ARC 9266C

ARC 9266C

Rulemaking related to vehicle registration and certificate of title

Notice of Intended Action for this rulemaking was published in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin on December 25, 2024, as ARC 8593C. Public hearings were held on the following date(s):

●January 17, 2025

No one attended the public hearings. No public comments were received.

The Department made changes within subrule 400.35(3) to correct “child support recovery unit” to “child support services” to comply with 2023 Iowa Acts, Senate File 514.

ITEM 1.Rescind 761—Chapter 400 and adopt the following new chapter in lieu thereof:

CHAPTER 400

VEHICLE REGISTRATION AND CERTIFICATE OF TITLE

761—400.1(307,321,322,554) Definitions. The definitions in Iowa Code section 321.1 are hereby made part of this chapter. In addition, the following words and phrases, when used in Iowa Code chapter 321 or this chapter, shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them, except when the context otherwise requires.

“Certificate of title” means a document issued by the appropriate official that contains a statement of the owner’s title, the name and address of the owner, a description of the vehicle, a statement of all security interests and additional information required under the laws or rules of the jurisdiction in which the document was issued, and that is recognized as a matter of law as a document evidencing ownership of the vehicle described. The terms “title certificate,” “title only,” and “title” are synonymous with the term “certificate of title.”

“Dealer’s or manufacturer’s inventory” means all vehicles owned by a dealer that are being held for sale or trade and for which the dealer has a duly assigned ownership document as required by Iowa Code section 321.45.

“Driverless-capable vehicle” means the same as defined in rule 761—380.2(321).

“Electric vehicle annual registration fee” means an annual registration fee for a battery electric or plug-in hybrid electric motor vehicle as provided in Iowa Code sections 321.116 and 321.117. Unless otherwise provided, for purposes of this chapter, any reference to a registration fee, a penalty, or a registration fee and penalty shall also include an annual registration fee, penalty, or registration fee and penalty for a battery electric or plug-in hybrid electric motor vehicle.

“Electronic” means as defined in Iowa Code section 554D.103.

“Electronic lien and title” or “ELT” means an information technology system authorized by the department for the purpose of providing an electronic record of the certificate of title to a security interest holder in order to subject a vehicle to an electronic lien and to allow for the submission and receipt of forms related to security interests through electronic means as described in Iowa Code section 321.50.

“Electronic record” means as defined in Iowa Code section 554D.103.

“Electronic signature” means as defined in Iowa Code section 554D.103.

“End user” means a person or entity that directly uses the services of an ERT service provider to submit an electronic application for certificate of title or registration of a vehicle.

“ERT” means the electronic registration and title program.

“ERT service provider” means a person or entity authorized by the department to submit electronic applications for certificate of title or registration of a vehicle on behalf of an end user to a county treasurer.

“Farm trailer” means a trailer used exclusively by a farmer in the conduct of the farmer’s agricultural operation. The term shall not include a “semitrailer.”

“Final-stage manufacturer” means as defined in Iowa Code section 322.2.

“Half-year fee” means the first semiannual installment of an annual registration fee under Iowa Code section 321.134(2) for a heavy weighted truck when the registration month is December but does not include an electric vehicle annual registration fee. The term “half-year registration” is synonymous with the term “half-year fee.”

“Hearse” means a motor vehicle used exclusively to transport a deceased person.

“Lien” means an interest in a vehicle that secures payment or performance of an obligation. The term “security interest” is synonymous with the term “lien.”

“Manufacturer’s certificate of origin” means a certification signed by the manufacturer, distributor or importer that the vehicle described has been transferred to the person or dealer named and that the transfer is the first transfer of the vehicle in ordinary trade and commerce.

1.The terms “manufacturer’s statement,” “importer’s statement or certificate,” “MSO” and “MCO” are synonymous with the term “manufacturer’s certificate of origin.”

2.In addition to the requirements of Iowa Code section 321.45(1), the certificate shall contain a description of the vehicle that includes the make, model, style, vehicle identification number, and, if a motorized bicycle, the maximum speed.

3.For 1992 and subsequent model year vehicles, the form used for manufacturers’ certificates of origin shall conform with the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA) Appendix B: Recommended Specifications and Security Features for a Manufacturers Certificate of Origin effective 2023. This requirement does not apply to trailer-type vehicles.

“Model year,” except where otherwise specified, means the year certified by the manufacturer. For purposes of titling and registration, the model year shall advance one year each January 1.

“Registered” means that the appropriate registration fee has been paid for a vehicle and a registration receipt evidencing payment has been issued to the owner.

“Registration receipt” means a document issued to the owner of a vehicle by the appropriate agency whose duty it is to register vehicles, that contains the name and address of the owner and a description of the vehicle, and that is issued to the owner when the vehicle has been registered. The terms “registration card” and “registration certificate” are synonymous with the term “registration receipt.”

“Security interest” means an interest in a vehicle that secures payment or performance of an obligation. The term “lien” is synonymous with the term “security interest.”

“Signature” unless otherwise specified shall include a signature in ink or an electronic signature as provided in Iowa Code section 554D.103(8). A requirement to sign a document unless otherwise specified shall allow for a signature in ink or an electronic signature.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.1, 321.8, 321.20, 321.23, 321.24, 321.40, 321.45, 321.50, 321.116, 321.117, 321.123, 321.134,321.157 and 322.2 and chapter 554D.

761—400.2(307,321,322) Vehicle registration, certificate of title, receipt, validation sticker and registration plates—general provisions.

