It is important to replace a motorcycle license in Iowa immediately following any event that rendered your current motorcycle license to be stolen, lost or damaged. In Iowa, it is illegally to operate a motorcycle without having the proper license or permit. Therefore, it is crucial that you request a replacement license right away in order to avoid further penalties.

An Iowa motorcycle license replacement can only be performed in person at a DMV office location. However, additional temporary options are available to individuals who are currently outside of the state. By learning more about the duplicate motorcycle license process, including the documentation that you may need to provide and the fees you can expect to pay, you will be better prepared for any event where you might need to request a replacement license or permit.

When is a motorcycle license replacement required in Iowa?

You must replace a motorcycle license through the Iowa DMV should your current license become lost, stolen or damaged. In Iowa, it is illegal to operate or ride a motorcycle without a valid license or permit, and you could therefore face legal penalties should you choose to do so anyway.

Documents Required to Replace a Motorcycle License in Iowa

Motorcycle license replacement documents may be required in Iowa if your local DMV is unable to successfully identify you based upon the photo in your previous license. If this is the case, you must be able to provide the DMV with proof of identity, which can be done with a document such as:

  • A valid passport.
  • A certified copy of a birth certificate issued within the U.S.
  • A certificate of naturalization.
  • A certificate of citizenship.
  • An unexpired permanent resident card.
  • An unexpired employment authorization document.

How to Replace an Iowa Motorcycle License in Person

Replacing a motorcycle license cannot be completed online or by mail in Iowa. However, you can request a duplicate license by either visiting your local DMV or a Kiosk location. There is no eligibility requirements that must be met in order to visit your local DMV.

During your visit, you may be asked to provide proof of identity, if the DMV cannot verify your identity with your previous photo. You will also be required to have a new photo taken and pay the licensing fee. A temporary license will be issued to you during your visit that you may use until you receive your permanent license.

In order to fully understand how to replace a motorcycle license in Iowa, it is also worth knowing that you can skip the line at the DMV by visiting a Kiosk station, so long as you meet additional eligibility requirements. To utilize a Kiosk station you must:

  • Be a resident of Iowa and a United States citizen.
  • Have a non-commercial driver’s license.
  • Not be seeking to replace a motorcycle permit (permit requests must be made at a DMV office).
  • Be able to pay with a credit or debit card.
  • Not need to make any changes to your name, date of birth, sex, class type, endorsements or restrictions.

When replacing a motorcycle license at a Kiosk, you will receive a receipt that provides proof of your request. A new license will be mailed to you and you will receive that license within 21 days.

Out-of-State Motorcycle License Replacement in Iowa

If you need to replace a motorcycle license in Iowa, but you are temporarily outside of the state, you can apply for a temporary driving permit by mail, email or by fax. With a temporary driving permit (TPD), you will retain the legal ability to drive, but the permit will not be valid for identification purposes. Once you have returned to Iowa, you will have to visit a DMV or Kiosk location to apply for a duplicate license.

To request a TPD after a lost motorcycle license, you must include the following information in your letter to the Iowa DMV:

  • Your full name.
  • Your driver’s license number or Social Security Number.
  • Your signature.
  • Your full date of birth.
  • An out of state address or fax number that you will be able to receive your temporary permit at.
  • Your telephone number.
  • Your email address.

You can fax your completed letter to 515-239-1837 or email a scanned copy of your letter to myMVD@iowadot.us. If you would prefer to mail your letter, you may mail your application to:

Iowa Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 9204
Des Moines, Iowa 50306-9204

Iowa Motorcycle License Replacement Fees

The duplicate motorcycle license fee in Iowa is $10. Most Iowa DMVs will accept cash, check, credit or debit card.

On the other hand, it is worth taking the time to call your local DMV prior to your visit in order to confirm the type of payment methods that are accepted. Credit or debit card payments will incur an additional processing fee.

Last updated on Wednesday, March 4 2020.