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Iowa ATV Registration & OHV Permits

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If you plan to enjoy Iowa’s off-road riding areas and trails, you’ll want to know the OHV permit requirements and ATV/UTV laws you’ll need to follow. 

This page will provide you with the details on OHV stickers and ATV registration for Iowa residents and out-of-state visitors. 

For more information and other details regarding ATVs, UTVs, and other off-road vehicles and recreation areas, please visit: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Things-to-Do/Off-Highway-Vehicles

Iowa ATV Registration Requirements & ORV Stickers

ATV title and registration is required in Iowa. 

New registrations and transfers will need to be completed through your local county Recorder’s office. 

To title and register your Iowa OHV, you’ll need to:

ATV registrations are valid for 1 year. All OHV permits expire on December 31. The renewal period to avoid late fees is September 1st through December 31st. 

Once you’ve entered your vehicle in the system, you can renew your registration through your local county office or the Iowa DNR website: https://license.gooutdoorsiowa.com/Licensing/CustomerLookup.aspx 

You’ll need to place your registration decals towards the rear of yourATV where it is clearly visible. 

If you’ve recently purchased an ATV through a private sale, you’ll be required to transfer it within 30 days. 

Where to Buy an OHV Permit in Iowa?

First time ATV title and registration should be purchased through your County Recorder office. 

Renewals and non-resident permits can be purchased through the IA DNR website: https://gooutdoorsiowa.com/ 

Iowa OHV Permits for Non-Residents

Non-residents operating their out-of-state ATV in Iowa are required to purchase a non-resident User Permit through the Iowa DNR or an approved vendor: https://www.iowadnr.gov/Portals/idnr/uploads/files/elsivendors.pdf 

Iowa OHV Permit Cost

Fees for your Iowa ATV registration include:

  • New OHV registrations: $17.75.
  • OHV registration renewal: $17.75.
  • Non-resident OHV use permit: $17.75.
  • Duplicate registration: $7.75.
  • Title fee: $11.50. 

Local fees and taxes may also apply. 

ATV & Off-Road Vehicle Laws in Iowa

Be sure to check the rules, regulations and fees for the Iowa off-road trails you plan on riding. Local laws and regulations may vary. 

Riders 12 and under must complete a safety course and ride under the supervision of an authorized adult. 

Regardless of whether a particular state or trail requires it, ATV/UTV and dirt bike riders and passengers should always wear the proper safety equipment and helmets while riding. 

Never operate an off-road vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. 

Failing to obey the off-road vehicle laws of Iowa and the local jurisdiction may result in tickets, fines, and penalties. 

Check out some of these other great ATV/UTV and dirt bike resources from MotorcycleZombies.com:

ATV & UTV Insurance

Dirt Bike Insurance

ATV vs. UTV

ATV Age Ranges

What to Wear ATV Riding

How to Ride an ATV

How to Ride a Dirt Bike

How Fast is a Dirt Bike?