400.2(1) Vehicles subject to registration.

a.A vehicle subject to registration under the laws of Iowa shall be required to be registered from the time the vehicle is first operated or moved upon a highway in this state.

b.The department shall not register the following:

(1)An all-terrain vehicle.

(2)A vehicle built on or after January 1, 1968, unless it was manufactured primarily for use on public streets, roads and highways except a vehicle operated exclusively by a person with a disability, which may be registered if the department, in its discretion, determines that the vehicle is not in an unsafe condition. This subparagraph does not apply to a vehicle that is specially constructed, a reconstructed street rod or a replica vehicle as defined in Iowa Code section 321.1.

400.2(2) Vehicles exempt from titling or registration. No certificate of title will be issued for a vehicle that is exempt from the titling or registration provisions of Iowa Code chapter 321 unless issuance of a certificate of title is specifically authorized in Iowa Code chapter 321 or as provided in 761—Chapter 410.

400.2(3) Issuance of a certificate of title, receipt, validation sticker and registration plates upon payment of registration fees. Except as otherwise provided in Iowa Code chapter 321 or this chapter, the current year registration fee and any delinquent registration fees and penalties, if any, shall be paid prior to issuance of a certificate of title, receipt, validation sticker and registration plates.

400.2(4) Trailers with an empty weight of 2,000 pounds or less. No certificate of title will be issued for trailers with an empty weight of 2,000 pounds or less.

400.2(5) Vehicles owned by the government. A certificate of title shall be issued for a vehicle owned by the government that is otherwise required to be titled. However, vehicles owned by the government are exempted from registration and titling fees.

400.2(6) Vehicles leased by the government. Vehicles leased by the government for a period of 60 days or more are exempted from payment of registration fees. A copy of the lease agreement, certificate of lease, or other evidence that the vehicle is being leased by the government shall be required. However, the lessor is not exempted from the requirements for obtaining a certificate of title as set out in Iowa Code chapter 321 and these rules, including payment of the appropriate certificate of title fee.

400.2(7) Private school buses, fire trucks, authorized emergency vehicles, and transit buses. In accordance with Iowa Code sections 321.18, 321.19 and 321.22, private school buses, fire trucks not owned or operated for a pecuniary profit, certain authorized emergency vehicles owned and operated by nonprofit organizations, and urban and regional transit system buses are exempt from the payment of registration fees. However, these vehicles are not exempt from the requirements for obtaining a certificate of title as set out in Iowa Code chapter 321, including payment of the appropriate certificate of title fee.

400.2(8) Plates for exempted vehicles. The department, upon application, issues plates for exempted vehicles under subrules 400.2(5), 400.2(6) and 400.2(7) in accordance with the requirements in Iowa Code sections 321.18, 321.19, 321.22 and 321.170, as applicable, and this chapter. As authorized by Iowa Code sections 8A.361 and 8A.362(7), the department of administrative services may order the issuance of regular registration plates for exempted vehicles assigned to the department of administrative services. The following process applies to regular registration plates issued to an exempted vehicle under Iowa Code section 321.19(1)“c”:

a.The requesting agency under Iowa Code section 321.19(1)“c,” other than the department of administrative services, files an application with the department in the form and manner prescribed by the department and certifies the authorized purpose for which issuance of the registration plates for an exempted vehicle is requested.

b.The plates shall be assigned to a specific vehicle. The requesting agency shall notify the department within ten days of assigning the plates to another vehicle.

c.In accordance with Iowa Code section 321.19, the department maintains separate records of regular registration plates issued to exempted vehicles, which are available in a manner that allows law enforcement and other persons authorized by Iowa Code section 321.11(3) to query vehicle and owner information by the registration plate number.

d.If a vehicle to which regular registration plates are assigned under this subrule is no longer used for an exempted purpose, the requesting agency shall surrender the plates to the department and the department will cancel the plates. The department may revoke the plates and require the agency to surrender the plates pursuant to Iowa Code section 321.103 if the department determines use of the plates is no longer authorized.

400.2(9) Registration plates mailing fee. Pursuant to Iowa Code section 321.105, the mailing fee for registration plates is $5.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.18 through 321.20B, 321.22, 321.24, 321.34, 321.103,321.105, 321.123, 321.170, 321I.4 and 322C.2(19).

761—400.3(321,322,423) Application for certificate of title or registration for a vehicle.

400.3(1) Application form. To apply for a certificate of title or registration for a vehicle, the owner of the vehicle shall complete an application form prescribed by the department, which may be electronic. In addition to the information required in Iowa Code section 321.20, the application shall include:

a.The plate number and plate type if the owner has registration plates that have been assigned to the owner and transferred to the vehicle.

b.The vehicle owner’s month of birth, if applicable, subject to the following:

(1)If the vehicle is owned by one individual, the individual’s month of birth determines the registration year.

(2)If the vehicle is owned by two or three individuals, the county treasurer selects the month of birth of one of the individuals to determine the registration year.

(3)If the vehicle is owned by a partnership, corporation, association, or governmental subdivision, the county treasurer selects the month to determine the registration year.

c.The model year of the vehicle.

d.The purchase or acquisition date and the purchase price.

e.The vehicle color. If the color is not already listed in the department’s vehicle registration and titling system, then the county treasurer selects the color that most closely matches the application.

f.The date the vehicle was brought into Iowa, if the vehicle was registered in a foreign jurisdiction.

g.The owner’s signature. If there are two or more owners, all owner signatures. The definition of “signature” in Iowa Code section 9B.2(15) applies.

h.If the vehicle has been sold to the owner by a dealer as defined in Iowa Code section 321.1 and the dealer collects the fees and forwards the application form under Iowa Code section 321.25(1), a dealer certification containing the dealer’s number and signed by the dealer or an authorized representative of the dealer, including signature by electronic means, containing the following information:

(1)Sale price of the vehicle.

