Iowa Driver’s License Renewal: Everything You Need To Know


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Horse and buggy on an Iowa road

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Driver’s licenses all expire, just like every other document. If you want to continue driving legally, you must get your license renewed. However, the process will differ depending on the state you call home. If you live in Iowa, you might wonder - what does the renewal process look like for you? What should you know ahead of time to make it easier on yourself?

If you’re interested in learning more about the Iowa driver’s license renewal process, you’ve come to the right place. The more you know about the renewal steps, the less stressful it will be in the long run. Read on to learn more about the renewal process for an Iowa license, how to complete the process, fees, and penalties, and more valuable information.

The Iowa Driver’s License Renewal Process

The Iowa driver’s license renewal process isn’t too much work. Here are a few items you should consider before heading to the DMV to renew your legal document:

  • Eligibility: You must be eligible for a license renewal, and it cannot just happen at any time. Also, it’s critical to consider that not everyone will have the ability to renew online.
  • Methods of Renewal: Check the various options to complete the renewal process. Most states offer an online or in-person endeavor option.
  • Required Documentation: There are several documents you might need to pass for your renewal. These items might include a birth certificate, Social Security card, utility bills, and others.
  • Fees: Research potential fees ahead of time to prevent any shock. Some states charge more than others.
  • Testing: You might need a visual or written test for your new license. If that’s the case, study to ensure you pass with flying colors.

The more thorough you are with preparation for your license renewal, the less stressful it will be on your end. It’s always best to be cautious and perform as much research as possible for the best results.

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How To Renew Your Driver’s License in Iowa

There are two popular ways to renew your driver’s license in Iowa - online or in-person. Let’s dive into the process to determine what is ideal and possible for your renewal process in the state.

Online

One of the most popular renewal methods is online, allowing individuals to refresh their license without physically heading to the DMV. Here are the steps required if you want to use the internet to renew your legal ID:

  1. Check requirements: First, ensure you meet the requirements to renew online. You must be 18-69 years old, an Iowa resident, have a valid license that has not expired for more than a year, have renewed your ID last time in-person, be restrictionless, lack vision or medical issues, and more. It’s a very strict allowance. 
  2. Gather documents: Next, gather all the documents necessary to prove you are who you are. This information might include items like a social security card or a marriage certificate for proof of a last name change.
  3. Fill out information: If there are any documents or sections to fill out online, plug in the correct information to complete the process.
  4. Pay fees: There is a $1.50 processing fee online alongside the cost for the renewal.
  5. Print receipt and temporary license: Once everything is in, print proof of your transaction and a temporary ID for use until the permanent one arrives.
  6. Wait for a refreshed ID: Your new one should come in the mail within the month.

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In-Person

If you don’t qualify to complete the renewal for your Iowa license online, you must head to the DMV to do it in-person. Here are the steps you must follow to complete this process physically at your local DMV:

  1. Locate an issuance site: Determine where your closest issuance site is for easy access if you have to wait a long time.
  2. Gather necessary documents: Pull all the documents together as required by Iowa and double-check them to prevent multiple trips. 
  3. Make an appointment: Head to the Iowa Department of Transportation to schedule an appointment for your renewal.
  4. Fill out additional paperwork: Once there, fill out any necessary paperwork they ask of you.
  5. Pay fees: Use a credit card, cash, or check to pay fees necessary for the renewal process.
  6. Take photos and tests: Some cases might require that you take a new photo for your card and undergo vision tests before they approve.
  7. Gather a temporary license: Iowa offers a temporary license while you wait for the new one.
  8. Wait for a new ID: The new ID should come within the month.

Fees, Penalties, and Missing the Renewal Deadline for Iowa Driver’s License Renewal

According to getjerry.com, there is a slight grace period with the Iowa driver’s license renewal process. It will remain valid for 60 days after it expires, allowing you two months to create an appointment to get it renewed or to go through the process online. Once it passes the two-month point, there is potential trouble on the horizon.

Once your license expires, you will get into serious trouble if you’re pulled over and the officer notes the expiration date of your license. You might face fines and even extended jail time depending on the crime and how far over the expiration date you are.

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Final Thoughts

When considering the Iowa driver’s license renewal process, renewing online and in-person are the two best options available for occupants of the state. You must meet specific eligibility requirements to renew online, but everyone may complete the endeavor in-person. The more you know ahead of time about the process, the better it will go for you.

We hope this information was helpful! Although it might seem intimidating to renew your license, it’s something everyone must do if they want to continue to drive a vehicle in Iowa. Whether it’s your first time or your sixth, there is a streamlined way of doing things. Don’t put it off until the last minute - it will only become more stressful as time goes on.

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