In recent years, ownership of RVs and motor homes has skyrocketed. Many Iowa residents say RV and motor home travel is safe, affordable, and fun. RVs and motor homes can offer amenities such as fireplaces, gourmet kitchens, spacious bedrooms, and satellite TV.

If you're interested in discovering the benefits of "a vacation home on wheels," you'll be pleased to learn that the process for registering your RV or motor home is the same as that for registering a car. Even better, if you've purchased your vehicle from a licensed dealer, the dealer will most likely handle the registration paperwork for you.

If you've purchased your RV or motor home through a private seller, the seller must prepare an odometer reading disclosure, an estimate of fair market value, and a disclosure of any vehicle damages for you to submit to your county treasurer's office when you apply for a title and registration in your name.

Whether you've purchased your vehicle from a licensed dealer or a private seller, your registration must be completed within 30 days. If you are a new Iowa resident, you have 30 days from the date you establish residency to register your RV or motor home and pay the necessary fees. Iowa registration is necessary even if the license plates from your home state are still valid.

After you complete your RV or motor home registration, you'll receive a registration receipt to keep in your vehicle. Since license plates are used for several years, you'll be given a sticker for your rear license plate each time you renew your RV or motor home registration (you may even renew online, if you're eligible). If you move before your registration has expired, you must inform the county treasurer's office of your new mailing address within 10 days.

More information about Iowa's RV and motor home registration policies is available in our registration FAQs.

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