(2)The amounts allowed for property traded in.

(3)Nontaxable charges and rebates.

(4)The tax price of the vehicle.

(5)The date that a “Registration Applied For” card was issued, and the registration fee collected.

i.If an application is being made to lower the tonnage on any motor truck, bus or truck tractor, the county treasurer may require a copy of a stamped weigh ticket issued by any public scale.

j.If leased, the lease price of the vehicle and the lessor’s leasing license number if the entity is required to have a leasing license. A federal employer identification number is not required to be listed for an entity with a leasing license number.

k.If requested by the department, whether the vehicle is a driverless-capable vehicle as defined in rule 761—380.2(321). The department may also use a separate form to assess the vehicle’s driverless capability.

400.3(2) Information about owner, lessee and primary user. A firm, association, corporation, or trust that is not required to have a federal employer identification number shall disclose the social security number, Iowa driver’s license number or Iowa nonoperator’s identification card number of an authorized representative of the firm, association, corporation, or trust. The authorized representative of a trust is the trustee unless otherwise specified in the trust agreement or the certification of trust as defined in Iowa Code section 633A.4604.

400.3(3) Affidavit of correction. As provided in Iowa Code section 321.23A, the county treasurer or the department may accept an affidavit of correction on a form prescribed by the department.

a.The affidavit may be used only to correct those errors, erasures or alterations listed on the affidavit.

b.The affidavit must be signed by the parties that made the error, erasure or alteration.

c.The affidavit must be surrendered with the document that contains the error, erasure or alteration.

d.The affidavit may be accepted to correct errors, erasures or alterations on either an Iowa title or a foreign title.

400.3(4) Electronic applications. The department will authorize electronic submission of applications for certificate of title and registration by an authorized ERT service provider pursuant to the authority in Iowa Code section 321.20(2). To be authorized to serve as an ERT service provider, the ERT service provider must comply with the department’s ERT policy and execute a provider agreement with the department.

a.An application submitted electronically must meet all legal requirements for the applicable transaction, and no requirement is excused or waived as a result of submitting the transaction electronically. However, wherever a signature is required, the signature may be an electronic signature. Wherever an electronic solution approved by the department requires the submission of scanned documents, the scanned documents shall be of a quality and resolution determined by the department. The department and any county treasurer processing an application retain the right under Iowa Code sections 321.13 and 321.30 to determine the genuineness, regularity, and legality of the application and any scanned document submitted as part of the application and may withhold approval of the application and require presentation of the original document whenever the scanned document is of insufficient quality, content, or appearance. An end user shall retain all such documents for a period of six months from the date of submission of the application by the end user and make all such documents available for inspection by the department upon request. Anything in this paragraph notwithstanding, lessors required to retain a damage disclosure statement under Iowa Code section 321.69(4), and authorized vehicle recyclers licensed under Iowa Code chapter 321H and motor vehicle dealers licensed under Iowa Code chapter 322 required to retain damage disclosure statements under Iowa Code section 321.69(6) shall retain the original document for a period of five years from the date of the statement as required therein.

b.An end user that electronically submits an application on behalf of the owner or owners to whom the end user is transferring or delivering the vehicle shall disclose to all owners or, if there is more than one owner and the title application uses “or” between the names of the owners, at least one owner, that the application will be submitted electronically and shall obtain written authorization from all owners, or if there is more than one owner and the title application uses “or” between the names of the owners, written authorization from at least one owner, to submit the application on the owner’s behalf. The written authorization shall be retained by the end user for a period of six months from the date of application and be made available for the department’s inspection upon request. Before submitting the application, the end user shall review and disclose to the owner or owners all details of the application and provide a complete, true, and accurate copy of the application to the owner or owners immediately after submitting the application. The written authorization shall be submitted in the form and manner required by the department.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.1, 321.8, 321.20, 321.23 through 321.26, 321.31, 321.34, 321.46, 321.105A, 321.109, 321.122, 321.515, 321.519 and 423.26.

761—400.4(321,322,633A) Supporting documents and processing requirements.

400.4(1) New vehicle. An application for a new vehicle must be accompanied by a manufacturer’s certificate of origin, properly assigned to the applicant. A manufacturer’s certificate of origin is not acceptable if the assignment to the applicant is made by any person other than the manufacturer, importer or distributor, a licensed motor vehicle dealer franchised to sell that line-make of vehicle, or a final-stage manufacturer motor vehicle dealer licensed under rule 761—425.11(322).

a.The first person, including a dealer not franchised to sell that line-make of vehicle, who is assigned the manufacturer’s certificate of origin shall obtain a certificate of title and register the vehicle.

b.An uncanceled security interest noted on the reverse side of a manufacturer’s certificate of origin (MCO) shall be noted as a separate security interest on the certificate of title, in addition to any security interest acknowledged by the applicant, unless the security interest acknowledged by the applicant is the same as the one noted on the reverse side of the MCO.

c.For a 1980 or subsequent model year vehicle manufactured by a person other than the original manufacturer, both the original manufacturer’s certificate of origin and the final-stage manufacturer’s certificate of origin shall be submitted if the vehicle’s original line-make is changed by the final-stage manufacturer. The final-stage manufacturer’s certificate of origin shall contain all assignments or reassignments of ownership of the vehicle and list the original manufacturer’s vehicle identification number. The face of the original manufacturer’s certificate of origin is to be stamped in bold type with the statement: “Final-stage manufacturer’s MCO has been issued on this vehicle.”

d.If a final-stage manufacturer is a motor vehicle dealer licensed under rule 761—425.11(322), the final-stage manufacturer may reassign the original manufacturer’s certificate of origin or an incomplete or intermediate MCO to the retail buyer.

