How to Schedule an Indiana BMV Appointment

In Indiana, it is called the BMV (Bureau of Motor Vehicles), not the DMV.

Unlike many states that have gone “Appointment Only,” Indiana still allows you to walk into any branch. However, if you walk in on a Tuesday morning or over lunch, you might wait 90 minutes or more.

The secret to skipping the line isn’t just booking an appointment—it’s knowing when to use the 24/7 Kiosks instead.

This guide explains how to use the scheduling system, which services (like Road Tests) require a booking, and how to use the “BMV Connect” terminals to renew your tags at 10:00 PM on a Saturday.

BMV Connect Kiosks: The 24/7 Way to Skip the Line

Before you book a slot, check if you can use a BMV Connect kiosk. These are self-service ATMs located in branch vestibules and select grocery stores. They are open 24/7.

What Services Can I Complete at a BMV Kiosk?

• Renew Registration: Prints your sticker instantly.
• Renew Driver’s License: (If you don’t need a new photo).
• Duplicate Title: Prints a copy if you lost yours.
• Driver’s Record: Print your official driving history.

Note: Kiosks are offline for maintenance every Sunday morning from 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM ET.

Walk-Ins vs. Appointments: Which is Faster at the Indiana BMV?

Can I just walk in? Yes. All Indiana BMV branches accept walk-ins.

• The Risk: You are placed in a virtual queue behind everyone who has an appointment.
• Best Time to Walk In: Mid-week (Wednesday/Thursday) between 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM.
• Worst Time: Saturdays and lunch hours (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM).

What Requires an Appointment? You MUST book an appointment for:

1. Driving Skills Test (Road Test): No walk-ins allowed.
2. Interpreter Knowledge Test: If you need a translator.

How to Schedule Your Indiana BMV Appointment Online (Step-by-Step)

If you need to visit a branch (e.g., for a Real ID or New Resident transfer), booking a slot guarantees you are seen within ~15 minutes of arrival.

The Official Scheduler:

1. Go to: IN.gov BMV Scheduler.
2. Select Service: Choose “Renew/Amend Credential” or “New BMV Customer.”
3. Choose Location:
   • Tip: Offices in Noblesville or Greenfield often have shorter waits than downtown Indianapolis or Fort Wayne.
4. Confirm: You will receive a confirmation email. Save this. You may need to scan the barcode when you check in at the front desk.

Scheduling a Driving Skills Test (Road Test) in Indiana

This is the hardest appointment to get. Slots open 3 weeks in advance and fill up instantly.

Requirements:

• You must have a Learner’s Permit.
• You must have a myBMV account (you cannot book this as a guest).
• You must provide a vehicle (with valid registration and insurance).

How to Book:

1. Log in to myBMV.
2. Click “Schedule a Driving Test” on the left dashboard.
3. If you fail the test, you must wait 14 days before re-taking it.

Under 18? If you took a driver’s ed course, you might have a “Waiver” that lets you skip the test at the BMV. Check with your driving school.

Written Test (Knowledge Exam): Do I Need an Appointment?

Do I need an appointment? Technically, no. You can walk in for a written test.

• The Rule: You must arrive at least 1 hour before the branch closes. They will not start a test if there isn’t enough time to finish.
• Study: Read the Indiana Driver’s Manual beforehand. If you fail, you can try again the next business day.

New Residents: Transferring Your License and Title to Indiana

If you just moved here, you have 60 days to transfer your vehicle title and registration.

What to Bring:

1. Social Security Card.
2. Proof of Identity: (Passport or Birth Certificate).
3. Two Proofs of Residency: (Lease, Utility Bill, Bank Statement dated within 60 days).
   • Note: If you don’t have these documents yet, you cannot get a Real ID.

Need to Change Your Address? If you are already a resident and just moved down the street, read our guide on Indiana BMV Change of Address. You might be able to update your registration online, but your license usually requires a visit.

Frequently Asked Questions