How to register a car in Iowa
Auto repair

How to register a car in Iowa

08.11.2022 /

Moving to a new area can be a bit stressful due to the many things that need to be dealt with when trying to settle in. For new residents of Iowa, car registration is important in order to legally drive a vehicle on their roads. The State of Iowa requires all new residents to register their vehicle within 30 days of moving. To begin this enrollment process, you will need to visit the Treasurer's office of the county you are moving to. Once you register your vehicle, you will be issued a new Iowa license plate.

You can only register a vehicle in person at the local treasury. If you rent a car, the registration process is usually carried out by the dealership. If you purchased your vehicle from a private seller, you need to make sure that person has provided you with the following:

  • Transfer of ownership signed by you and the seller
  • Accurate odometer readings
  • Vehicle damage claim.

Once you have received all of this from the seller, you can go to the treasurer's office and follow the steps below to register the vehicle:

  • You will need to present a valid Iowa driver's license.
  • Complete an application for a certificate or title or vehicle registration
  • Present odometer readings, PTS and other documents confirming ownership.
  • Pay the relevant registration fees

There are fees associated with the registration process that must be paid before an Iowa license plate is issued. Here are the fees you can expect to pay:

  • Registering a motorcycle will cost between $10 and $20.
  • Registration of multi-purpose vehicles or SUVs will cost $55.
  • Registration of any vehicle older than 12 years will cost $50.
  • Registration of vehicles modified for people with disabilities will cost $60.
  • There are registration fees that will depend on the value and weight of the car.

The vehicle that is being registered must also have a minimum of $20,000 personal injury coverage under the vehicle insurance policy. The Iowa Department of Motor Vehicles has a website where you can get extensive information about this process and get answers to any questions you may have.

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