TRANSPORTATION MATTERS for IOWA

The Iowa DOT offers ID cards at any of the 100 driver’s license issuance locations across the state.

Obtaining a state-issued ID card is simple and the process for obtaining a community ID card mimics the same process the Iowa DOT uses. All you need to do is bring a few documents with you. State issued IDs offer card holders the convenience of being honored not only locally, but on a national and international level.

Your identity is safe with an Iowa DOT-issued ID card. The security of every citizen’s identity is a priority for the Iowa DOT. Before we issue an ID card, the Iowa DOT checks several national databases that verify the person’s identity to make sure that person is who they say they are. All issuance staff members are trained to authenticate identity documents and to identify fraudulent documents. The Iowa DOT also uses technology to check the photo of the person applying for an ID card against photos we have on file, as another step to verify the identity of the person applying for a new ID. The plastic ID card is sent to the applicant once the identity has been verified and proven to be genuine. The plastic card produced by the Iowa DOT contains multiple, sophisticated layers of security that help to prevent effective counterfeiting, and that are lacking in community ID cards.

Iowa DOT identification cards are valid for eight years and are available for $1 per year. 

Easy access for audiences with special needs and considerations

The Iowa DOT understands that the decision to stop driving is a difficult one for many older Iowans. The need to maintain proof of identity continues even when driving ends. The Iowa DOT strives to make the transition as easy as possible by allowing Iowa seniors who already have an Iowa driver’s license to seamlessly switch to a state-issued ID card. 

Once you have had a driver’s license, your identity has already been established and is on record. To get an ID, simply surrender your license and replace it with a state-issued ID at any driver’s license issuance location. There is no testing or additional proof of identity or residency required.  If you voluntarily surrender your license and driving privilege or if your license is suspend because you have been determined to be an unsafe driver there is no cost to switch from a driver’s license to an ID.

At the Iowa DOT, we strive to serve the homeless, people in poverty or transition, and new immigrants.  We work with homeless individuals to establish a shelter or other community service center that can serve as a residential address until permanent accommodations are made. A new immigrant that has lawfully entered the United States typically has all of the immigration documents needed to obtain either a driver’s license or state-issued ID.  The only additional step is to simply present two documents which show the residential address. This is the same process as any other applicant.

Our online resource helps applicants assure they are presenting the correct documents.  The Iowa DOT also works with local immigrant support groups to provide education and information on how to obtain state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards. 

Enhancing access to state-issued driver’s license or ID cards is extremely important to the Iowa DOT. It is our vision to be smarter, simpler, and customer driven. What does that mean to you? We’re here to provide you with the identification card you need to live and work in Iowa, and verify your identity in the U.S. and beyond.