Replacing a Lost Registration in Iowa
If you own a vehicle in Iowa, you must display a registration decal on your license plate and keep a registration receipt in the vehicle. If you’ve lost or damaged your items, it’s important that you replace them before you get a ticket.
Fortunately, Iowa’s Motor Vehicle Division has made the process of replacing your IA sticker or registration quick and easy.
IA Lost Registration & Plate Decals
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged registration or plate sticker is as simple as visiting your county treasurer’s office and requesting one. When you visit, make sure to be ready to provide your:
- Plate number.
- Current registration, if you are replacing your plate decal.
- Payment for the duplicate registration fee.
- This fee MAY VARY based on your county of residence. FOR EXAMPLE, Polk County charges $3, but this may be different for you. Contact your county treasurer’s office for specific fee information.
Depending on your county’s requirements, you may also be asked to provide your:
- Vehicle’s year, make, and model.
- Driver’s license or ID card.
- Vehicle identification number (VIN). Find this on your:
- Title.
- Dashboard near the windshield on the driver’s side.
- Driver’s door jamb.
Please contact your local county treasurer’s office or the Iowa Motor Vehicle Division at (515) 237-3121 if you have any more questions about replacing your lost or damaged registration items.
Replacing Your License Plates in Iowa
If you've lost or damaged your vehicle's license plates, you can request replacement plates at your county treasurer's office. However, you will need to provide proof of your current vehicle registration and pay a fee for this service.
If you don't have your license plates or if your license plates are damaged beyond the point of being able to be read, you should not drive your car until you are able to obtain replacements.
