Navigating transportation services in Iowa has become more convenient than ever, especially for residents in Ames. The Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT) offers a comprehensive online portal, myMVD, designed to streamline various services and provide essential information without requiring in-person visits. Whether you’re in Ames or anywhere in Iowa, myMVD is your go-to resource for managing your driver’s license, ID card, and accessing important transportation updates.
myMVD is tailored for individual users handling their own transactions. For businesses or organizations seeking driving records, please visit the dedicated Iowa DOT driver records portal.
Renewing Your Driver’s License or ID Card Online
Looking to renew your Iowa driver’s license or identification card? myMVD provides a seamless online renewal process, saving you a trip to the DOT office.
Special Note for Veterans and Active Duty Military: Iowa honors its veterans and active duty service members by exempting certain driver’s license fees. If you are an active duty military member, an honorably discharged veteran, or a veteran with a permanent 100% service-connected disability rating, you may be eligible for fee waivers. To avail these waivers, you must renew your license in person and present the necessary documentation. Review the military fee waiver eligibility requirements to determine if you qualify. If you are a veteran who has previously submitted your documentation in person, your fee waiver will be automatically applied when you renew online.
Curious if you can renew your license or ID card online? Check the online renewal requirements to see if you meet the criteria.
Do You Have Your REAL ID Gold Star?
Mark your calendars! Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID gold star on your driver’s license or ID card, or another TSA-approved identification document such as a passport, will be mandatory for domestic air travel within the United States and for accessing certain federal facilities.
- To obtain your REAL ID gold star, a visit to an Iowa DOT office is required, and you will need to bring specific documents for verification.
- If you opt not to get a REAL ID, you will receive a driver’s license or identification card marked with “NOT FOR REAL ID ACT PURPOSES.”
- Learn more about REAL ID requirements and how to obtain one.
Checking the Mailing Status of Your New License or ID Card
After renewing your driver’s license or ID card, you can easily track its mailing status. Expect your new card to arrive in a plain white envelope within 30 days from the processing date.
Check Status
Login Tips for myMVD:
- Enter your first name in the first field and your last name in the second field.
- Ensure your name is entered exactly as it appears on your current license or ID card (e.g., use “Matthew” instead of “Matt” if that’s how it’s listed).
- Use the LAST 5 digits of your Social Security number for login. Using only the last four digits is a common error.
Need Assistance?
For any questions or if you require help navigating myMVD, the Iowa DOT is readily available to assist.
515-244-1052
