Iowa Title & Registration Guide
Complete guide to Iowa vehicle titling, registration, fees, taxes, lien laws, and official forms. Maintained by Illinois Title Services.
Iowa Department of Transportation — Vehicle Services
6310 SE Convenience Blvd, Ankeny, IA 50021 • PO Box 9278, Des Moines, IA 50306-9278
515.237.3110 — [email protected]
Fee Calculator
Estimate your Iowa title and fee costs. Motor vehicles pay a Fee for New Registration ($10 flat + 5% of taxable price) in lieu of sales tax. Vessels, OHVs, and snowmobiles pay 6% sales tax plus Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) if applicable. Title fee is $35 for motor vehicles; $13.50 for vessels/OHVs/snowmobiles. Quick title service is not available in Iowa.
Taxable Price = Base Price + Additions + Delivery Fees − Discounts − Manufacturer Rebate − Trade-In Amount
Select the county where the vehicle owner resides.
If you already paid sales/use tax to another state on this vehicle, enter that amount here. Iowa will credit it against the tax owed — reducing your total.
Checks Payable To
- •Title, Lien & Fee for New Registration: County Treasurer (in county of residence)
- •Note: Allow 15 days for title processing. Quick title is not available in Iowa.
* Estimate only. Annual registration fees are separate and based on vehicle weight and list price. LOST (1%) applies to IDNR vehicles (vessels, OHVs, snowmobiles) in jurisdictions that have adopted it — it does not apply to the Fee for New Registration for motor vehicles. Contact Illinois Title Services for an exact quote.
Title & Proof of Ownership
All motor vehicles, trailers, campers, motorcycles, mopeds, OHVs, snowmobiles, vessels 17 feet and longer, and any vessel with a lien must be titled, unless exempt. Trailers with an empty weight of 2,000 lbs. or less, OHVs registered before January 2000 that have not changed ownership, snowmobiles registered before January 1988 that have not changed ownership, documented vessels, canoes, kayaks, inflatable vessels, implements of husbandry, and special mobile equipment are exempt.
Application for Title
Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration (Form 411007) is made to any County Treasurer for vehicles less than 10,000 lbs. GVW. Title fee: $35.00. A $20.00 security interest recording fee is charged if there is a lien. Make checks payable to the County Treasurer processing the transaction.
Allow 15 days for title processing. Quick title service is not available in Iowa.
Applications may be submitted electronically via web-based services offered by authorized ERT service providers. Contact the Iowa Automobile Dealers Association for further information.
Vessels, OHVs & Snowmobiles (IDNR)
Vessels, OHVs, and snowmobiles are titled by the Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) through the County Recorder. Application (DNR 542-8067) is submitted with a title fee of $13.50 plus $13.50 if there is a lien. A $2.00 mailing fee may apply. Make checks payable to the County Recorder.
An Affidavit for Unregistered or Untitled OHVs, Snowmobiles or Vessels (DNR 542-8074) completed by an Iowa conservation officer, police officer, sheriff, or state patrol officer is required if the vehicle/vessel has not been previously titled or registered.
Manufactured Homes
One title is issued for manufactured homes regardless of the number of units. Application must be made to the County Treasurer of the county where the home is located. If the home is converted to real estate by being placed on a permanent foundation, title may be surrendered for cancellation.
Electronic Signatures
All forms, applications, or documents that require an ink signature may also be signed electronically. An electronic signature may be used on an Odometer Disclosure Statement (411077) when accompanied by an MCO/MSO. An ink signature is required on a physical title document. Electronic notarization is permissible if the notary is physically present.
Proof of Ownership
New Vehicles
Manufacturer's Statement of Origin (MSO).
Used Vehicles
Certificate of Title.
Non-Title Issuing Jurisdiction
Last issued registration certificate.
Government Surplus Vehicles
U.S. Government Certificate to Obtain Title (SF97-1) or Certificate of Sale of Seized Property (IRS Form 2435). A Military Vehicle Certification of Compliance (411187) is required for wheeled military vehicles.
Foreign Vehicles
Foreign ownership documents plus Federal Air Pollution Regulations Declaration (EPA 3520-1), Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Declaration (NHTSA HS-7), and Entry Summary (CBP 7501). Certified English translation required on documents issued in a foreign language.
