Renewing Your License

Your Iowa license expires on your birthday. It is valid for driving for an additional 60 days.  After 60 days, you can be ticketed for driving with an expired license.  Your license can be renewed within one year of the expiration date without having to take the knowledge test; however, you will have to pass the vision screening test each time your license is renewed.

If your license has been expired for more than one year, you will have to take the driving test, knowledge test and vision screening.

You can also renew your license 30 days prior to your birthday.  Under special circumstances, you can apply for your license renewal from 30 days to one year before the expiration on your license.  You must, however, explain to the examiner why you're applying for such an early renewal.

Temporary Extension

If you are temporarily out-of-state and are unable to renew your driver's license in person, you may apply for a temporary extension not to exceed six months.  A request for extension must be made within 30-days before or 60-days after the expiration date.   The request must also be in writing by mailing or faxing an Application for Temporary Extension of Motor Vehicle License - Form #430027 to the Office of Driver Services.  You must provide an out-of-state address and/or out-of-state fax number.

Temporary Extension for Military Personnel

An extension of operating privileges may be given to military personnel who cannot return to Iowa to renew their driver's license in person.  The extension is valid until six months following separation from active duty.

Iowa law also provides for an extension to dependents of active military personnel.  This extension is valid for five years from the expiration date of the license.  A copy of the dependent's military identification must accompany the written request.

A request for an Extension for Military Service - Form 430081 may be faxed or mailed to the Office of Driver Services.

 

Office of Driver Services
Iowa Dept. of Transportation
P.O. Box 9204
Des Moines, IA  50306-9204
Telephone:  515-244-8725
FAX:  515-239-1837