Moving to Indiana: Your Checklist for License, Title, Registration and Voting

Indiana gives new residents a single, simple deadline for the car and the license: 60 days for each [1]. The registration deadline to vote is the other date to watch: 29 days before each election [3].

1. Insure the car

Indiana’s minimum liability coverage is 25/50/25 [2]:

• $25,000 for injury or death of one person,
• $50,000 per accident for two or more people,
• $25,000 for property damage.

You’ll need proof of insurance to get Indiana plates and registration [1].

2. Title and register within 60 days

You have 60 days to apply for an Indiana title for each vehicle with an out-of-state title. Late applications can be charged an administrative penalty [1]. Bring [1]:

• your certificate of title,
• proof of your Indiana address,
• proof of your Social Security number,
• proof of insurance,
• the vehicle itself, for a VIN inspection . If you can’t bring it in, a police officer can complete State Form 39530.

Emissions testing is required only for vehicles registered in Lake and Porter counties [1].

3. Get your Indiana driver’s license within 60 days

If you have a valid license from another state, you have 60 days to switch [1]. You’ll surrender the old license and bring proof of identity, lawful status, Social Security number and Indiana residency [1].

What you need to pass depends on your license [1]:

• Valid out-of-state license, 18 or older: a vision screening.
• Expired license: a knowledge exam. If it’s been expired more than five years, or you held it less than a year, a driving test too.
• No valid license: you start with a learner’s permit, held for 180 days.
• Drivers under 18 have their own steps, depending on how long they’ve been licensed.

The BMV can issue a temporary license, good for 30 days, while it verifies your documents [1].

4. Register to vote

Registration closes 29 days before each election [3]. You can [3]:

• register online through the state’s voter portal,
• mail a paper form, available at IndianaVoters.com and public libraries,
• register in person at a license branch or your county election office.

5. Look up your property tax breaks

If you buy a home, file for the homestead deduction with your county auditor. Applications filed by January 15 apply to that year’s bill. See our guide to the Indiana homestead deduction.

Quick checklist

• Insure your car to at least 25/50/25.
• Apply for an Indiana title within 60 days; bring the car for a VIN inspection.
• Register the car and get Indiana plates.
• Pass emissions testing first if you live in Lake or Porter County.
• Get your Indiana driver’s license within 60 days.
• Register to vote at least 29 days before the next election.
• Bought a home? File for the homestead deduction by January 15.