Note: A bill of sale or equivalent documentation is required on all transfers to establish purchase price. Bill of sale is on Iowa titles issued after September 2023. A notarized Bill of Sale may be used. Surrender of proof of ownership is required. Iowa provides data to and inquiries NMVTIS prior to issuing titles.
Special Titles
Bonded Title
When applicant cannot provide a title from the seller, the VIN is incorrect, the vehicle was junked and is 25+ years old, or there is an unreleased lien. Bond must equal 1½ times the current value. Bond may be returned at the end of three years. Application for Registration and Bonded Certificate of Title (411008) must be completed online. If value is $1,000 or less and vehicle is 12+ model years old, a title may be issued without bond upon Departmental approval.
Salvage Vehicle
A motor vehicle damaged in excess of 70% of its fair market value or transferred to an insurer as a result of a damage or theft settlement. An insurer, rebuilder, or dealer must obtain a salvage certificate of title within 30 days. A $25.00 salvage title fee applies. Heavy trucks with a GVWR of 30,000 lbs. or more are issued a Salvage Title and then immediately a Rebuilt Title without a Salvage/Theft Exam.
Rebuilt Vehicle
A wrecked or salvage vehicle that has been repaired must be examined by certified law enforcement prior to registration. An Affidavit of Salvage Vehicle Repairs must be completed electronically. A $53.00 salvage theft examination fee applies. Title is issued bearing designation "Rebuilt-IA." If repair estimates are less than $3,000, a regular title is issued without a designation.
Junk Vehicle
An Application for Junking Certificate (411123) must be submitted within 30 days with the vehicle title, registration, and plates. Title may be reinstated within 14 days of the first Junking Certificate. No further titling is allowed unless the vehicle qualifies as an antique and a title is issued through the Bonded Title process.
Replacement & Corrected Titles
Application for Replacement of Iowa Certificate of Title (411033) must be made to a County Treasurer. All owners must sign the application. A 5-day waiting period applies (except for lienholders or applicants who surrendered the original title). Title fee: $35.00. Replacement title will be clearly marked "Replacement."
Title Designations
Designations are shown in the upper right corner of the Iowa title. Out-of-state brands are forwarded with the two-letter state abbreviation. Designations issued: Fire, Flood, Manufacturer/Lemon Buy Back, Prior Salvage, Rebuilt, Replacement, Salvage, Theft, Vandalism. Odometer designations (Actual Miles, Not Actual Miles, Exceeds Mechanical Limits) are printed with the odometer reading.
Odometer Disclosure
Required on transfer. Vehicles with a model year of 2010 or older, trailers, vehicles without odometer devices, and trucks over 16,000 lbs. GVWR are exempt. An Odometer Disclosure Statement (411077) must accompany non-conforming titles.
VIN / HIN Inspection
Required on homebuilt vehicles and at the request of the County Treasurer or other government agency. A VIN may be assigned by the Bureau of Investigation & Identity Protection for vehicles with destroyed, removed, or obliterated VINs, specially constructed vehicles, reconstructed vehicles, street rods, and replica vehicles.
Lien Law
Security interest is entered on the application for title and submitted with the title fee and security interest recording fee ($20.00). If the vehicle has an existing Iowa title, an Application for Notation of a Security Interest (411046) must be submitted with the existing title, title fee, and security interest recording fee. Up to three security interests may be perfected and shown on the Iowa title. Lien is perfected as of the date of delivery.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Security Interest Recording Fee (motor vehicles) | $20.00 |
| Lien Fee (vessels, OHVs, snowmobiles — IDNR) | $13.50 |
Lien Expiration
Liens on vehicles and vessels are valid until a release is submitted. There is no automatic expiration.
Responsible Party for Filing
Iowa dealers are responsible for filing liens on vehicles purchased through the dealership. Out-of-state dealers should perfect the lien; however, lienholders are ultimately responsible. Owners are responsible for filing liens on private party sales.
Assignment of Lien
The secured party must note "Assigned to (name of assignee)" in the cancellation section along with name, signature, and date. An Application for Notation of a Security Interest (411046) must be signed by the assignee and submitted with the assigned title, title fee, and $20.00 security interest recording fee to the County Treasurer where the title was issued.
Artisan / Storage Lien
Any person who renders a service or furnishes material with the consent of the owner has a lien for agreed or reasonable charges while the property is lawfully in their possession. If charges are unpaid, the lienholder may proceed with a public auction 10 days after providing written notice to the owner and posting notices in three public locations. An Affidavit of Sale to Satisfy Artisan's Lien (411358) is used for motor vehicles; DNR 542-0977 for vessels, OHVs, and snowmobiles.
