Iowa Driver's License

Some states have shortened the time span between renewal periods for a license based on the driver’s age. Other states issue restricted licenses to drivers based on individual capabilities (only daytime driving, only driving a designated number of miles from home, etc.). In Iowa, drivers age 70 and older must renew their license every two years (Iowa Code 321.196). To find information about licensing requirements, click here or visit the Iowa Department of Transportation, Office of Driver Services at http://www.iamvd.com/ods/index.htm. The office has a section designated for older drivers which provides links to several informational guides on topics including driving retirement, driving with diminished skills, driver’s license renewal in Iowa, older drivers and risk, and a senior driver’s information guide.

To learn more about Iowa’s driving laws, view the Iowa Driver’s Manual and Study Guides that can be accessed by clicking here or visit the Iowa Office of Driver Services (ODS) web site at http://www.iowadot.gov/MVD/ods/index.htm.  To find a county driver’s license issuance sites, click here or visit the MVD web site.
 

Vision Requirements

Iowa requires all drivers pass a vision screening before they can obtain a driver’s license or permit, or when they renew a license (Iowa Code 321.196). This screening is to make sure drivers have at least 20/40 vision in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses.  Older drivers can go directly to their doctor for a vision check if they are applying for a non-commercial license. The information can be on a form furnished by the Iowa DOT Office of Driver Services or it can be a letter from the doctor if the doctor measured the person’s vision within 30 days of applying for a license (Iowa Code section 321.186A).

Privacy

Under state law (Iowa Code 211.11), motor vehicle and driver license records are subject to public disclosure. The Driver Privacy Protection Act keeps personal information private by limiting access to the information.  Personal information includes a person’s photograph, Social Security number, driver’s license number, name, address, telephone number, and medical or disability information.