- New Law (Effective September 1, 2024): Iowans in their 70s can now renew their driver’s license for up to eight years, rather than every two years. The requirement for biennial (every two years) renewals now begins at age 78, instead of 72.
- Before Age 78: Drivers aged 18 to 77 can receive licenses valid for up to eight years, with renewal periods tapering as you age (e.g., at 73, valid for 7 years; at 74, for 6 years, and so on).
- Age 78 and Older: Licenses for those 78 and above are valid for two years.
Renewal Methods
- In-Person Renewal: Available to all, and required for those 70 and older. Seniors must pass a vision test at each renewal. If your license has been expired for more than 12 months, you must also pass written and driving exams.
- Online Renewal: Only available for those under 70. Seniors 70 and older must renew in person.
- By Mail: Not permitted for those 70 and older.
Vision and Other Testing
- Vision Test: Mandatory for all drivers 70 and older at every renewal. You can use the free vision screening at the DOT or submit a vision report from an outside specialist, but it must be dated within 30 days of your renewal request.
- Other Tests: If your license has been expired for more than a year, you will need to pass knowledge and road exams.
Fees
- Standard Fee: $32 for an eight-year license.
- Reduced Fee for Seniors: For those 78 and older, the two-year license renewal fee is $8.
Table
| Age Group | Renewal Period | Renewal Method | Vision Test Required | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18–69 | 8 years | Online, In-person | At DOT discretion | $32 |
| 70–77 | Up to 8 years | In-person only | Every renewal | $32 |
| 78 and older | 2 years | In-person only | Every renewal | $8 |
Additional Notes
- No Online Renewal for Seniors 70+: All seniors 70 and older must renew in person due to the vision test requirement.
- Vision Report Option: If you prefer, you may have an outside vision specialist complete a vision report, but it must be recent (within 30 days).
- License Delivery: New licenses are mailed and typically arrive within 30 days.
Key Takeaways
- The law now allows Iowans in their 70s to renew for longer periods, reducing the frequency of visits to the DOT until age.
- After age 78, renewals revert to every two years, with a vision test required at each renewal.
- Online and mail renewals are not available for those 70 and older due to safety and vision screening requirements.
This updated process aims to balance convenience for senior drivers with safety considerations on Iowa’s roads.
Sources
[1] https://iowadot.gov/drivers-licenses-ids/get-or-renew-drivers-licenses-ids-permits/renew-drivers-license
[2] https://zutobi.com/us/ia-car/driver-guides/iowa-drivers-license-renewal
[3] https://kiwaradio.com/local-news/new-law-lets-older-drivers-escape-every-two-year-license-review/
[4] https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/iowa-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
[5] https://www.iihs.org/topics/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table