Release of Lien
Lienholder may cancel the security interest on the face of the title or note the cancellation on a separate notarized release. The title and release may be submitted to any County Treasurer. A secured party who fails to release their security interest within 15 days after written request will forfeit $25.00 to the person making the payment. (Does not apply to vessels, snowmobiles, or OHVs.)
The lienholder may note the cancellation on a Cancellation of Security Interest (411168) and submit to the County Treasurer in lieu of the title. ELTs are released electronically.
Lien Records on File
In the office of the County Treasurer in the county where the vehicle is titled.
Title on Which a Lien is Shown
Held electronically or mailed to the secured party.
Electronic Lien & Title (ELT) Program
Lenders who choose to participate in the ELT Program must establish a service relationship with an authorized ELT provider for transmission of all vehicle and title data. The lender may enroll or modify an existing account by submitting an Electronic Lien and Title (ELT) Lender Application (411188).
UCC Filings (Exempt Vehicles)
Liens on vehicles that are exempt from titling are filed through the Iowa Secretary of State, Business Services, 321 E 12th Street, First Floor, Des Moines, IA 50319. Phone: 515.281.5204. Email: [email protected]. Online filing is available.
Transfer of Title
Transfer is accomplished by assignment of title. Title must be applied for within 30 days of purchase or establishing residency in Iowa to avoid a $10.00 penalty. (Penalty does not apply to vessels, snowmobiles, or OHVs.) A vehicle seller is not liable for any misuse of the vehicle following transfer if an Affidavit of Sale of Vehicle and Delivery of Title (411107) is filed with any County Treasurer.
Transfer Deadline & Penalty
- •Motor vehicles: Apply for title within 30 days of purchase or establishing Iowa residency. $10.00 penalty applies after 30 days.
- •Vessels, OHVs, snowmobiles: No penalty for late title application.
- •Foreign title with no assignment space: If application is submitted more than 30 days after the vehicle entered Iowa, registration fee must also be paid.
Add / Remove a Party
The same procedures are followed as any other transfer. When there is an electronic lien, a paper title must be printed to add/remove a name. New plates are not required; however, registration must match the title.
Damage Disclosure Statement
Damage disclosure is required upon transfer of any vehicle seven model years old or newer. A Damage Disclosure Statement (411108) must be provided to the purchaser at or before the time of sale. Exempt: motor trucks and truck tractors with a GVWR of 16,000 lbs. or more, motorcycles, motorized bicycles, special mobile equipment, and new motor vehicles with 1,000 miles or less (unless damage exceeds 70% of fair market value).
Joint Ownership
Up to three owners may be listed on an Iowa title (no limit for vessel, snowmobile, or OHV titles). If names are joined by "and," all owner signatures are required. If names are joined by "or," only one signature is required. In all other cases, all signatures are required.
Notarization
Not required for title transfer in Iowa.
Transfer Upon Death of an Owner
When an estate is in probate, the title application must be supported by letters of appointment of the legal representative and the vehicle title assigned by the representative. If the estate is not probated, the application must be supported by the vehicle title in the deceased person's name, a copy of the death certificate or other proof of death, and a Certification of Death Intestate for Vehicle Transfer (411088) or a Certification of Death Testate (411083) if there is no Will.
If ownership is transferred to a surviving spouse, title fees are waived and any available registration fees may be transferred. A Small Estate Affidavit may be accepted as a valid ownership document. Transfer must be made within one year of death.
Transfer on Death (TOD)
There is no procedure for adding a beneficiary to an Iowa title for transfer upon death.
Power of Attorney
A notarized Power of Attorney Authorization (411021) may be accepted in lieu of the owner's signature on a motor vehicle transaction. A Secure Power of Attorney is required when title is not present and odometer disclosure is required. Two parties may not be placed on a POA; each party must present a separate POA. For vessels, OHVs, and snowmobiles, use DNR 542-0980.
Limited Assignment Space
A new title is required if the reassignment area of the title has been used. If a foreign state allows reassignment forms, a secure assignment or reassignment form issued by that state may be accepted. If an out-of-state vehicle was not obtained from a dealer, the last person to whom the out-of-state title was assigned must obtain a title in the state of residence and assign to the Iowa purchaser.
