Iowa Driving Records

The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) rigorously maintains driving records for all licensed drivers in the state, as mandated by Iowa Code Section 321.10. These comprehensive records include details on traffic infractions, collisions, license suspensions, and other pertinent information.

These records serve multiple purposes for drivers and companies relying on safe, lawful vehicle operations. Drivers use their driving records to lower insurance costs and qualify them for jobs in transportation or delivery. For companies managing fleets or employing drivers, these driving records can help check if their employees are qualified to drive commercially.

Understanding these records thoroughly is valuable for anyone dealing with Iowa's driving regulations or managing vehicle-related businesses.

Types of Driving Records Available in Iowa

The Iowa DOT issues two primary categories of driving records: certified and non-certified.

Certified Driving Record

A certified driving record is an official document authenticating a driver's history. It encompasses:

Driver's personal information
Current license status and expiry date
Driving conviction history
Suspension or revocation details
Accident information

These records are mainly used for formal purposes, such as legal proceedings or employment verification.

Non-Certified Driving Record

A non-certified driving record contains comparable information to the certified version but is intended for general use. Insurance providers and potential employers commonly use it.

These records allow assessment of a driver's history without requiring official certification. Non-certified records are accessible at no cost through the Iowa DOT's online myMVD portal for non-certified records.

Both record types offer insights into a driver's traffic-related activities, including violations, accumulated points, and license status.

How To Request an Iowa Driving History Report?

An individual can access their Iowa driving record by viewing a free, non-certified version online or obtaining a certified copy. The free, non-certified driving history is available through the myMVD portal for personal viewing or printing.

Several ordering methods are available for those requiring a certified copy. For any certified record request, the person will need their Iowa driver's license number and Social Security Number.

Online

To order online, visit the myMVD portal for certified driving records. The official version certified by the Iowa DOT for official or legal purposes costs $5.50 plus a $3 charge.

By Mail

Alternatively, individuals can order a driving record by mail. The individual must complete the Privacy Act Agreement For Request of Motor Vehicle Records form. For personal requests, only Sections A, B, and D need to be filled out.

Once filled out, print and sign the request form. Include the requester's full name at the top of all printed sheets. If requesting another person's record, obtain their written consent and include it with the request form. Include a legible photocopy of the requester's driver's license or non-driver ID card.

Mail the completed form, ID photocopy, written consent (if applicable), and a check payable to "Treasurer, State of Iowa" worth $5.50 per driving record to:

Systems and Administration Bureau
Iowa Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 9204
Des Moines, Iowa 50306

Upon completion of the request, the Iowa DOT will email the information to the requester via email to the email address provided on the request form.

In Person

To request a certified driving record in person, follow the same requirements as mail requests. However, instead of mailing the request form, fees, and supporting documents, individuals can directly submit them to any Iowa DOT branch.

Uses of Iowa Driving Records

Residents and companies in Iowa can obtain a copy of driving records for different reasons. Regardless of their reasons, they must adhere to the legal uses of these documents.

Permitted Uses

Various entities can legally access and utilize Iowa driving records for specific purposes:

Employers may review these records to evaluate the driving history of potential or existing employees.
Insurance providers often examine driving records to assess risk and determine insurance rates.
Individuals are permitted to request their own records for verification or to address potential inaccuracies.

Law enforcement may access these records for investigations, court proceedings, or other official matters. The Iowa Code Section 321A.3 and the federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) define the conditions under which driving records can be accessed and used. These conditions guarantee that driving records are used for legitimate purposes only.

Prohibited Uses and Legal Restrictions

To protect individual privacy and rights, Iowa imposes strict legal restrictions on the use of driving records. It is forbidden to use these records for harassment, discrimination, or any activity that infringes upon the privacy rights of the record's subject.

Unauthorized access or misuse of driving records can result in legal repercussions, including fines and penalties under both state and federal laws.

