Iowa Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Iowa has no requirements regarding motorcycle riding (for example, neither helmets nor goggles are required).
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 25 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 65 mph |
| Interstates | 70 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | Yes |
| Parking | Yes |
| Equipment | Yes |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death or personal injury must be reported immediately to the local authorities and (if the accident results in death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500) within 72 hours to the Iowa Department of Transporta-tion, Office of Driver Services, Park Fair Mall, 100 Euclid, P.O. Box 9204, Des Moines IA 50306-9204. An accident must also be reported to the Chief of Police in cities with a population of 15,000 or more.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law.
Financial responsibility law with security-type law and future proof-type law applicable in the event of an accident causing death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500.
Minimum limits: $20,000/40,000/15,000.
No-fault insurance is required. Iowa has unsatisfied judgment funds law and uninsured motorist law.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle unless carried in trunk or area out of reach of driver.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- Iowa has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 240-day driver's license revocation for first offense.
- Handguns may not be carried in a loaded or accessible condition; rifles and shotguns must be unloaded and cased yet may be accessible to passengers.
- Studded tires are permitted from November 1 to April 1.
- Tire chains are not required.
- Iowa has a seat belt law with primary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
- Iowa has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 7 years of age. Children under age 3 must use approved car safety seats.
- Iowa does not have a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.
- Registration and insurance must be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 800/532-1121
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 911 or 55