History of DMV

The Iowa State Highway Commission was established in 1904 as part of the Iowa State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts (now known as Iowa State University). The goal of the organization was to adopt plans for the state's highway system, disseminate information to county supervisors, and keep records of important state transportation operations.

In 1913, the commission separated from the college to become its own government entity. In 1974, the Iowa General Assembly passed the legislation that changed the commission's name to the Iowa Department of Transportation.

Today, the Iowa DOT is headquartered in the Iowa Highway Commission Building in Ames. Although the building has been expanded several times, it has been the department's home since 1924.

Structure of the Iowa DMV

The Iowa Motor Vehicle Division, sometimes referred to as the Iowa DMV, is part of the Iowa DOT. Within the DMV are four separate offices: Driver Services, Motor Carrier Services, Motor Vehicle Enforcement, and Vehicle Services.

Driver Services is the department responsible for issuing driver's licenses to Iowa residents. This department also compiles accident statistics and provides driver safety education programs.

Motor Carrier Services is the department responsible for supervising commercial drivers. It issues CDL permits and makes sure drivers are complying with regulations established by the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986.

Motor Vehicle Enforcement monitors compliance with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. Officers from this division of the Iowa DOT also educate commercial drivers about hazardous materials regulations, conduct salvage theft examinations, and work to prevent driver's license fraud.

Vehicle Services issues vehicle registrations. It also handles license plates, titles, disability parking permits, and dealer licenses.