The issue date on an Indiana driver's license is labeled ISS and appears on the front of the card. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) issues licenses valid for 6 years for most adult drivers. Here is where to find ISS and how to read the other fields on your Indiana license.

Where to find the issue date on an Indiana driver's license

On the current Indiana BMV license design, the issue date is labeled ISS and printed on the front of the card. ISS stands for Issue Date and shows when the BMV issued your current card. Renewing your license resets ISS on the new card while keeping your license number the same.

Date fields on an Indiana driver's license

• ISS — Issue date. When your current card was printed.
• DOB — Date of birth. Your birthdate for identity and age verification.
• EXP — Expiration date. Indiana licenses are valid for 6 years for drivers ages 18 to 74. Drivers 75 and older receive shorter-term licenses with more frequent renewal requirements.

What does DD mean on an Indiana driver's license?

DD stands for Document Discriminator, a unique serial number for each physical card. It changes every time a new card is issued and differs from your license number. Banks, car rental agencies, and background check systems use it to confirm card authenticity.

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Restrictions on an Indiana driver's license

Indiana licenses display restrictions in the RSTR field. Common restriction codes:

• A — Corrective lenses required
• B — Daylight driving only
• C — No highway or expressway driving
• E — Automatic transmission only
• F — Left outside mirror required

Indiana REAL ID

Indiana offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant licenses. A REAL ID Indiana license has a gold star in the upper right corner. From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another accepted federal document is required for domestic air travel and federal facility access. To get an Indiana REAL ID, visit a BMV branch in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your Indiana address.

How to renew an Indiana driver's license

Indiana BMV offers online renewal at in.gov/bmv for eligible drivers. Online renewal is available if you do not need a new photo and your information has not changed. In-person renewal at a BMV branch is required for first-time REAL ID, new photos, and CDL transactions. Indiana BMV has branches throughout the state with some extended-hour locations.

How to find your original Indiana licensing date

The ISS date on your card shows when your current card was issued, not when you first became licensed in Indiana. To find your original licensing date, request a copy of your official Indiana driving record through the BMV website or in person at any BMV branch.