Access to driving records is limited to those with legitimate information needs. For instance, an employer may only request a driving record if it directly relates to the job responsibilities of the position under consideration. The Iowa DOT enforces these restrictions to prevent abuse and unauthorized dissemination of personal information.

Understanding Iowa Driving Laws

Iowa has implemented driving regulations aimed at enhancing road safety and maintaining orderly traffic flow throughout the state. These rules cover a wide range of areas, from basic traffic guidelines to specialized requirements for various groups, including long-term residents, new arrivals, and foreign visitors.

The main goal of this regulatory structure is to safeguard all road users in Iowa. With clear expectations and guidelines for road behavior, Iowa aims to create a safer and more predictable driving environment for everyone navigating its roadways.

Key Driving Laws

Iowa has implemented driving laws to address numerous aspects of driving, such as the following:

Seat Belt and Child Safety Requirements

Iowa law, as outlined in Iowa Code Section 321.445, requires all vehicle occupants to wear seat belts, regardless of their seating position. This rule applies to both front and rear seats. For child passengers, the state mandates that children under six years of age must be secured in an appropriate child safety seat.

Distracted Driving Regulations

Under Iowa Code Section 321.276, it is illegal for all drivers, regardless of age, to read, write, or send text messages or other electronic communications while driving. This law aims to reduce distractions that can lead to accidents.

Drivers over 18 can use their phones for talking and as GPS devices, but they must refrain from texting. However, drivers under 18 are prohibited from using their phones for any purpose while driving, including hands-free calls.

Vehicle Liability Insurance

Iowa law requires all drivers to maintain liability insurance coverage. As per Iowa Code Section 321A.21, the minimum coverage requirements are:

$20,000 for bodily injury or death of one person in a single accident
$40,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more individuals in a single accident
$15,000 for property damage in a single accident

Iowa Code Section 321.20B stipulates that operating a vehicle without mandatory liability insurance is illegal. Drivers must carry proof of insurance and present it upon request by law enforcement. Failure to provide proof of insurance can result in fines, license suspension, and other penalties.

Reporting Accidents

Iowa law outlines specific responsibilities for drivers involved in accidents, particularly those resulting in injury or significant property damage.

According to Iowa Code Section 321.263, any driver involved in an accident causing personal injury is legally obligated to:

Stop at the scene of the accident.
Assist injured parties.
Share their personal information, including name, address, and vehicle registration number, with the injured party or their representative.
If requested, provide their driver's license information.

In serious injury or fatality cases, the driver must also notify law enforcement authorities. Failure to adhere to these requirements can result in severe legal repercussions, including charges for leaving the scene of an accident.

Furthermore, Iowa Code Section 321.266 mandates that drivers report accidents resulting in:

Death
Personal injury
Property damage exceeding a specified threshold (typically $1,500)

Such reports must be made promptly to the appropriate authorities. If law enforcement does not investigate the accident, the involved parties are required to submit a written report to the Iowa DOT.

Non-compliance with these reporting requirements can lead to penalties, potentially including suspension of driving privileges.

Requirements for Residents, New Residents, and Foreign Nationals

Iowa's driving laws establish distinct requirements for various groups to ensure all drivers are properly licensed and familiar with local regulations.

Iowa Residents

Iowa residents must obtain a valid state driver's license through the Iowa DOT. This process typically involves:

Passing a written knowledge test
Completing a road skills test
Passing a vision screening

For residents under 18, the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program imposes additional steps, including obtaining a learner's permit and an intermediate license before a full license.

License renewal is required every eight years, with more frequent renewals for older drivers or those with certain medical conditions. Residents must notify the DOT of address changes within 30 days.

New Residents

New Iowa residents must transfer their out-of-state license within 30 days of residency. This process involves:

Visiting a local Iowa DOT service center
Providing proof of identity, residency, and Social Security Number
Surrendering the out-of-state license

Most new residents with valid out-of-state licenses aren't required to retake written or road tests but must pass a vision screening. Additional requirements may apply to those with expired licenses or under 18.

