Transferring an Out-of-State License to Iowa

If you've recently moved to Iowa and hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you'll need to transfer your license through the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT). The process is straightforward but requires specific documentation and a visit to a driver's license issuance location.

Who Needs to Transfer Their License?

Any new Iowa resident with an out-of-state license must transfer it within 30 days of establishing residency. Residency is generally established once you have secured housing, registered to vote, enrolled children in school, or started employment in Iowa.

What You Need to Bring

When visiting a driver’s license issuance location, bring the following:

• Your current, valid out-of-state driver's license
• Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport or certified birth certificate)
• Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2)
• Two documents proving Iowa residency (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)
• Proof of lawful status if not a U.S. citizen

For those interested in obtaining a REAL ID, additional documentation is needed. Visit What You Need to Know About Iowa REAL ID for a full checklist.

Testing Requirements

In most cases, if your out-of-state license is valid and has not expired for more than one year, you won't need to take a written or driving test. However, a vision test is mandatory for all applicants. If your license is expired by over a year, you may be required to take both knowledge and skills tests.

You can prepare with resources like Preparing for the Iowa Driver's License Test if testing is necessary.

License Transfer for Teen Drivers

Teen drivers under 18 transferring an out-of-state license will be subject to Iowa’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system. Depending on their age and driving experience, they may be issued an instruction permit or intermediate license. Learn more in Iowa's Graduated Driver Licensing System Explained.

Fees

The fee for transferring your license varies depending on its duration and type. Generally, expect to pay $4 per year the license is valid. Refer to What You Need to Know About Iowa DMV Fees for detailed pricing.

Where to Go

Transfers must be completed in person at a driver's license service center. You can find locations and schedule an appointment via Finding DMV Offices in Iowa or Scheduling Appointments at Iowa DMV Offices.

Special Cases

• Military personnel may have different requirements and should contact the Iowa DOT for guidance.
• Commercial drivers (CDL holders) must comply with federal and state requirements for transferring a CDL. See How to Obtain a CDL in Iowa for more information.

After You Transfer

Once you receive your Iowa license, your previous out-of-state license will be invalidated. If you own a vehicle, you must also register it in Iowa within 30 days.