Register a vehicle in Iowa

Online or in person

Not for a first registration · County treasurer's officeThe DOT says titling and registering is done at a county treasurer's office. Renewing a registration (tags) can be done online. Title and register within 30 days from the date you establish residency, even if your out-of-state plates are still valid.

Cost

Use the DOT fee estimatorThe DOT's estimator is under Tools > Dealer Inquiry > Fee Estimator and does not work on mobile devices. Electric vehicles pay a supplemental annual fee: $130.00 battery electric, $65.00 plug-in hybrid, $9.00 motorcycle (BEV or PHEV).

Your plan

1. Gather your documents

   • Application for Iowa certificate of title (form 411007) · all that apply
     Signed by all owners. If there is a lien on the vehicle, note it on the application.
   • Signed title from the previous owner or dealer · all that apply
   • Bill of sale on the Iowa certificate of title, or purchase agreement
   • Cancellation of Security Interest (form 411168) · all that apply
     Only if an uncancelled lien shows on the front of the title.
   • Odometer statement · all that apply
     Completed on the back of the title. If the mileage is not noted there for a model year 2011 or newer vehicle, use the separate odometer form the DOT lists.
   • Damage Disclosure (form 411108) · all that apply
     For vehicles 8 years old or newer.
   • Identity verification
     For some transactions the county treasurer's office may require it.
     Show accepted documents (bring 1)

     • Driver's license
     • State-issued ID
     • Social Security card

2. Go to a county treasurer's office

   Title and register your vehicle with any county treasurer's office. Surrender your current certificate of title and the signed application.

   Find your county treasurer ↗

3. Get an estimate of the cost

   The DOT's fee estimator gives an estimate of the total cost to title and register a vehicle you have purchased. It does not work on mobile devices. In the upper left corner, hover over Tools and select Dealer Inquiry, then select Fee Estimator on the left side of the page. Enter the VIN and the vehicle and purchase information, use the Credit Calculator to find the Registration Credit Amount, and click Calculate.

   Register a Vehicle ↗

4. Moving to another county

   Report your change of address to the county treasurer in your former county of residence within 10 days after your move.

   Register a Vehicle ↗