Foreign Nationals

Foreign nationals in Iowa have specific driving options:

Those with a valid foreign license and International Driving Permit (IDP) may drive for up to one year.
After one year, they must obtain an Iowa driver's license.

To get an Iowa license, foreign nationals must:

Visit an Iowa DOT service center.
Provide proof of identity, legal U.S. presence, Iowa residency, and Social Security Number (or ineligibility proof).
May need to pass knowledge, road, and vision tests depending on their circumstances.

Temporary visa holders may be eligible for a temporary Iowa license valid for the duration of their authorized U.S. stay. Understanding these specific requirements is crucial, as driving without a valid license can lead to legal consequences.

The Points System in Iowa

Iowa employs a point system to track traffic violations, with different infractions assigned varying point values based on their severity. According to Iowa Administrative Code (IAC) Rule 761-615.9, some examples include:

Operating While Intoxicated (OWI): 4 points (5 for felony conviction)
Reckless Driving: 5 points
Excessive Speeding (25+ mph over limit): 2 points
Drag/Street Racing (felony conviction): 5 points
Fleeing or Eluding Law Enforcement: 5 points
Vehicular Homicide: 6 points

Accumulating Points

Point accumulation can lead to an individual being classified as a habitual offender, resulting in the following driving prohibitions:

6-7 points: 2-year prohibition
8-9 points: 3-year prohibition
10-12 points: 4-year prohibition
13-15 points: 5-year prohibition
16+ points: 6-year prohibition

Repeat offenders may face additional penalties, such as extended suspensions or mandatory counseling.

Duration and Reduction of Points

Demerit points typically remain on a driver's record for at least five years before removal. However, OWI convictions can remain for 12 years. Iowa does not offer a legal means to reduce demerit points. Drivers can only avoid accumulating more points to prevent longer prohibition periods.

Iowa Driver Improvement Program (DIP)

Iowa offers an 8-hour Driver Improvement Program that offending drivers can complete to prevent license suspension. Eligibility for the DIP includes:

Committing three moving violations within 12 months.
Committing excessive speeding (excess of 25-29 mph).
The first offense is illegally passing a school bus.

After program completion, drivers are placed on one-year probation. However, convictions and tickets remain on the driver's record. More information about the DIP is available on the official DOT website under "Driver Improvement Program."

Criminal vs. Civil Driving Offenses in Iowa

Iowa categorizes driving offenses into criminal and civil classifications, each carrying distinct rules and consequences. Understanding these differences is crucial for Iowa drivers to avoid legal complications.

Criminal Driving Offenses

Criminal driving offenses in Iowa are considered more severe, potentially resulting in substantial fines, imprisonment, and long-lasting impacts on a driver's record. Some notable criminal driving offenses include:

Reckless Driving

As per Iowa Code Section 321.277, reckless driving involves willful disregard for safety, significantly increasing accident risks. Penalties include fines of $65-$625 and up to 30 days in jail. Repeat offenses may lead to license suspension.

Drag or Street Racing

Under Iowa Code Section 321.278, unauthorized racing on public roads is a simple misdemeanor if no injuries occur, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $625. If death or pregnancy termination results, it becomes a Class D felony, carrying fines up to $7,500 and imprisonment up to five years.

Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)

Iowa Code Section 321J.2 prohibits driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Penalties escalate with repeat offenses:

First offense: Minimum 48 hours in jail, fines up to $1,250, license revocation for 180 days to one year.
Second offense: Minimum seven days in jail, fines up to $6,250, license revocation for 1-2 years.
Third or subsequent offenses: Class D felony, 30 days to five years in jail, fines up to $9,375, license revocation for six years.

Additional mandatory assignments may include substance use disorder evaluation, treatment, and education programs.

Hit and Run

Under Iowa Code Section 321.261 and Section 321.262, it is illegal to flee an accident scene without providing assistance or information. Penalties vary based on the accident's severity:

Property damage only: Simple misdemeanor, up to 30 days in jail, fines up to $625.
Injury: Aggravated misdemeanor, up to 12 months in jail, fines of $350-$1,875.
Death: Class D felony, up to five years in prison, fines up to $7,500.

