proof of Ownership: Original or certified copy of the vehicle title.
Submit a Bill of Sale (if applicable): Submit a bill of sale if the vehicle was recently purchased.
Odometer Disclosure Statement: Provide a completed Odometer Disclosure Statement.
Proof of Identity and Residency: Two documents showing your identity and Indiana residency, such as a driver's license and a utility bill.
Provide Vehicle Information: Make, model, year, vehicle identification number (VIN), and current odometer reading.
Pass Emissions Test (if applicable): Some vehicles may require an emissions test.
Pay Registration Fees: Pay the applicable vehicle registration fees. Fees may vary.
Receive License Plates and Sticker: Once processed, you will receive license plates and a registration sticker.

How Much is Vehicle Registration in Indiana?

In Indiana, the cost of vehicle registration varies based on several factors. Indiana's standard car registration fee is $21.50, along with title fees of $15. However, additional fees may apply for late registration, duplicate registration certificates, changing registration information, transfer license plates, and same license plates. The state also imposes a county tax and a supplemental fee for hybrid or electric vehicles. The total registration cost can also depend on the type of vehicle, its weight, and its value. Additionally, Indiana residents must pay a registration fee of $36.35, as per the Wisevoter website. Therefore, the total amount for vehicle registration in Indiana can vary based on the specific circumstances and the type of vehicle being registered.

How to Get a Renewal Vehicle Registration in Indiana?

To renew your vehicle registration in Indiana, follow these steps:

Receive Renewal Notice: The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) will mail a renewal notice several weeks before your vehicle registration expires.
Check Eligibility for Online Renewal: Confirm your eligibility for online renewal. Many renewals can be done online.
Online Renewal: Visit the official Indiana BMV website, Enter the required information from the renewal notice, and Pay the renewal fees using a valid credit or debit card.
Mail-In Renewal (if not renewing online): Complete the renewal form included in the renewal notice, Include a check or money order for the renewal fees, and Mail the renewal form and payment to the address specified on the form.
Visit a Local BMV Branch (if not renewing online): Locate a nearby BMV branch in Indiana if you prefer in-person renewal.
Complete Renewal Application: Fill out the renewal form available at the BMV branch.
Provide Renewal Notice: Bring the renewal notice received in the mail.
Pay Renewal Fees: Pay the renewal fees as specified in the renewal notice or at the BMV branch.
Receive Renewed Registration: Once processed, you will receive a renewed registration certificate and sticker.

What Do I Need to Get a Driver's License in Indiana?

To obtain a driver's license in Indiana, you will need:

Proof of Identity: Original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization.
Social Security Number (SSN): Social Security card or a document showing the whole SSN.
Proof of Indiana Residency: Two documents showing your Indiana residential address, such as utility bills, rental agreement, or a bank statement.
Proof of Written Signature: A document with your written signature, such as a credit/debit card, canceled check, or a court order.
Completed Driver's License/ID Card Application: Fill out the Driver's License/ID Card Application form.
Pass Vision Exam: Successfully pass a vision screening test.
Pass Written Knowledge Test: Pass the written knowledge test covering traffic laws and signs.
Pass Road Skills Test: Complete the driving skills test unless waived based on completion of a driver education program.
Teen Driver Education Certificate (if under 18): Required for individuals under 18.
Proof of Insurance: Provide evidence of valid vehicle insurance.

Can I Get My Indiana Driver's License Online?

You cannot obtain a new Indiana driver's license online due to the requirement for identity verification, vision screening, and, for new drivers, a road skills test, which must be completed in person. However, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) does offer several online services that can facilitate parts of the process. Here's what you can do online related to getting or renewing your Indiana driver's license:

Renewal: If you already have an Indiana driver's license and meet specific criteria, you can renew your driver's license online through the BMV's official website. This is convenient for those who are simply renewing and don't need to take any tests or change their license status.
Replacement: If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can order a replacement license online.
Address Change: If you've moved to Indiana, you can update your address on your driver's license online.
Practice Tests: While you can't take the official knowledge test online, the Indiana BMV website offers practice tests to help you prepare for the in-person knowledge test.
Scheduling Appointments: You can schedule an appointment for many in-person services at the BMV, including driving tests and applying for a new license, through the BMV's online scheduling system.

For first-time applicants and those needing to take a road skills test, you'll need to visit a BMV branch in person. First-time applicants must also present various documents to prove their identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States, which cannot be verified online.

How Do I Get a Replacement Driver's License in Indiana?

To get a replacement driver's license in Indiana:

Report Loss or Theft Promptly: If your driver's license is lost or stolen, promptly report it to local law enforcement.
Visit a Local Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) Branch: Locate a nearby BMV branch in Indiana.
Complete the Duplicate Driver's License Application (State Form 54706): Fill out the Duplicate Driver's License Application (State Form 54706).
Provide Proof of Identity: Original or certified copy of your birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization.
Provide Proof of Social Security Number (SSN): Social Security card or a document showing your SSN.
Provide Proof of Residency: Two documents showing your Indiana residential address, such as utility bills or a bank statement.
Pay Replacement Fee: Pay the applicable fee for the replacement driver's license. Fees may vary.
Have a New Photo Taken: A new photo will be taken at the BMV office.
Pass Vision Exam (if required): Successfully pass a vision screening test.
Receive Temporary Driver's License: In some cases, you may receive a temporary paper license on the spot.
Wait for Mailing: The replacement driver's license will be mailed to the address on file.

How Do I Get a Renewed Driver's License in Indiana?

To renew a driver's license in Indiana:

Check Eligibility for Online Renewal: Confirm if you can renew your driver's license online. Many renewals can be done online.
Online Renewal: Visit the official Indiana BMV website, Enter the required information, including your driver's license number and Social Security number, and Pay the renewal fees using a valid credit or debit card.
Receive Renewal Notice (if applicable): The Indiana BMV will mail a renewal notice several weeks before your driver's license expires.
Visit a Local BMV Branch (if not renewing online): Locate a nearby BMV branch in Indiana if you prefer in-person renewal.
Complete Renewal Application: Fill out the renewal form available at the BMV branch.
Provide Proof of Identity: Original or certified copy of your birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or Certificate of Naturalization.
Provide Proof of Social Security Number (SSN): Social Security card or a document showing your full SSN.
Provide Proof of Residency: Two documents showing your Indiana residential address, such as utility bills or a bank statement.
Pass Vision Exam (if required): Successfully pass a vision screening test.
Pay Renewal Fees: Pay the applicable renewal fees. Fees may vary.
Have a New Photo Taken: A new photo will be taken at the BMV office.
Receive Temporary Driver's License: In some cases, you may receive a temporary paper license on the spot.
Wait for Mailing: The renewed driver's license will be mailed to the address on file.

Indiana DMV Contact Information

Wabash BMV Branch

Address: 1679 N Cass St, Wabash, IN 46992

Phone: 888-692-6841