Repossession
Upon default in the terms of a security agreement, the secured party must give the debtor written notice of the right to cure the default prior to repossessing the vehicle. Twenty days after the notice of right to cure was sent, the secured party may repossess the vehicle without judicial process, if it proceeds without a breach of the peace.
Requirements
- •Lienholder is not required to obtain a Repo Title prior to transferring to a new purchaser; however, the new purchaser must take title in their name.
- •An Affidavit of Foreclosure Sale (411067) must be submitted with an application for title, the existing title, and title fee. Lien should not be canceled.
- •Limited use plates may be used to dispose of repossessed vehicles.
New Vehicles Repossessed by Bank or Credit Union
If new vehicles are repossessed by a bank or credit union, they may be resold as new. The MSO cannot be reassigned; foreclosure sale affidavits must be used.
Out-of-State Repossessors
For out-of-state repossessors, a foreign title and foreclosure/repossession form indicating the state where the secured party is located are required. Lien should not be canceled.
Registration
Motor vehicles, trailers, vessels, OHVs, snowmobiles, and aircraft must be registered, unless exempt. Manufactured homes, implements of husbandry, special mobile equipment, inflatable vessels seven feet or less with no motor or sail, canoes and kayaks 13 feet or less with no motor or sail, and government-owned vessels/OHVs/snowmobiles used for enforcement, search and rescue, official research, or as farm implements are exempt.
Application for Registration
May be made to any County Treasurer for vehicles less than 10,000 lbs. GVW. Application for vehicles 10,000 lbs. GVW or more may be made to the DOT or any County Treasurer. Registration must be carried in the vehicle. New residents must register their vehicles/vessels within 30 days of establishing residency.
Vessels, OHVs, and snowmobiles are registered with the Department of Natural Resources through the County Recorder in county of residence or county where the vessel will be primarily used.
Expiration
Renewal
Reminders are sent to registered vehicle owners. Some counties send reminders for vessels, snowmobiles, and OHVs. Vehicle renewal must be made in county of residence in person, by mail, or online. Vessels may be renewed with any County Recorder. Online renewal is available for OHVs and snowmobiles (administrative fee applies). A $1.00 mailing fee applies per registration; $2.00 for vessels, OHVs, and snowmobiles renewed through the County Recorder. Credit card payments incur a transaction fee.
Late Registration Penalty
Annual registration fees become delinquent and penalties accrue the first of the month following the purchase of a vehicle and 30 days following the date a vehicle is brought into Iowa. Penalty of 5.0% of the registration fee is due per month overdue, rounded to the nearest dollar, with a minimum penalty of $5.00 per vehicle.
If a vehicle registration is delinquent for 24 months or more, a penalty of 150% of the current annual registration fee is assessed in addition to the current annual registration fee.
There is a $5.00 penalty fee for late registration of vessels, snowmobiles, and OHVs. Registration penalties are waived for military members if proof of active duty is provided.
Special Permits
| Permit Type | Validity | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 45-Day Registration Applied For Card (dealer-issued, vehicle/OHV) | 45 days | Included |
| 35-Day Registration Applied For Card (vessels sold through registered dealer) | 35 days | Included |
| 30-Day Temporary Permit (County Treasurer, private sales) | 30 days | $25.00 |
| 30-Day Transit Plates (nonresidents, used vehicles) | 30 days | $3.00 |
| 30-Day Transit Plates (nonresidents, new vehicles) | 30 days | $10.00 |
| In-Transit Permits (dealer-issued, nonresidents & dealer purchases) | 15 days | $2.00 |
Plates
Two plates issued; one plate for trailers, motorcycles, motorized bicycles, autocycles, semitrailers, and truck tractors. Plates remain with owner and must be surrendered if not transferred to a replacement vehicle within 30 days. A Plate Cancellation (411122) is used to return registration plates for vehicles sold, junked, or moved out of state.
Nonresidents
Nonresident vehicles properly registered in home state may be operated in Iowa without registering in Iowa to the extent that like exemptions and privileges are granted to Iowa residents, unless operating for hire or carrying on business in Iowa. Nonresidents may use their vessels on Iowa waters up to 60 nonconsecutive days per year if vessel displays registration from another state.
Military Registration
Nonresident members of the armed forces are not required to register their vehicles in Iowa if properly registered in home state. One set of Medal of Honor or disabled veteran plates are issued at no charge. Various military specialty plates available at no charge or reduced fees. Registration penalties are waived for military members placed on active duty.