400.4(2) Used vehicle registered or titled in this state. The last issued certificate of title, properly assigned to the applicant, shall be submitted, unless the applicant is an insurer applying for a salvage certificate of title under Iowa Code section 321.52(4). An uncanceled security interest noted on the face of the certificate of title shall be noted on the face of the certificate of title issued to the applicant, in addition to any security interest acknowledged by the applicant. If the vehicle is not subject to titling provisions, the last issued registration receipt or bill of sale, properly assigned to the applicant, shall be submitted.

400.4(3) Used vehicle from a foreign jurisdiction. If the vehicle was subject to the issuance of a certificate of title in the foreign jurisdiction, the certificate of title issued by the foreign jurisdiction to the applicant or properly assigned to the applicant shall be submitted unless the applicant is an insurer applying for a salvage certificate of title under Iowa Code section 321.52(4).

a.A security interest, noted on the face of the foreign certificate of title, which has not been canceled, shall be noted on the face of the certificate of title issued to the applicant, in addition to any security interest acknowledged by the applicant.

b.A certificate of title issued in a foreign jurisdiction may be assigned to a motor vehicle dealer in another jurisdiction, and the dealer may reassign the certificate of title to the applicant. Unless a regulation of the foreign jurisdiction provides otherwise, an assignment or reassignment form issued by any foreign jurisdiction may be used with any foreign title to complete an assignment or reassignment of ownership from a foreign motor vehicle dealer to the applicant, provided the ownership chain is complete.

c.An Iowa licensed motor vehicle dealer who acquires a vehicle registered in a foreign jurisdiction may reassign the foreign certificate of title to the applicant as provided in Iowa Code section 321.48(2) and rule 761—400.24(321,322).

d.A person who registers a foreign vehicle under Iowa Code section 321.23(3) will be issued a nontransferable-nonnegotiable registration. To transfer ownership of the vehicle, the owner must first obtain an Iowa certificate of title except as provided in Iowa Code section 321.23(3) when ownership is transferred to an Iowa licensed motor vehicle dealer or an insurance carrier authorized to do business in Iowa.

e.If the vehicle was not subject to the issuance of a certificate of title but was registered in the foreign jurisdiction, the registration document issued by the foreign jurisdiction to the applicant or properly assigned to the applicant shall be submitted.

(1)If the foreign registration document is not issued in the applicant’s name and does not contain an assignment of ownership form, a bill of sale conveying ownership from the owner as listed on the foreign registration document to the applicant shall be submitted with the foreign registration document.

(2)Upon receipt of the foreign registration document, the county treasurer shall issue a nontransferable—nonnegotiable registration unless the foreign registration document has been approved by the department.

(3)Acceptance of the foreign registration document is determined by the department on an individual basis, if the county treasurer of the county where the certificate of title is to be issued cannot determine whether the document is acceptable.

f.If a trailer weighing 2,000 lbs. or less is exempt from the issuance of a certificate of title and registration in the foreign jurisdiction, a bill of sale conveying ownership to the applicant, if acquired by a resident from a nonresident, or an affidavit of ownership signed by the applicant, if the applicant is establishing residence in this state, shall be submitted.

g.If a motor vehicle is exempt from the issuance of a certificate of title and registration in the foreign jurisdiction, the bonding procedures as provided in Iowa Code section 321.24 shall be followed.

400.4(4) Used vehicle acquired by a resident of this state from a federal government agency. If the vehicle was acquired from an agency of the federal government, the applicant shall surrender the government bill of sale, General Services Administration Form 97, or Internal Revenue Service Form 2435, properly assigned to the applicant.

400.4(5) Manufactured or mobile home. If the vehicle described on the application is a manufactured or mobile home with an Iowa title, the applicant shall submit a tax clearance form to show that no taxes are owing, unless the title has been issued to a manufactured or mobile home retailer licensed under Iowa Code chapter 103A. The form may be obtained by any owner of record of the manufactured or mobile home from the county treasurer.

400.4(6) Vehicle acquired by a resident of this state by operation of law. Iowa Code section 321.47 applies to a vehicle acquired by the applicant by operation of law under the conditions specified in Iowa Code section 321.47. Acceptable proof of ownership includes but is not limited to a foreclosure sale affidavit, artisan’s or storage lien affidavit, affidavit of death testate or intestate, abandoned vehicle sales receipt, peace officer’s bill of sale or court order.

400.4(7) Foreign ownership document issued in a language other than English. The county treasurer may require an applicant to produce a written English translation of a foreign ownership document or other supporting document issued in a language other than English.

400.4(8) Titles from foreign jurisdictions.

a.Except as provided in paragraph 400.4(8)“b,” the department will not accept a certificate of title issued by a foreign jurisdiction if the title or assignments thereon contain an alteration or erasure.

b.An affidavit of correction form issued by a foreign jurisdiction that corrects the certificate of title issued by the same foreign jurisdiction will be accepted only for the reason listed on the affidavit of correction form. However, acceptance of an affidavit of correction form that corrects an odometer statement or a designation will be determined by the department on an individual basis.

