While the myriad rules and regulations enforced by the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) apply to drivers of all ages and stages, the state imposes some special requirements and restrictions on older drivers.
Indiana state rules are explained in more detail below, but a number of them focus on identifying and handling older drivers who may have become unsafe. Specifically, Indiana:
Time limits: Drivers age 75 and older must renew in person every three years.
Those 85 and older must renew in person every two years.
Drivers younger than 75 can renew online every six years.
Vision test: Required at renewal.
Written test: Required if a license has expired for more than six months.
Road test: Required if the BMV has received a complaint or has concerns about a driver's vision or medical condition.
The BMV can place restrictions or conditions on a person's driver's license after administering a driving test and discussing possible restrictions with him or her.
The most common restriction for older drivers is to require glasses or corrective contact lenses.
In Indiana, other common requirements the BMV may impose on older drivers include:
The BMV will accept information from virtually any person who is concerned about a driver's ability to drive safely—and will keep the source of the complaint confidential.
To request that the BMV review driving qualifications, write a letter identifying the driver who is causing the concern, giving specific reasons for making the request. Documentation such as concerns from others who have knowledge of the person's driving ability may also be included. Mail the letter and any additional relevant information to:
Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles
100 N. Senate Avenue, Room N-402
Indianapolis, IN 46204
For information on how to get back a license that has been suspended or revoked, review the information on the Reinstating Your Driving Privileges page.
Parking placards and license plates can be issued to drivers with impaired mobility if a licensed medical professional certifies the condition.
The placards and plates are available for those who:
Steps required to obtain a disabled placard or plate are:
The BMV website has basic information for Indiana drivers, including instructions for creating and viewing an online account giving drivers access to their records.
You can use Nolo's Lawyer Directory to find a local lawyer experienced in representing older people who need help with auto accidents or traffic tickets in Indiana.
Need a lawyer? Start here.