Dealer Plates
May be used for demonstration, delivery, and personal use if the vehicle is continuously offered for sale. Fee: $40.00 each for a 2-year period; $750.00 for haul and tow plates. Limited Use Dealer Plates may be obtained by insurers selling recovered stolen vehicles or vehicles acquired as a result of a damage settlement, or for repossessed vehicles.
Taxes
Fee for New Registration (Motor Vehicles)
$10.00 + 5.0% of vehicle purchase/lease price
Imposed on vehicles subject to registration in lieu of sales tax. Fee is due at time of registration and payable to the County Treasurer. Dealers are not required to collect the fee.
Trade-In Credit
Credit is allowed for trade-in of a vehicle normally sold in the regular course of the retailer's business or between persons who are not retailers. The person listed on the title and registration of the newly acquired vehicle must be the same person listed on the title and registration of the traded vehicle.
Out-of-State Credit
Credit is allowed for taxes paid to another state.
Exemptions from Fee for New Registration
- •Nonresidents purchasing a vehicle for registration in home state (with purchase of a 30-day Transit Plate or In-transit Permit)
- •New residents if vehicle was purchased for use in their previous state of residence
- •Vehicles delivered to a resident Native American on a reservation
- •Sales to exempt entities
- •Vehicles transferred as a gift
- •Vehicles registered under IRP accruing at least 25% of their mileage outside Iowa and registered for a gross weight of 13 tons or more
Sales / Use Tax (IDNR Vehicles & Others)
6.0% state rate + local option taxes
Levied on vessels, OHVs, snowmobiles, aircraft, and manufactured homes sold as tangible personal property. Also applies to vehicles subject only to titling. There is an online sales tax rate lookup available.
Manufactured Homes
Mobile and manufactured homes sold as tangible personal property (rather than real property) are subject to use tax on 20% of the purchase price.
Vessel, OHV & Snowmobile Sales
Taxable if delivery is taken in Iowa or if purchased out of state for use in Iowa. The sale of farm machinery and equipment, including OHVs used exclusively in agricultural production, are exempt.
Aircraft
Aircraft are exempt from local option sales tax. Aircraft are also exempt if registered out of state.
Other Exemptions
Sales to Native Americans where delivery occurs on the reservation are exempt. An Iowa Sales/Use/Excise Tax Exemption Certificate (31-014) is used when claiming an exemption. Retailers without physical or economic nexus in Iowa who generate $100,000 or more in gross revenue from sales into Iowa must collect and remit tax.
Personal Property Tax (Manufactured Homes)
Manufactured homes located outside mobile home parks and manufactured home communities are taxed as real estate. A $0.20 per square foot tax is imposed on homes located in a mobile home park or manufactured home community. The annual tax is 90% for the 6th–9th years after year of manufacture; 80% for homes 10 or more years after the year of manufacture. Tax is paid to the County Treasurer. A Mobile Home Tax Clearance (411129) is required to transfer a manufactured home.
Federal Heavy Vehicle Use Tax
A receipted Heavy Highway Vehicle Use Tax Return (Form 2290, Schedule 1) must be presented when registering a motor vehicle with a gross weight of 55,000 lbs. or more. If the vehicle is registered within 60 days of purchase date, a bill of sale or other evidence of a title transfer may be used in lieu of the 2290 Form.
Registration / Plate Fees
Important Notes
- •Registration fees are paid to the County Treasurer's office in the county where the vehicle owner resides.
- •Fees are governed by Iowa Code sections 321.109 and 321.115 through 321.124.
- •Annual registration runs on a birthday-to-birthday cycle for most passenger vehicles.
Passenger Vehicles, Multipurpose Vehicles (1993+) & Trucks 10K or Less (2010+)
Fee = Weight Fee + Value Fee. Weight fee is $0.40 per 100 lbs. Value fee is based on list price and vehicle age:
| Vehicle Age | Value Fee |
|---|---|
| 1–7 years old | 1% of list price |
| 8–9 years old | 0.75% of list price |
| 10–11 years old | 0.5% of list price |
| 12+ years old | $50.00 flat |
Low-speed vehicles also use this formula. Weight is the shipping weight of the vehicle.