Civil Driving Offenses

In Iowa, civil driving offenses, while generally less severe than criminal offenses, still carry significant consequences, including fines, penalties, and potential impacts on a driver's record. Two common civil driving offenses in Iowa are speeding and running red lights.

Speeding

Iowa has strict speed limits as per Iowa Code Section 321.285. For example, business districts have a limit of 20 mph, residential and school districts have 25 mph, and rural interstate highways can reach 70 mph.

Exceeding these limits can result in fines, typically depending on how much the driver exceeded the posted limit. Repeated speeding offenses may lead to license suspension.

Running a Red Light

As per Iowa Code Section 321.257, vehicles facing a red light must come to a complete stop to prevent collisions with other vehicles. Failure to comply with this law can result in:

Fines up to $200
Additional points on the driver's record
Potential requirement to attend traffic school (for repeat offenders)
Increased insurance premiums

These regulations aim to maintain orderly traffic flow and prevent accidents at intersections, which are common sites for vehicle collisions.

Iowa Driving Statistics and Goals

Iowa has experienced fluctuations in traffic fatalities in recent years, mirroring broader trends observed across the U.S. Data from the Iowa DOT and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal both increases and decreases in traffic-related deaths, influenced by various factors such as:

Weather conditions
Traffic volume
Enforcement of safety regulations

In 2023, Iowa reported over 370 traffic fatalities, representing a slight increase from previous years. Key contributing factors to these fatalities included speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving.

Goals for Improving Road Safety in Iowa

In response to recent traffic fatality trends, Iowa has adopted the national Vision Zero initiative, aiming to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries. The Iowa DOT has implemented several strategies to achieve this goal:

Increased traffic law enforcement, particularly for speeding, impaired driving, and seat belt violations
Launched educational initiatives targeting distracted driving, seat belt use, and impaired driving risks
Invested in road safety enhancements such as rumble strips, improved signage, and redesigned intersections
Utilized data analysis to identify high-risk areas and implement targeted interventions, including analyzing crash data to understand accident causes

These concerted efforts demonstrate Iowa's commitment to improving road safety and reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries across the state.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa Driving Records

Here are the most commonly asked questions about driving records in Iowa:

Can a Person Get Someone Else's Driving Records?

Other people can access another person's driving records, but only with the record owner's consent. It typically requires proof of consent, such as an authorization letter or notarized power of attorney.

How To Dispute an Error on a Person's Driving Record?

Contact the Iowa DOT promptly, providing documentation to support the claim. The DOT will then investigate the reported inaccuracy.

How Often Should an Individual Check Their Driving Record?

It is advisable to check periodically, especially after receiving a traffic ticket, being involved in an accident, or when applying for a driving-related job.

Helpful Links and Resources

Here are some helpful links and resources for Iowa drivers:

Iowa's GDL program: https://iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/under-18
A list of approved immigration services documents for foreign nationals in Iowa: https://iowadot.gov/mvd/driverslicense/driverslicense/foreign
The full statistics report on the 2023 traffic fatality rates in the U.S.: https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813561

Counties in Iowa

List of Content

Types of Driving Records Available in Iowa
1. Certified Driving Record
2. Non-Certified Driving Record
How To Request an Iowa Driving History Report?
Uses of Iowa Driving Records
1. Permitted Uses
2. Prohibited Uses and Legal Restrictions
Understanding Iowa Driving Laws
1. Key Driving Laws
2. Requirements for Residents, New Residents, and Foreign Nationals
The Points System in Iowa
Criminal vs. Civil Driving Offenses in Iowa
1. Criminal Driving Offenses
2. Civil Driving Offenses
Iowa Driving Statistics and Goals
1. Goals for Improving Road Safety in Iowa
Frequently Asked Questions About Iowa Driving Records
Helpful Links and Resources