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CDL Renewal and Medical Certification in Indiana

3 min read

Commercial drivers in Indiana must meet specific renewal and medical certification requirements to legally operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV). Understanding the timelines, required documentation, and compliance standards helps drivers maintain their credentials without interruptions.

CDL Renewal Process

Indiana CDLs must be renewed in person at a Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) branch every eight years. Drivers can begin the renewal process up to one year before the license's expiration date. Renewal requires presenting a valid CDL, proof of identity, lawful status, Social Security number, and Indiana residency.

Drivers should also update their self-certification status during renewal, indicating whether they drive interstate or intrastate and whether they are subject to medical certification.

Learn more about How to Obtain a Commercial Driver's License in Indiana.

Required Documents

  • Current Indiana CDL
  • Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
  • Proof of lawful presence
  • Social Security card or W-2
  • Two documents showing Indiana residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)

If your CDL includes a Hazardous Materials (HazMat) endorsement (H), you must complete a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) threat assessment and pass the HazMat knowledge test.

Medical Certification Requirements

All CDL holders must comply with federal medical certification standards under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). You must submit a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) completed by a certified medical examiner listed on the National Registry.

Who Needs a Medical Certificate?

Drivers who self-certify as:

  • Non-Excepted Interstate (NI) – required to have a medical certificate.
  • Non-Excepted Intrastate (NA) – also required to have a medical certificate.
  • Excepted Interstate (EI) and Excepted Intrastate (EA) – typically exempt from medical certification.

You must submit the certificate to the Indiana BMV within 15 days of issuance to avoid disqualification.

How to Submit Medical Certification

You can submit your medical certificate via:

  • Online through the BMV’s myBMV portal
  • Fax: 317-974-1613
  • Mail: Indiana BMV, CDL Programs, 100 N. Senate Ave., Room N 481, Indianapolis, IN 46204

Keep a copy of your submission confirmation and ensure your certification is always up to date.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to renew your CDL on time or submit a valid medical certificate can lead to CDL disqualification. If your medical certificate expires, your CDL privileges will be downgraded to a regular operator’s license, and reinstatement will require re-certification and additional fees.

Additional Resources

For more CDL-related guidance, visit: