FAQs
Why did the Iowa DOT make this change?
The existing “over-the-counter” process does not provide an opportunity prior to issuance to determine if an individual has a DL(s)/ID(s) in other names or has provided a non-existent address.
With central issuance, an individual’s photo is compared to others on file before a DL/ID is issued. If there is a “hit” that indicates the individual has a DL(s)/ID(s) in another identity(ies), an Iowa DOT motor vehicle enforcement investigator will review the photos and application to determine if the DL/ID should be produced or if there is a potential problem. Because the DL/ID will be mailed to the address given, an opportunity for a person to provide a nonexistent address will be eliminated.
With central issuance, an individual’s photo is compared to others on file before a DL/ID is issued. If there is a “hit” that indicates the individual has a DL(s)/ID(s) in another identity(ies), an Iowa DOT motor vehicle enforcement investigator will review the photos and application to determine if the DL/ID should be produced or if there is a potential problem. Because the DL/ID will be mailed to the address given, an opportunity for a person to provide a nonexistent address will be eliminated.
When will the central issuance process begin?
The transition from the over-the-counter to central issuance process is currently scheduled for early in 2010.
Where will the cards be produced and shipped from to Iowans?
Driver’s license and identification cards will be produced at a facility in the United States by an experienced issuance firm that has secure facilities and processes, and employs persons that have undergone rigorous background checks.
What will change for Iowans with this new central issuance program?
The only change is that an individual will leave the DL station with their existing DL/ID (with holes punched in the card) and a temporary permit valid for 30 days (or just the 30-day temporary permit if they do not already have a DL or ID), and then receive their new DL/ID by U.S. mail within 10 business days. Everything else remains the same, including the fee.
What will the temporary permit look like?
The document will be made of heavy card stock and include a few built-in security features, a photograph, and name and address of the individual - the same information as on any driver’s license.
Does central issuance affect both driver’s licenses and identification cards?
Yes. It affects all driver’s licenses and identification cards.
How much more will this cost?
There is no increased cost to individuals.My driver’s license or identification card is good for a few more years. Do I need to do anything now?
No.How will the driver’s license or identification card be mailed so that it is not obvious there is a card inside and the card isn’t visible from the outside?
The card will be mailed in a regular envelope through the U.S. Postal Service, similar to the way a credit card is mailed. Prior to going to the U.S. Postal Service, it will go to a facility where it will be mixed with other general mail for delivery to the post office.How long will it take to get my driver’s license or identification card in the mail?
Your driver’s license or identification card should be received within 10 business days. If the card cannot be delivered by the U.S. Postal Service to the address you provided, it will not be forwarded; it will be returned to the Iowa DOT. Contact the toll-free number listed on your temporary permit, if your card is not received within 10 business days.Do I have to pay extra for the temporary permit?
No. There is no additional charge for the temporary permit. It is included in the issuance or renewal fee for a driver’s license or ID card.Does the temporary permit expire?
Yes. The temporary permit will be valid for 30 days from the date of issuance.If my temporary permit is lost/destroyed/put through the washer/eaten by the dog/etc., can I get another one?
Yes; and there will be no charge for a duplicate temporary permit.Will businesses accept the temporary permit as identification for cashing checks, buying alcohol or tobacco products, entering gambling facilities, etc.?
Each business must decide if the temporary permit will be accepted. However, according to our information, this has not proven to be a problem in the other 22 states where central issuance exists.Will the Social Security Administration, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and other government agencies accept the temporary permit as identification?
More than 60 percent of the driver’s licenses issued in the U.S. are distributed by states that use a central issuance system. U.S. federal agencies are very familiar with the temporary permit. However, as Iowa undergoes its transition to central issuance, Iowa DOT staff will make visits to the federal agencies and airlines flying out of airports based in and near Iowa. Samples of the temporary permits will be provided to these agencies and businesses.Can I live at one location, but have my driver’s license or ID card mailed to another location if I have problems receiving my mail?
The driver’s license or ID will be mailed to the address you provide at the driver’s license station.What happens if my driver’s license or ID card is returned to the Iowa DOT because it was undeliverable to my address? Will you call me if it is returned?
All undeliverable driver’s licenses and ID cards will be returned to the Iowa DOT. If your card is returned, the Iowa DOT will be unable to call you because the department does not collect telephone numbers during its application process. Therefore, if you do not receive your driver’s license or ID card in the mail within 10 business days, contact the Iowa DOT. A toll-free number for the Iowa DOT will be printed on your temporary permit.How long will it take before I receive my driver’s license or ID card?
You should receive your driver’s license or ID card at the mailing address you provided within 10 business days.If my driver’s license or ID card doesn’t arrive, do I have to get another photo taken?
Perhaps; it will depend on individual circumstances.What happens if the DL/ID card material is defective? Can the card be replaced at no cost?
If the material is defective, the Iowa DOT will replace the card at no cost to you. Please bring the defective card to one of the driver’s license stations to apply for a replacement. The central issuance firm will be using new material that is more flexible and less prone to breakage than the existing DLs/IDs.How may I contact the Iowa DOT?
Call:800-532-1121 - Toll-free in Iowa
515-244-9124 - Local Des Moines
515-244-8725 - Local Des Moines
E-mail: ods@dot.iowa.gov
