How to Renew Car Registration in Iowa

Every year after obtaining a new car registration, you must complete the Iowa car registration renewal process. It proves that you are complying with the state regulations and have paid all necessary taxes on your vehicle.

The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) will typically send you a reminder notice several weeks before your credentials are scheduled to expire. You can then use this document to complete your DMV registration renewal.

When you renew, you will receive a new registration document as well as a sticker (tag) to display on the vehicle. Every driver gets a window of time to renew his or her registration. Failure to apply for an Iowa tag renewal within this time may result in penalty fees. For tips and instructions on renewing vehicle registration, review our free guide.

When to Perform a Car Registration Renewal in Iowa

Motorists have a three-month window to renew their registration and license plates. This includes the month the registration is expiring as well as the month before and the month after.

While there are some exemptions reserved for special circumstances, motorists who do not renew their DMV car registration renewal in Iowa in time will be subject to a penalty fee. This fee is five percent of the annual renewal fee and increases monthly.

If you are a military service member stationed out of state or will not be using your vehicle for a while, you can place it in storage and obtain a refund on your registration. However, you must surrender your plates until you return.

Note: If you lose your car registration close to its expiration date, it may be best to renew it instead of ordering a duplicate document.

Applying for an Iowa Car Registration Renewal

Depending on the state in which you live, you may be able to renew your registration online, by mail or in person. Before selecting a method, it is best to perform an IA car reg check to make sure you are eligible for a renewal.

You can do so by checking the renewal notice you received in the mail or contacting your local county treasury office. Currently, you cannot your check vehicle registration status online.

Once you get confirmation through the car registration check, you can use one of the renewal methods available in your county. To renew registration online, you must access Iowa’s renewal website and provide information listed on your renewal notice. This is generally the quickest way to renew your credentials.

You can also obtain a car registration renewal in Iowa by mailing in your renewal notice with the proper payment or visiting your local county treasurer office in person.

Download our free guide for helpful information and tips on renewing vehicle registration using the methods mentioned above.