Updated on July 17, 2021
Did you know the Indiana BMV places a hold on your registration if you have unpaid toll violations? The hold stops you from renewing your registration until the tolls are paid up. And without a updated tags for your vehicle, you can’t drive on public roads in Indiana, so you have to pay your debt as fast as possible with the appropriate party, not the IN BMV.

Also, Indiana requires emissions testing for its vehicles for most first-time registrations and biannually for vehicle owners living in Lake and Porter counties.

A smog check is also needed for 1976 and older vehicles, or those weighing less than 9,000 lbs like a Kia Telluride, Toyota Supra or RAV4 or a Buick Envision. For more information about the vehicle emissions testing program go to the Clean Air Car Check website.

Indiana Vehicle Registration Renewal Guide

How to Renew a Car Registration in Indiana

Residents of Indiana are required to renew their vehicle registrations each year with the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. The expiration date for your registration is the same every year, and are based on your last name. You will receive a notice in the mail a few weeks before your registration will expire.

The notification will typically have information about how much you owe, the date you need to renew by, details about how to renew, and emissions test requirements.

Residents of both Porter and Lake Counties are required to have an emissions test done each year if the vehicle is more than four years old. If the vehicle was made before 1976, the emissions test is not required.

In order to renew your registration online you will need to create an account, which requires an email address, and then log in to the renewal page. You will review your information to make sure that it is all correct and then pay using a credit card, e-check, or debit card. You will be given the option to print out a receipt once the process is complete.

To renew your registration in person you will need to visit your local branch with the following:

• Proof of car insurance.
• Current registration or renewal notice.
• A payment ready.

How to Replace Car Registration Paperwork in Indiana

Driving a vehicle in the state of Indiana requires valid state license plates, certificate of registration and stickers. These items and their replacements are issued by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles. So, in order to meet Indiana state requirements, you must ensure all registration is up to date.

The standard fee for replacing an Indiana license plate, registration certificate, or decal is $9.50. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles or BMV has multiple locations across the state that include a 24-hour service kiosk.

Many duplicate registration services can be completed onsite at these kiosks to avoid long lines and delays. See additional information below on how to replace your vehicle registration.

Indiana Replacement Car Registration (Certificate of Registration)

Valid car registration is required in order to operate a vehicle in Indiana state. The registration certificate is a document that details the car’s vital information including the VIN, vehicle description, and date the vehicle was registered.

Indiana drivers are required to show this certificate as proof of registration if requested by law enforcement. If the certificate of registration is not provided, the driver could incur stiff penalties as a result. Replace car registration documents online or in person.

Indiana Online Replacement Vehicle Registration Replacement

Requesting a duplicate registration is made much easier through the online services. Drivers are able to print a copy of the registration papers online at myBMV.com. To do so, you can log in with your Driver license number, zip code, and the last 4 digits of your social security.

If you do not have access to a printer or are unable to login through the online portal, you can also receive a duplicate certificate in person at your local BMV office. Identification and a completed application will be required for any replacements.

Replacing Vehicle Registration and License Plates In Indiana

Operating a vehicle legally in Indiana requires a valid car license plate attached to the outside of the vehicle. You will incur fines if the plates are damaged and destroyed beyond clear identification. So, if your license plates are damaged, missing or have been stolen you will need to request replacements immediately.

Damaged and destroyed plates do not need to be returned to the BMV. Dispose of them as you normally would. It is important to note that in the event of a stolen license plate, you are required to report it to law enforcement.

To receive a replacement car registration plate or duplicate plate you must complete the Application for Replacement or Duplicate License Plate (State Form 37135) and take it to a local BMV branch. If available, bring your vehicle registration, along with your completed application. You will need identification as well as information on the car.

You will need the following vehicle information:

• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
• Vehicle make.
• Vehicle model.
• Vehicle type.
• Vehicle color.

Please note, identification will be required for any replacements.

Requesting Duplicate Vehicle Registration

Vehicle stickers are required on every Indiana license plate. Indiana stickers include the day, month, and year of expiration before the renewal date. It also lists the county in which the car was registered. Replacement vehicle registration is available if you have lost or misplaced your license decals.

If you have recently registered a new vehicle but have not received your Indiana decals in the mail within 14 days, you may need to apply for replacement decals. Be sure to apply for replacement car registration as soon as possible.

You can apply for and receive replacement stickers at your local BMV location.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen or Damaged License Plate

Whether you have a damaged registration card or your plates were lost or stolen, the process of receiving a replacement vehicle registration is relatively simple. Provide proof of identity and the vehicle information and you will have no issues getting exactly what you need.

Some services not detailed here may be completed by mail or online. Contact the BMV at (888) 692-6841 for more information on how to replace your vehicle registration.

Request all duplicate registration immediately to avoid additional fees.