400.4(9) Applications in the name of trusts. An application in the name of a trust must be accompanied by a copy of all documents specifying the required signatories of the trust or by the certification of trust as defined in Iowa Code section 633A.4604. A certification of trust must meet the requirements of Iowa Code section 633A.4604, including but not limited to providing the names of all the currently acting trustees. If there are two or more currently acting trustees, the certification of trust must state whether the trustees may act individually, whether the trustees must act by majority decision or whether the trustees must act by unanimous decision. If the certification of trust does not meet said requirements, the certification of trust will be considered invalid for the purposes of the application. Each signature on the application shall be followed by the words “as trustee.”

400.4(10) Driverless-capable vehicles. If an application is made for a driverless-capable vehicle, the department may require the application to be accompanied by the operational design domain.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.20, 321.23, 321.24, 321.30, 321.31, 321.45 through321.50, 321.67, 321.515, 321.519, 322.3 and 633A.4604.

761—400.5(321) Where to apply for registration or certificate of title.

400.5(1) Application shall be made to the department’s motor vehicle division for the following:

a.Titling and registration of vehicles owned by the government. This requirement does not apply to manufactured or mobile homes subject to a public bidder sale as explained in Iowa Code section 321.46(2).

b.Registration of vehicles exempted under Iowa Code section 321.19.

c.Registration of private school buses.

d.Registration of vehicles under the provisions of Iowa Code section 321.23(4), relating to restricted-use vehicles.

e.Registration of apportioned vehicles under Iowa Code chapter 326. More information contained in 761—Chapter 500.

400.5(2) Application for a certificate of title for a vehicle subject to apportioned registration under Iowa Code chapter 326 may be made to either the county treasurer or to the department’s motor vehicle division.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.18, 321.91, 321.20, 321.22, 321.23, 321.46(2) and 321.170.

761—400.6(307,321) Addresses, information and forms. Assistance under this chapter is available as follows:

400.6(1) Information and forms for vehicle registration, certificate of title, or other procedures covered under Iowa Code sections 321.18 through 321.20B, 321.22 through 321.26, 321.28 through 321.32, 321.34, 321.35, 321.37 through 321.63, 321.65 through 321.74, 321.78, 321.79, 321.81, 321.84 through 321.106, 321.109 through 321.113, 321.115 through 321.117, 321.119 through 321.135, 321.145, 321.148 through 321.162 and 321.165 through 321.171 may be obtained from the county treasurer or by mail from the Motor Vehicle Division, Iowa Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 9278, Des Moines, Iowa 50306-9278; in person at Iowa Department of Transportation, 6310 SE Convenience Boulevard, Ankeny, Iowa 50021; by telephone at 515.237.3110; or on the department’s website at www.iowadot.gov.

400.6(2) Information for investigations under this chapter may be obtained from the Bureau of Investigation and Identity Protection, Iowa Department of Transportation, 6310 SE Convenience Boulevard, Ankeny, Iowa 50021; or on the department’s website at www.iowadot.gov/biip/home.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and 321.20.

761—400.7(307,321) Information appearing on title or registration. In addition to the requirements of Iowa Code sections 321.24, 321.52, 321.69, 321.71 and 322G.12, a certificate of title or registration receipt or both shall contain the following information when applicable:

400.7(1) Registration expiration date.

400.7(2) Registration month, as explained in rule 761—400.3(321).

400.7(3) Description of the vehicle, including the following items. These items may be represented on the title and registration by code letters or numbers.

a.Vehicle identification number.

b.Type, such as automobile, trailer, truck, etc.

c.Make, model, and model year.

d.Color.

e.Weight and registered gross weight.

f.The square footage of floor space of a manufactured or mobile home or travel trailer as determined by measuring the exterior.

g.The odometer mileage and whether the mileage is “actual,” “not actual,” or “exceeds mechanical limits.”

400.7(4) Previous Iowa title number or the name of the foreign jurisdiction if the previous title is a foreign title.

400.7(5) Plate number.

400.7(6) List price or value.

400.7(7) Penalties and title, registration and security interest receipt numbers.

400.7(8) The following phrase stamped on the reassignment portion of a manufactured or mobile home title: “Dealer reassignment not authorized on this certificate of title.”

400.7(9) The designation required by 761—Chapter 405. A vehicle may have no more than one designation.

400.7(10) Full legal name of owner.

a.When the name of an owner changes from that which is printed on the title or registration issued to the owner, the owner shall apply for a replacement registration receipt and submit to the county treasurer one of the following documents:

(1)Court order for a name change. The court order must contain the full name, date of birth, and court seal.

(2)Divorce decree.

(3)Marriage certificate.

b.This subrule does not apply to owners that are firms, associations, corporations, or trusts.

400.7(11) Driverless-capable vehicle indicator, which may also indicate whether operational restrictions exist.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,”321.24, 321.31, 321.40, 321.45, 321.52, 321.69, 321.71, 321.124, 321.515, 321.519 and 322G.12.

761—400.8(307,321) Release form for cancellation of security interest.

400.8(1) A secured party may note the cancellation of a security interest on any of the following:

a.Form 411168 (Cancellation of Security Interest).

b.The secured party’s letterhead if the written statement is notarized and contains the same information as Form 411168.

c.The certificate of title containing the cancellation pursuant to Iowa Code section 321.50(5)“a.”

