Indiana Car Registration

Registering your car can be a challenging endeavor, but dealing with registration doesn't have to be complicated. We've collected helpful information that will save you some time, and we offer links to resources that will get you going in the right direction. Select from the options below to get started.

1: Online Easy Guide and checklist download

2: By mail, if eligible (read below for instructions)

3: In person at a local BMV office




New Indiana Car Registration

If you have purchased your vehicle through a dealership then they will perform all necessary registration tasks, but if you have just bought or been gifted a car any other way, or become an official resident, you are expected to register your vehicle as soon as possible. For a list of all BMV offices and their phone numbers make sure to visit http://www.in.gov/bmv/2337.htm.

Visit car-registration.org for a step-by-step guide to obtaining a new Indiana car registration.

Renewing your Indiana Vehicle Registration

Renewing your registration is an easy process in Indiana, as you are given option of renewing in person, online, by phone, or via mail.

Indiana allows some drivers to renew their registration online, provided that they meet the certain state requirements. In order to register online, be sure to have ready your proof of insurance, license plate number (and the co-owners if applicable) and other personal information such as Social Security number and your date of birth. You will also need a MasterCard or Visa credit or debit card, or checking account information, to pay the relevant fees.

To renew your Indiana vehicle registration in person visit http://www.in.gov/bmv/2337.htm for a list of BMV offices in the state of Indiana. You will also be required to present payment for the required fees, proof of insurance, a registration renewal form, your current registration, Social Security number, emissions certificate (if applicable) and license plate number.

You are only eligible to renew by mail if you’re out of state or can’t make it into an office. To renew by mail, fill out the renewal notice, get an emissions test (if applicable), and mail your payment and notice to the address listed on the form.

Finally, if you wish to register by phone, you must have already completed an emission inspection (if applicable). Call 1-877-4NEWBMV and make sure you have your renewal card on hand as it has all the information you will need for this process. You will also need to pay the required fees at this time.

Replacing Your Indiana Car Registration

Losing your registration can be a pain, but if you live in Indiana it is easily fixable. You can apply for a duplicate Indiana car registration (for a fee of $9) in person at any BMV office.  Be sure to bring a driver’s license or state ID card, license plate number and vehicle’s VIN number.

Changing Your Address

In Indiana, changing the address on your vehicle’s registration can be done either in person, or by mail. If you choose to change your address by mail, be sure to include your name, new address, driver’s license number, Social Security number, previous address and proof of residency (i.e. cable bill, electric bill, employment pay stub, etc.).

If you choose to change your address in person, visit www.in.gov/bmv/2337.htm for a list of BMV branches, and be sure to bring your Social Security Number and two proofs of residency.