Electric Vehicle Supplemental Fees
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) | $130.00 |
| Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) | $65.00 |
| Battery Electric Motorcycle (BEV) | $65.00 |
| Plug-in Hybrid Electric Motorcycle (PHEV) | $33.00 |
EV/PHEV supplemental fees are in addition to standard registration fees.
Motorcycles
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| 1–5 years old | $20.00 |
| 6+ years old | $10.00 |
Autocycles
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| 1–5 years old | $20.00 |
| 6+ years old | $10.00 |
Other Vehicle Types
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Moped | $7.00 |
| Ambulance | $50.00 |
| Hearse | $50.00 |
| Church Bus | $25.00 |
| Private School Bus | No fee (state-issued) |
| Transit Bus | No fee (state-issued) |
| Multipurpose Vehicle (1992 & older) | $55.00 |
| MPV 1992 & older — Specially Equipped | $60.00 |
| Motorsport / Recreational Vehicle | $400.00 |
Antique Vehicles (25+ Years Old)
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Purchased / transferred on or after Jan 1, 2009 | $50.00 |
| Titled / registered prior to Jan 1, 2009 | $25.00 |
Antique vehicle plates are available for vehicles 25 model years old or older.
Motor Homes
| Class | List Price | Age | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A | $80,000 & over | 1–5 yrs | $400.00 |
| Class A | $80,000 & over | 6+ yrs | $300.00 |
| Class A | $40,000–$79,999 | 1–5 yrs | $200.00 |
| Class A | $40,000–$79,999 | 6+ yrs | $150.00 |
| Class A | $20,000–$39,999 | 1–5 yrs | $140.00 |
| Class A | $20,000–$39,999 | 6+ yrs | $105.00 |
| Class A | Less than $20,000 | 1–5 yrs | $120.00 |
| Class A | Less than $20,000 | 6+ yrs | $85.00 |
| Class B (Van type) | All prices | 1–5 yrs | $90.00 |
| Class B (Van type) | All prices | 6+ yrs | $65.00 |
| Class C | All prices | 1–5 yrs | $110.00 |
| Class C | All prices | 6+ yrs | $80.00 |
Trailers
| Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Regular Trailer (under 2,000 lbs) | $20.00 |
| Semi-Trailer / 5th Wheel / Gooseneck (over 2,000 lbs) | $30.00 |
Travel Trailers
| Age | Fee Calculation |
|---|---|
| 1–6 years old | $0.30 per sq. ft. of floor space (rounded to nearest whole dollar) |
| 7+ years old | 75% of original fee |
Trucks, Tractors & Buses
Fees for trucks, truck tractors, special trucks, buses, and business trade trucks are based on weight and use schedules published by the Iowa DOT. Click below to view the official fee charts:
Iowa Tax & Tags — Full Fee Schedule
Official registration fees by vehicle type from the Iowa DOT
Official Forms & Resources
Links to official Iowa DOT and Iowa DNR forms commonly required for vehicle titling, registration, and watercraft transactions. Always verify you have the most current version before submitting.
Iowa Department of Transportation — Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd.
Ankeny, IA 50021
Note: Most Iowa vehicle transactions are processed through your county treasurer's office, not directly with the Iowa DOT. Use the County Treasurer Locator link below to find your local office.
Key Forms
| Form | Description |
|---|---|
| Form 411007 | Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration |
| Form 411008 | Damage Disclosure Statement |
| Form 411021 | Power of Attorney for a Motor Vehicle, Trailer, or Watercraft |
| Form 411033 | Application for Replacement of Iowa Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle |
| Form 411041 | Application for Salvage Certificate of Title |
| Form 411047 | Claim for Refund |
| Form 411057 | Motor Home Certification |
| Form 411077 | Odometer Disclosure Statement |
| Form 411083 | Affidavit of Death Testate (used when a death has occurred and there is a will, but did not go through probate) |
| Form 411088 | Affidavit of Death Intestate (used for transferring motor vehicle when the decedent does not have a will) |
| Form 411097 | Certification of Correction |
| Form 411168 | Lien Notation / Lien Release on Certificate of Title |
| Form 411179 | Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration for a Leased Vehicle |
| Form 411219 | Affidavit of Correction |
| Form 35-050 | Leased Vehicle Worksheet |
| Form 542-8067 | Application for Boats, Snowmobiles, ATVs and ORVs |
| Lost in Mail Form | Lost in Mail Form (used by an applicant to certify that a vehicle document sent by the County Treasurer through the United States Postal Service was not received) |
Helpful Links
Iowa DOT — Motor Vehicle Division
Official titling, registration, and licensing information
Iowa DOT — All MVD Forms
Complete library of Iowa motor vehicle forms
Iowa DOT — Fee Schedule
Official registration fee schedule by vehicle type
Iowa DOT — County Treasurer Locator
Find your county treasurer's office for in-person transactions
Iowa DOT — Online Services (myMVD)
Renew registration, check title status, request duplicates
Iowa Dept. of Revenue — Use Tax Info
Sales and use tax rates, exemptions, and guidance for vehicle purchases
Iowa DNR — Watercraft Registration
Boat and watercraft registration with Iowa DNR
Iowa DOT — Salvage & Rebuilt Titles
Rules for salvage, rebuilt, and flood-damaged vehicles
Need Help with Iowa Titling?