400.8(2) The secured party shall forward the cancellation form or statement to the county treasurer or to the department if the title was issued by the department. The county treasurer or department may accept facsimiles or photocopies. A separate form or statement is required for each vehicle.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and 321.50.

761—400.9(307,321) Assignment of security interest. A security interest noted on a certificate of title may be assigned to another secured party without losing the seniority of the security interest by complying with the procedure in Iowa Code section 321.50 or with the following procedure:

400.9(1) Notice of assignment. In the cancellation portion of the title certificate, the secured party listed on the title certificate shall make the notation “Assigned to (name of assignee)” where the security interest is noted and include the date, name of secured party and signature of the person noting the assignment.

400.9(2) Application for notation of security interest. The assignee shall complete, and sign in the space where the signature of the owner is ordinarily required, Form 411046 (Application for Notation of a Security Interest).

400.9(3) Submission of documents to county treasurer. The certificate of title, application for notation of security interest and appropriate notation fee shall be submitted to the county treasurer.

a.If there are additional security interests noted on the certificate of title, the seniority of the assignee’s security interest may be preserved by issuance of a certificate of title in lieu of the original, on which the assignee’s security interest will be noted in the same seniority as the assignor’s security interest.

b.A receipt for notation of security interest form processed by a county treasurer shall list the following:

(1)A new receipt number.

(2)The original notation date.

(3)The words “by assignment” following the name of the assignee.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and 321.50.

761—400.10(307,321,809A) Sheriff’s levy, restitution lien, and forfeiture lien noted as security interests.

400.10(1) A sheriff’s levy may be noted as a security interest on a certificate of title by completing Form 411046. The sheriff or sheriff’s deputy shall sign the application in the space where the signature of the owner is ordinarily required and submit with the appropriate notation fee to the county treasurer.

400.10(2) A restitution or forfeiture lien may be noted as a security interest on a certificate of title by completing Form 411046. The county attorney or the county attorney’s designee shall sign the application in the space where the signature of the owner is ordinarily required and submit to the county treasurer.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and 321.50 and chapter 809A.

761—400.11(307,321) Replacement certificate of title. Application for a replacement certificate of title shall be made on Form 411033 (Application for Replacement of Iowa Certificate of Title to a Motor Vehicle). All living owners of the vehicle as listed on the certificate of title shall sign Form 411033 unless the application is made by a lienholder. If all owners are deceased, a court-appointed executor or administrator may complete, sign, and submit Form 411033 along with a certified copy of the court order or the letter of appointment confirming executor or administrator status.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and 321.42.

761—400.12(321) Bond required before title issued.

400.12(1) Procedures. An applicant for a certificate of title who cannot provide the supporting documents required in rule 761—400.4(321) is required to comply with the procedure under Iowa Code section 321.24(11), in addition to this rule.

a.The applicant shall submit a bond application and supporting material to the motor vehicle division on a form prescribed by the department.

b.The department will search the department’s vehicle title and registration system to determine if there is an owner of record or security interest for the vehicle and if the vehicle has been reported stolen or embezzled.

(1)If an owner of record is found, the department will mail a release letter by first-class mail to the owner of record at the owner’s last-known address notifying the owner of the right to claim ownership of the vehicle or to waive all rights or claims.

(2)If the owner of record makes a claim, the motor vehicle division will review the claim.

(3)If the department receives no response from the owner of record within ten days after the date of mailing, the owner of record waives all rights or claims; or if the letter is returned as undeliverable, the department will continue processing the bond application.

(4)If one or more security interests are found and can be identified, the department will send a certified letter and application for cancellation of security interest to a lienholder at the last-known address of that lienholder. If a lienholder releases the lien, the department will continue to process the application. If a lienholder responds with a request to claim the vehicle, the department will review the claim. If the certified letter is returned as undeliverable, the department will continue to process the application.

(5)If one or more security interests is found but a lienholder cannot be identified because the record is held by another jurisdiction, the department will return the application to the applicant and inform the applicant which jurisdiction holds the record(s) to the vehicle.

c.If the department determines that there is sufficient evidence to indicate that the applicant is the rightful owner, and that there is no known unsatisfied security interest, the department is authorized to determine the current value of the vehicle and notify the applicant to deposit cash or file a surety bond with the department in an amount equal to one and one-half times the current value of the vehicle.

d.A motor vehicle investigator of the department may verify information in the application, examine the vehicle, and authorize the county treasurer to issue a title for and register the vehicle. An investigator may require the applicant to drive the vehicle to and from the examination location upon completing Form 420054, Affidavit to Operate a Vehicle for Inspection. Should the vehicle not meet the equipment requirements of Iowa Code chapter 321, the investigator may authorize the county treasurer to issue a title and registration but instruct the county treasurer to immediately suspend the registration until such time as the vehicle meets these equipment requirements. If applicable, the investigator will also affix an assigned vehicle identification number to the vehicle.

400.12(2) Denial. If the department determines that the applicant has not complied with this rule, that there is sufficient evidence to indicate that the applicant may not be the rightful owner, or that there is an unsatisfied security interest, then the department will not authorize issuance of a certificate of title or registration receipt and will notify the applicant in writing of the reason(s).

400.12(3) Junked vehicle. A certificate of title will not be reinstated for a vehicle that has been issued a junking certificate unless the junking certificate was issued in error, as explained in rule 761—400.23(321), or the vehicle qualifies as an antique vehicle under Iowa Code section 321.115(1).

