Iowa Drivers License Fees to Increase in 2021
Iowa residents looking to obtain or renew their driver’s licenses will soon have to dig a little deeper into their pockets as the cost of a driver’s license is set to increase in 2021. The Iowa Department of Transportation recently announced that the fees for driver’s licenses will be increasing starting January 1, 2021.
The cost of a standard Class C driver’s license, which is the most common type of license issued in Iowa, will increase from $8 to $12 for a renewal and from $10 to $20 for a new license. This marks the first time in several years that the fees for driver’s licenses have been increased in Iowa.
According to the Iowa DOT, the fee increase is necessary to cover the rising costs associated with the production and issuance of driver’s licenses. The department cited factors such as inflation, increased security measures, and new technology as contributing to the need for the fee increase.
While some Iowa residents may be unhappy about the fee increase, the Iowa DOT emphasized that the fees for driver’s licenses in the state remain among the lowest in the country. The department also noted that the fee increase will help ensure that Iowa continues to meet federal standards for driver’s license issuance and security.
In addition to the increase in fees for standard driver’s licenses, the cost of other types of licenses will also be impacted. For example, the fee for a commercial driver’s license will increase from $8 to $14 for a renewal and from $10 to $25 for a new license. The fee for a motorcycle endorsement will increase from $2 to $8.
The fee increase will apply to all driver’s license transactions conducted at Iowa DOT locations, as well as online and by mail. The department is encouraging Iowa residents to plan ahead and be aware of the fee changes when it comes time to renew or obtain a driver’s license in 2021.
In addition to the fee increase, the Iowa DOT is also reminding residents that a REAL ID will be required to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities starting in October 2021. To obtain a REAL ID, Iowa residents will need to provide additional documentation, such as a birth certificate and proof of residency, and pay an additional fee.
Overall, the fee increase for driver’s licenses in Iowa is seen as a necessary step to ensure the continued safety and security of the state’s residents. While some may see it as an inconvenience, the Iowa DOT is working to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible for all residents.
As the new year approaches, Iowa residents are encouraged to stay informed about the fee changes and plan accordingly for any upcoming driver’s license transactions. By staying up-to-date on the latest information from the Iowa DOT, residents can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when it comes to obtaining or renewing their driver’s licenses in 2021.
