Frequently asked questions about IAPS
General information
Q: When will the IAPS system be available?A: The plan is for an early January release, but an exact date has not been set at this time. Keep checking this website for updates.
Q: Will my EZ Permit username and password be the same in IAPS?
A: No. All users will have to register a new account in IAPS. The Iowa DOT will open registration two weeks in advance so customers have time to create their accounts. More information will be provided closer to the launch date.
Q: Is use of the IAPS system mandatory?
A: Not at this time. The Iowa DOT will still allow customers to order permits via mail, fax and walk in. However, customers will no longer be able to have the permits billed to an EZ Permit account. Any new permits ordered must be paid for at the time of issuance using a credit card, cash or check.
Q: Does it cost anything to use IAPS?
A: No. Registering for an IAPS account is free and requires no security deposit.
Q: What are the major differences between IAPS and EZ Permit?
A: The biggest difference is that IAPS will be a “pay as you go” system, which means the Iowa DOT will discontinue sending a monthly billing. The new IAPS is still Web-based like EZ Permit, but IAPS has many upgrades, including automated routing, automatic issuance for 72 hour fuel/trip permits, integrated mapping, ability to save vehicle information, electronic cab card retrieval, and more.
Security deposits
Q: What will happen to my security deposit?A: Security deposits will no longer be required with IAPS. After an account is closed and the final invoice is settled, the deposit will either be refunded to the account holder or converted into escrow for use in IAPS. The choice is yours.
Q: I don’t know how much my security deposit is. Can you help?
A: Most security deposits are $100. Permitting services and some large companies may have a larger deposit. Contact the Iowa DOT at 515-237-3264 if you are unsure of the amount.
Q: When will I get the money back?
A: The Iowa DOT expects to have the security deposit funds returned to account holders by early spring 2013 (May or April); however, this may be completed earlier.
Payment methods
Q: How is IAPS different than EZ Permit for permit payment?A: The main difference is that charge accounts will be closed and permits can no longer be billed to your EZ Permit account. All other payment methods currently in use will still be available.
Q: What payment methods will IAPS accept?
A: IAPS will accept all major credit cards (Visa®, Mastercard•, Discover•, American Express•), escrow, cash and checks.
Q: Is there a credit card transaction fee?
A: Yes, there will be a processing fee for using a credit card; however, that fee will be much lower than the current charge because the Iowa DOT is using a different credit card processor.
Escrow accounts
Q: Are escrow accounts mandatory?A: No, customers still have the option to pay with a credit card, check or cash. Escrow is just another available option.
Q: How can I fund my escrow account?
A :Escrow accounts can be funded electronically though IAPS using a credit card or a customer can mail a check to the Iowa DOT.
Q: Will radioactive shipper accounts still be given a discount for paying with escrow?
A: No, the 20 percent discount will no longer be offered with IAPS. All payment methods will be treated the same.