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.24 and 321.52.

761—400.13(307,321) Authorized signatories for a transfer of ownership. The following procedures shall apply for all titling and registration purposes:

400.13(1) Transfer of vehicle owned by two or three persons. If the names of the owners of a vehicle on the certificate of title, the manufacturer’s certificate of origin, or the registration receipt for a vehicle that does not require a title are joined by the word “or,” as in “John Doe, Jane Doe or Mary Doe,” then the signature of any of these owners is sufficient to transfer ownership or to junk the vehicle. In all other cases the signature of each named owner is required.

400.13(2) Assignment of title to two or three persons. If a certificate of title, a manufacturer’s certificate of origin, or a bill of sale for a vehicle that does not require a title is assigned to two or three persons with their names joined by the word “or,” as in “John Doe, Jane Doe or Mary Doe,” then a certificate of title or registration receipt for a vehicle that does not require a title may be issued to any one of these persons, or to any two or all three of these persons with their names joined by the word “or.” However, a certificate of title or registration for a vehicle that does not require a title shall only be issued to persons who have signed the application for title and registration.

400.13(3) Organizational ownership.

a.When a vehicle is owned by a partnership, corporation, association, governmental unit, or private organization, the signature of its authorized representative is required.

b.When a vehicle is owned by a trust, the title shall be accompanied by a copy of all documents creating or otherwise affecting the trust or by the certification of trust as defined in Iowa Code section 633A.4604.

(1)The certification of trust may be signed by any trustee or the attorney for any trustee.

(2)The title shall be signed by the number of trustees as specified in the trust agreement, and the transferor shall provide the department with the document or the certification of trust specifying the required signatories for the trust.

(3)If a certification of trust is provided, one of the following shall apply:

1.Any currently acting trustee may sign the title if the certification of trust states that such trustee may act individually.

2.A majority of the trustees must sign the title if the certification of trust states that the trustees must act by majority decision.

3.All currently acting trustees must sign the title if the certification of trust states that the trustees must act by unanimous decision.

(4)A certification of trust must meet the requirements of Iowa Code section 633A.4604, including but not limited to providing the names of all the currently acting trustees. If there are two or more currently acting trustees, the certification of trust must state whether the trustees may act individually, whether the trustees must act by majority decision or whether the trustees must act by unanimous decision. If the certification of trust does not meet said requirement, the certification of trust will be considered invalid for the purposes of the transfer.

(5)Each signature on the title shall be followed by the words “as trustee.”

400.13(4) Death with a will. When ownership is transferred according to a decedent’s will, a certified copy of the court order or the letter of appointment appointing the person assigning the title as executor of the will shall be required.

400.13(5) Death without a will. When ownership is transferred from a decedent without a will and there is no administration of the estate, a notarized affidavit of death intestate form shall be required. When ownership is transferred from a decedent without a will but there is an administration of the estate, a copy of the court order or the letter of appointment appointing the person assigning the title as administrator shall be required.

400.13(6) Power of attorney. An attorney in fact may act for the living owner(s) if the appointment is shown on a power of attorney form. Power of attorney forms are available from the department, but other forms or a certified true copy may be accepted if they contain all necessary information.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.20, 321.24, 321.45, 321.47, 321.49, 321.67 and 633A.4604.

761—400.14(307,321) Cancellation of a certificate of title.

400.14(1) The department will cancel a certificate of title when authorized by any provision of law or when it has reasonable grounds to believe that the person holding the certificate of title, purportedly issued for the vehicle, has no immediate right to possession of the vehicle.

400.14(2) The decision to take any action regarding ownership of the vehicle for which the current title has been canceled will be determined after an investigation and recommendation by a motor vehicle investigator of the department.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and 321.101.

761—400.15(307,321) Application for certificate of title or original registration for a vehicle that is specially constructed, reconstructed, a street rod or a replica vehicle.

400.15(1) Definitions applicable to this rule.

a.“Ownership document for the vehicle” means the certificate of title, the manufacturer’s certificate of origin, the junking certificate, or other evidence of ownership acceptable to the department.

b.“Ownership documents for essential parts” means bills of sale for all essential parts used to construct or reconstruct the vehicle. Each bill of sale shall contain a description of the part, the manufacturer’s identification number of the part, if any, and the name, address, and telephone number of the seller.

400.15(2) Procedures. This subrule describes the procedures for obtaining department approval to title and register a vehicle that is specially constructed, reconstructed, a street rod or a replica vehicle. The procedures described are in addition to the regular procedures for titling and registering a vehicle.

a.The applicant shall apply to the county treasurer for a certificate of title and registration. The county treasurer, upon receiving an application that indicates the vehicle is specially constructed, reconstructed, a street rod or a replica vehicle, shall forward the application to a motor vehicle investigator of the department.

b.The investigator will contact the applicant and schedule a time and place for an examination of the vehicle and the ownership documents. An investigator may require the applicant to drive or tow the vehicle to and from the examination location upon the applicant’s completion of Form 420054. The applicant, when appearing with the vehicle for the examination, shall submit to the investigator the ownership document for the vehicle, the ownership documents for essential parts, and a weigh ticket indicating the weight of the vehicle. However, a weigh ticket is not required for motorcycles, autocycles, trucks, truck tractors, road tractors or trailer-type vehicles.

c.If the investigator determines that the vehicle complies with 761—Chapter 450, that the integral parts and components have been identified as to ownership, and that the application has been completed properly:

(1)The investigator will approve the application, affix to the vehicle an assigned vehicle identification number, and return the application and ownership documents to the applicant. The investigator will authorize the county treasurer to issue a title and registration for the vehicle.

