How to Renew an Iowa Driver's License [2024]
Renew your Iowa drivers license in 2024 with our simple, step-by-step guide. Find all the necessary requirements, forms, fees, and online renewal options to ensure a hassle-free experience. Stay legal and avoid fines - start your renewal process now!
Replace or Renew Your Driver License in Iowa
In Person
Your license expires on the expiration date printed on the license; however, the license is valid for driving for an additional 60 days after the expiration date. (This 60-day grace period does not apply to licenses that are issued to foreign nationals.)
You can always renew your license in person at one of 100 Iowa issuance sites, but you must renew in person if you are not eligible to renew online.
Plan of Action
Step 1
Apply in person without an appointment.
Step 2
Bring your license and provide documents to verify your:
- Age and identity
- Iowa residence
- Social Security Number
Use this interactive guide to collect your documents quickly.
Step 3
Pass the vision test.
Step 4
Surrender your current driver’s license.
Step 5
Pay the fee of $4.00 per year.
Until Dec. 31, 2018, Iowa driver’s licenses will be issued with a randomly assigned expiration date between five and eight years.
Step 6
Your new license will arrive by mail within 21 days. You can check its status here.
If your license has been expired for more than one year and 60 days, you will have to pass the vision screening, and the knowledge and driving tests.
You can also renew your license at a self-service kiosk if:
- You are between 18 and 70 years old
- You are a US citizen
- You don’t need to make any changes in your name, sex, class type or restrictions
Learn here how self-service kiosks work.
Find a Kiosk near you
By Mail
If you are temporarily out of state, are unable to renew your driver’s license in person and are not eligible to renew online, you may apply for a temporary extension by mail.
Note that the extension mustn’t exceed six months.
Plan of Action
Step 1
Make a request in writing within 30 days before or 60 days after the expiration date.
Step 2
Provide an out-of-state address and/or out-of-state fax number.
Step 3
Mail or fax your request to:
Driver & Identification Services
Iowa Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 9204
Des Moines, Iowa 50306-9204
Fax: 515-239-1837
Online
You may renew online only if you meet all of the following qualifications:
- You have a valid Iowa driver’s license.
- You are at least 18 years old, but younger than 70 years old.
- Your license has not been expired for more than a year.
- It is less than 180 days to the renewal date on your current license.
- You are a U.S. citizen.
- You do not have any medical or vision conditions that would impact your ability to drive.
- You do not need to change your name printed on your license.
- Your current driver’s license was not renewed online.
Plan of Action
Step 1
Go to the DOT online renewal page.
Step 2
Have your driving license information handy.
Step 3
Follow instructions on the website.
Step 4
Pay the fee by card (1.50 online processing fee.
Your new driver’s license will be valid for 5-8 years (selected randomly) and arrive by mail within 21 days. You can check its status here.
Renew Online
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