He planned to join the IRL IndyCar Series full-time in 1999 for his own team but he couldn't take the start at Phoenix International Raceway and failed to qualify for the Indy 500.

Lazier entered the 2004 season without a ride, but was the relief driver for Robby Gordon in the Indy 500 as he had to leave for Charlotte to drive in the Coca-Cola 600.

Later that season he made eight starts for Patrick Racing after Al Unser Jr. retired and posted several good results, but again was ride-less entering 2005.

When veteran owner Chip Ganassi fired British driver Darren Manning, he called on Lazier to replace him for the remaining oval races of the season.

While with the team he was involved in an incident with rookie fan favorite Danica Patrick at the final race at California Speedway.

Lazier, while actively seeking a ride in the series, was unable to find one until he stepped in for the struggling Stanton Barrett at Team 3G at Texas Motor Speedway in 2009.