How To Do an Iowa DMV Change of Address

If you’re planning on moving to, from, or within the state of Iowa then you’re going to want to make sure that you know exactly what’s expected of you in terms of DMV paperwork. Like all states, you will be required to get your Iowa DMV Change of Address forms in order before you can truly settle in as a resident—including your address on your driver’s license and your vehicle’s registration, if applicable.

It’s good practice to take care of all of your paperwork as early as possible, especially if you are going to be driving in the state or want to start applying for jobs. And since Iowa requires that you file your change of address paperwork within 90 days of establishing residency in the state and update your vehicle registration within 30 days of establishing residency, there really isn’t a ton of time to waste.

Not sure where you should start? That’s where we come in. We’ve put together all of the information that you’ll need to complete your Iowa DMV change of address and vehicle registration forms, so read through the information below and then make your way to an Iowa Motor Vehicle Division office to get started.

If You’re Moving to Iowa from Another State

Will you need to get a new driver’s license if moving to Iowa from another state?

How do you get one?

To get an Iowa driver’s license as a formerly out-of-state resident you will have to go to an Iowa Motor Vehicles Division office in person, since unfortunately you can’t do an Iowa DMV change of address online or over the phone.

Per the rules in most states, expect that an Iowa driver’s license for new residents to the state are only available to those who do not have any outstanding suspensions, revocations, or cancellations on their out of state driver’s license and who have not been previously deemed unfit or unsafe to drive by the IA DMV or an outside court.

You will need to bring along the following documentation when you visit the IA DMV:

    • Proof of identity via your birth certificate or passport
    • Proof of Iowa residency
    • Your social security card

    See what documents are accepted here.

    Note that if your name on your provided proof of identity does not match the name on your current driver’s license you will also have to bring along proof of name change, such as your marriage license, divorce decree, or a court order for a legal name change.

    Is there a fee?

    Yes. The fee for a standard operator non-commercial Iowa driver’s license is $4 upon purchase and $4 a year after that. Visit the fees page for more information.

    Does an Iowa DMV change of address require a driving test?

    No, just a vision test, provided you have a current and valid out-of-state driver’s license.

    How long do you have to get an Iowa driver’s license or ID card?

    Iowa requires you to get your DMV change of address handled within 90 days of establishing residency. So how do you know if you’re officially a resident? Head to the IA DMV within 90 days if you plan to:

      • Live in Iowa at least 7 months out of the year
      • Register to vote in Iowa
      • Work in Iowa
      • Run a business out of Iowa

      How long do you have to update your vehicle’s registration?

      You have until 30 days after establishing residency.

      How do you update your vehicle’s registration as a new resident of Iowa?

      You’ll need to head to an IA DMV office in person to update your vehicle’s registration, however you may be able to get online or mail accommodation by contacting your local Iowa county treasurer’s office. Make sure to have the following required documents:

        • Proof of title
        • Completed Application for Certificate of Title and/or Registration (Form 411007)

        You may also be required to do an emissions test.

        What is the registration fee?

        The fee to register a standard non-commercial vehicle in Iowa varies depending on a number of factors. To estimate your fees, head here and then hold your cursor over “Tools” and click “Dealer Inquiry.” From there, click “Fee Estimator” in the provided menu and fill out the required information.

        If You’re Moving Within Iowa

        You have 30 days after your move to update your Iowa driver’s license with your new address when moving within the state (and no, changing your address with the post office doesn’t cut it).

        To change your address, visit any Iowa driver’s license service center and bring your current driver’s license. Have your new and old address handy as well.

        How much does an Iowa change of address cost?

        An update to your Iowa address with the DMV is free, but you’ll need to pay $10 if you want a replacement driver’s license with your new address.

        What information do you need to provide to update your address on your driver’s license?

        To change your address on your Iowa driver’s license or identification card, you will only need to provide your current driver’s license. Your new address will be electronically verified at the service center.

        What information do you need to provide to update your vehicle registration?

        Just your driver’s license and your old and new address.

        You’ll need to go in person to an Iowa county treasurer’s office to update your registration information. Do keep in mind that you will need to complete this within just 10 days of your move, so time is of the essence.

        Will Iowa issue you a new driver’s license if you’re moving within the state?

        Not unless you want one.

        If You’re Moving From Iowa to Another State

        Do you need to notify the Iowa Motor Vehicles Division if you’re moving to another state without a registered car?

        Nope. When you receive a driver’s license in your new state of residency Iowa will automatically cancel your IA driver’s license.

        Do you need to notify the Iowa Motor Vehicles Division if you’re moving to another state with your registered vehicle?

        Do you need to return your Iowa license plates?

        While not required, you can choose to return them if you please.

        Have any questions?

        If you have any questions about changing your address on your driver’s license and/or vehicle’s registration when moving to, from, or within the state of Iowa, contact the Iowa Motor Vehicles Division directly by calling (515) 239-1101. The Iowa DMV is available Monday through Friday 8am to 4:30pm and you are encouraged to have your driver’s license number and license plate number (if applicable) ready when you call.

        If you’d rather reach out by message, you can do so here, though note that the response time is roughly 2-3 days. You can also contact the department by mail by sending a letter to Iowa DOT, 800 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50010.

        Need to hire movers for your move to, from, or within the state of Iowa?

        We can help you out with that! Use Moving.com to quickly and easily search for reputable interstate movers in your area. Because moving out of state can be costly, we recommend reaching out to at least three different interstate moving companies to get quotes so that you can ensure you are getting the best price possible. Use our moving cost calculator to get an estimate on how much your Iowa move will cost.