Moving to Indiana starts a clock. What you bring and which exams you take depend on your age and on how long your old license has been expired.
Time a new Indiana resident has to get an Indiana driver's license
Handbook p. 7 ↗Know the rule
If you have never held a valid driver's license from another state, you must hold an Indiana learner's permit for 180 days before applying for an Indiana driver's license.
Handbook p. 7 ↗18 or older with a valid out-of-state license: bring ONE of these
- Your current out-of-state driver's license
- A copy of your official driving record
- A verification letter
New residents 18+: which exams?
| Your out-of-state license | You must pass |
|---|---|
| Expired less than five years | Knowledge exam |
| Held (unrevoked) for less than one year | Knowledge exam |
| Expired more than five years | Knowledge exam and driving skills test |
Know the rule
Every new resident must also prove identity, lawful status, Social Security number, and Indiana residency, and pass a standard vision screening.
Handbook p. 7 ↗Know the rule
Under 18 but older than 16 years and 180 days, having held a valid out-of-state license at least 180 days: bring that license or your official driving record plus your documents, and pass a knowledge exam and vision screening.
Handbook p. 8 ↗An identification card proves who you are without giving you driving privileges. It can, however, carry a Motor Driven Cycle (MDC) endorsement.
Know the rule
An ID card may be issued to an Indiana resident of any age who does not have a driver's license.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Know the rule
Indiana residents cannot hold more than one credential at a time, even if one was issued by another state. You must surrender any other credential to apply for an ID card.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Know the rule
An ID card can carry an MDC endorsement if you are at least 15 and pass an MDC knowledge exam.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Validity of an identification card and an MDC endorsement
Handbook p. 8 ↗Know the rule
ID cards issued to lawful temporary residents expire on the applicant's end-of-stay date.
Handbook p. 8 ↗Put it into practice
You're 25, you just moved from Illinois, and your Illinois license expired six years ago. Within 60 days, visit a branch with your documents and pass a vision screening, a knowledge exam, and a driving skills test.