Illinois Title Services processes Iowa titles for consumers and dealerships. We handle the paperwork so you don't have to.
Contact UsGeneral Information
Financial Responsibility Laws
Iowa requires all motor vehicles operated on public roads to be covered by liability insurance meeting the following minimums (Iowa Code § 321A.1):
| Coverage | Minimum |
|---|---|
| Bodily Injury / Person | $20,000 |
| Bodily Injury / Accident | $40,000 |
| Property Damage | $15,000 |
Proof of insurance must be carried in the vehicle at all times and presented upon request by law enforcement. Failure to maintain coverage may result in registration suspension and civil penalties. Iowa participates in an electronic insurance verification system.
Leased Vehicles
Leased vehicles are titled in the name of the lessor (leasing company). The lessee's name and address are listed on the title as the registrant. Registration is issued in the county of the lessee's legal residence.
Iowa use tax is due on the total lease payments over the life of the lease, not on the purchase price of the vehicle. The lessor collects and remits use tax on each lease payment. If the lessor paid Iowa use tax at the time of purchase, a credit may be available.
A copy of the lease agreement should be maintained in the vehicle. If a third party signs on behalf of the lessor or lessee, a Power of Attorney (Form 411021) is required.
Rental Vehicles
Vehicles rented for periods of 60 days or less are subject to Iowa's vehicle rental excise tax in addition to sales/use tax. Rental companies must register with the Iowa Department of Revenue and collect applicable taxes on each rental transaction.
Vehicles purchased exclusively for rental fleet use may qualify for an exemption from Iowa use tax at the time of purchase. Contact the Iowa Department of Revenue for eligibility requirements.
Motor Vehicle Safety Inspection
Not required in Iowa. There is no state-mandated periodic safety inspection program for privately-owned vehicles.
Emissions Inspection
Not required in Iowa. There is no state-mandated emissions testing program for registration or renewal.
Out-of-State Purchases & Dealer Sales
Iowa residents who purchase a vehicle from an out-of-state dealer or private party must title and register the vehicle in Iowa within 30 days of the purchase date. Iowa use tax is due on the purchase price if Iowa sales tax was not collected at the time of sale.
Iowa-licensed dealers issue a 7-day temporary registration to allow the buyer to operate the vehicle while the title is being processed. Out-of-state dealers do not issue Iowa temp tags — the buyer must obtain a transit permit from the county treasurer if needed.
Credit is allowed for sales or use tax paid to another state on the same vehicle, up to the Iowa rate. Documentation of tax paid (e.g., out-of-state title showing tax paid, or a dealer receipt) must be provided to the county treasurer.
Records
Vehicle title and registration records are maintained by the Iowa Department of Transportation, Motor Vehicle Division. Record requests must comply with the federal Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA). Contact the Iowa DOT or your county treasurer for record request procedures.
Enforcement
Iowa Department of Public Safety / Iowa State Patrol, 215 E. 7th St., Des Moines, IA 50319, 515.725.6090. Operating an unregistered vehicle or without insurance is subject to fines, civil penalties, and registration suspension.
Iowa DOT — Motor Vehicle Division
Address:
6310 SE Convenience Blvd.
Ankeny, IA 50021
Most Iowa vehicle transactions — including title applications, registration renewals, and lien notations — are processed through your county treasurer's office, not directly with the Iowa DOT. Use the County Treasurer Locator to find your local office.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Fees, requirements, and procedures may change. Always verify current information with the Iowa Department of Transportation, your county treasurer's office, or the Iowa Department of Revenue — or contact Illinois Title Services for professional assistance.