License Plate FAQs

Still have questions about Iowa license plates? Check out answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.

Where do I go to apply for my license plates?

Iowa drivers receive license plates as part of the vehicle registration process.

If you are a new Iowa resident, take your current Certificate of Title and a completed registration application to the nearest county treasurer's office to request license plates for your vehicle.

If you are moving from one Iowa county to another, you do not need to apply for new license plates. However, you will need to update your address to have your vehicle registration information properly forwarded.

When do I need to renew my license plates?

License plate renewals in Iowa are processed according to the vehicle owner's birth month. According to Iowa law, you can renew your license plates one month prior to your renewal month, during your renewal month, or during the month following your renewal month without paying a penalty.

For example, if your birthday is in October, you can renew your license plates anytime between September 1 and November 30 without paying a penalty. However, if the last day of the month your registration is due falls on a weekend or a holiday, the deadline is extended to include the first business day of the following month.

The county treasurer's office will mail you a notice when it is time to renew your license plates. If you are eligible to renew your plates online, your notice will include a special PIN number needed to access the state's online renewal system.

How do I replace missing or damaged license plates?

If your license plates are missing or damaged, you can apply for replacement plates by visiting county treasurer's office. Bring your current registration and a $5 replacement fee.

The county treasurer's office can also replace lost or damaged validation stickers with proof of current vehicle registration.

What do I do with my license plates when I sell my vehicle?

When selling your vehicle to a dealer or private individual, you should always remove your license plates before completing the title transfer. When you sell your vehicle and purchase a replacement car or truck within 30 days, you can simply transfer your old license plates to your new vehicle.

However, if you choose not to purchase a replacement vehicle, you should turn your license plates into the nearest county treasurer's office.

How do I buy a personalized license plate?

Applications for personalized license plates are available at your county treasurer's office. You can also download an application online and mail it to:

• Office of Vehicle Services

• Iowa Department of Transportation

• P.O. Box 9278

• Des Moines, IA 50306-9278

To view available personalized license plate designs, visit the Iowa DOT's Guide to Personalized & Specialty License Plates.

Is it legal to use a license plate holder or frame?

Novelty license plate holders are a fun way to express your personal sense of style, but Iowa law states that it is illegal to use a license plate holder that does not permit full view of all letters and numerals on the plate.

If I have a vehicle that is currently in storage, am I required to buy new license plates each year?

If you choose to place your car or truck in storage, Iowa law states that you are not obligated to pay a license plate fee each year.

If you wish to avoid paying license plate fees while your vehicle is in storage, surrender your plates and vehicle registration at your county treasurer's office. The State Motor Vehicle System will be updated with this new information and your registration will be stamped "Stored."

If your vehicle has been stored for more than 30 days, you'll receive a new set of license plates after taking your vehicle out of storage. However, if your current yearly registration has already expired, you'll be required to pay the full year registration fee in order to have your plates removed from storage.

Does Iowa issue antique plates?

Yes. To qualify for antique plates, a vehicle must be at least 25 years old. The plates may only be displayed during antique parades and exhibitions.

The plates are available at your county treasurer's office for $5.

Do I have to surrender my Iowa license plates after relocating to a new state?

Yes, if you are applying for a registration refund. Otherwise, you are not required to return your Iowa plates.