Driver License Frequently Asked Questions

 Iowa Dept. of Transportation, Office of Driver Services

Mailing Address
   Office of Driver Services
   P.O. Box 9278
   Des Moines, IA  50306-0473
Physical Address
   Office of Driver Services
   6310 SE Convenience Blvd.
   Ankeny, IA  50021
Telephone
   800-532-1121 - Toll-Free in Iowa
   515-244-9124 - Local Des Moines
   515-244-8725 - Local Des Moines
FAX
   515-239-1837 - Local Ames
E-mail
 ods@dot.iowa.gov





How can I obtain a manual in order to study for the written operator test? (back to top)

If your county issues Driver’s License, we have Driver’s License Instruction manuals on hand in our office as well as Commercial Driver’s License and Motorcycle Operator manuals.  Stop in and pick one up.

OR

http://www.dot.state.ia.us/mvd/ods/dlmanual.htm





How can my child obtain a school license? (back to top)

http://www.dot.state.ia.us/mvd/ods/msl.htm





How long do I have to renew my driver license? (back to top)

Your license expires on your birthday. It is valid for another 60 days and can be renewed within that 60 days without having to take the knowledge test.
Other states, airlines or businessess requiring ID may no recognize the 60 days.

You will have to pass the vision screening test each time your license is renewed. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you will have to take the driving test as well as the knowledge test and vision screening.

Under special circumstances, you can apply for your license renewal from 30 days to one year before the expiration on your license. You must, however, explain to the examiner why you’re applying for such an early renewal.

For information from the state of Iowa, click HERE.





I have just moved to Iowa.  What do I need to do to get my Iowa driver license? (back to top)

If you just moved to Iowa, you are considered an Iowa resident for the purposes of driver licensing and vehicle registration when you have done at least one of the following:

• registered to vote.
• enrolled your children in public school.
• accepted a permanent job.
• resided in Iowa for 30 continuous days.
  
  

If you have a valid out-of-state license, follow these steps to obtain your Iowa license:

1. Satisfy Iowa’s identification, Social Security disclosure, and residency requirements with licensing personnel.
2. Take required tests. Knowledge and driving tests may be waived if you surrender a valid out-of-state license (excluding instruction permits) and you have no mental or physical disability that may affect your driving.
3. Turn in your out-of-state license to the DOT.
   
   

If your county treasurer issues drivers licenses, contact them for more information.

For information from the state of Iowa for new residents, please click HERE.





I have misplaced my Iowa license.  How can I get a duplicate? (back to top)

If your license has been lost or stolen, please contact your driver’s license station. There is a $3 charge for a duplicate license. If your social security number is not your driver’s license number, you will also need to bring your social security card.

For information from the state of Iowa regarding replacing your license, click HERE.





My child will be turning 14 next month.  What do we need to bring in so they can take the written test? (back to top)

To obtain an instruction permit, you must be 14 years old and pass the vision and written tests.

If you are under the age of 18, you will need a government issued certified birth certificate, your social security card, and the consent of a parent or legal guardian. A Parental Consent form is available at any driver’s license station or click HERE to download form. 

The cost of an instruction permit is $6 for 4 years.

For more information on instruction permits and school licenses, see Iowa’s Graduated Driver License System

Click here for more information from the state of Iowa.





Where can I obtain the study material for the CDL School Bus Endorsement? (back to top)

Click HERE to find that material.





Where do I find out information regarding the Hazardous Material Endorsement? (back to top)

Hazardous Material Endorsement information can be found on the Iowa Department of Transportation’s website.  Click HERE for this information.





How can I pay for my driver license? (back to top)

At this time, driver license transactions can be paid by cash or check.