(2)If the vehicle is a passenger-type motor vehicle, the department is authorized to determine its weight and value and if the vehicle is subject to the electric vehicle annual registration fee. The vehicle weight shall be fixed as provided in Iowa Code section 321.162. The weight and value shall constitute the basis for determining the annual registration fee under Iowa Code section 321.109, except as provided in Iowa Code section 321.113.

(3)The applicant shall then submit the ownership document for the vehicle to the county treasurer and continue with the regular title and registration process.

400.15(3) Disapproval. If the department determines that the vehicle does not comply with 761—Chapter 450, that the integral parts or components have not been identified as to ownership, or that the application has not been completed properly, then the department will not approve the vehicle for titling and registration.

400.15(4) Model year. The model year of a specially constructed or reconstructed motor vehicle is the year the vehicle is approved by the department as a specially constructed or reconstructed motor vehicle.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.20, 321.23, 321.24, 321.52, 321.109, 321.116, 321.117 and 321.162.

761—400.16(307,321) Temporary use of vehicle without plates or registration receipt.

400.16(1) Temporary use of vehicle without plates. A person who acquires a vehicle that is currently registered or in a dealer’s inventory at the time of sale and who does not possess registration plates that may be assigned to and displayed on the vehicle may operate or permit the operation of the vehicle not to exceed 30 days from the date of purchase or transfer without registration plates displayed thereon, if ownership evidence is carried in the vehicle.

400.16(2) Temporary use of vehicle without registration receipt. A person who acquires a vehicle that is currently registered or in a dealer’s inventory at the time of sale and who has possession of plates which may be attached to the vehicle acquired may operate or permit the operation of the vehicle not to exceed 45 days from the date of delivery or transfer without a registration receipt, if ownership evidence is carried in the vehicle.

400.16(3) Ownership evidence. Ownership evidence under this rule shall consist of the certificate of title or registration receipt, or a photocopy thereof, properly assigned to the person who has acquired the vehicle, or a bill of sale conveying ownership of the vehicle to the person who has acquired the vehicle. The ownership evidence shall be shown to any peace officer upon request.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.25 and 321.46.

761—400.17(307,321) Registration of motor vehicle weighing 55,000 pounds or more. When applying for registration or renewal of registration for a motor vehicle weighing 55,000 pounds or more, the owner shall present to the department or to the county treasurer proof of compliance with the federal heavy vehicle use tax required by 26 CFR Part 41 in effect as of April 1, 2021.

400.17(1) If the motor vehicle is used exclusively in the transportation of harvested forest products, the owner may present a written statement certifying that usage and the usage will be recorded.

400.17(2) If the motor vehicle is used primarily for farming purposes, the owner may present a written statement certifying that usage and the usage will be recorded.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.30 and 321.20.

761—400.18(307,321) Registration of vehicles on a restricted basis. The department may register a vehicle that does not meet the equipment requirements of Iowa Code chapter 321, due to the particular use for which it is designed or intended, or which is a driverless-capable vehicle as defined in rule 761—380.2(321). Registration may be accomplished upon payment of the appropriate fees and after inspection and certification by the department that the vehicle is not in an unsafe condition.

400.18(1) Operation of the vehicle may be restricted to a roadway to which a specific lawful speed limit applies, as specified in Iowa Code section 321.285, if the maximum speed of the vehicle is such that the operation of the vehicle would impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.

400.18(2) The department may also restrict the operation of the vehicle to daylight hours if operation of the vehicle during hours other than daylight would create a hazard.

400.18(3) The department will issue a certificate of restriction in conjunction with registration of the vehicle, listing the restrictions that apply to the operation of the vehicle.

a.Registration laws applicable to motor vehicles in general shall also apply to vehicles registered under a restricted registration.

b.The department may approve exceptions to those equipment requirements of Iowa Code chapter 321 which cannot be met due to the particular use for which the vehicle is designed or intended.

400.18(4) When a vehicle registered in this state is modified to make it a driverless-capable vehicle as defined in rule 761—380.2(321), the person in whose name the vehicle is registered shall within 30 days notify the department upon a form prescribed by the department.

400.18(5) As provided in Iowa Code sections 321.515 and 321.519, the department may restrict the operations of a driverless-capable vehicle registered in this state or another state but that operates in this state. The restrictions may include but are not limited to the restrictions provided in subrules 400.18(1) and 400.18(2) and any operational restrictions based on a specific functional highway classification, weather conditions, days of the week, times of day, and other elements of operational design while the automated driving system is engaged. The department may require the vehicle owner to submit to the department the automated driving system’s intended operational design domain for the vehicle on a form prescribed by the department. The department may evaluate the automated driving system’s intended operational design domain for the vehicle. The department may establish additional operational restrictions to ensure safe operation of the vehicle. The department shall issue a certificate of restriction as provided in subrule 400.18(3) for any restriction established under this subrule, and the certificate shall be carried in the vehicle and made available for inspection by any peace officer upon request.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.1, 321.23(4), 321.30(2), 321.101(1), 321.515 and 321.519.

761—400.19(307,321) Transfers of ownership by operation of law. For a vehicle transferred by operation of law under Iowa Code section 321.47 that is not currently registered in this state, the registration fee and penalties due shall be computed as follows:

400.19(1) If the vehicle is ordered confiscated or forfeited by a court under a judgment or forfeiture, the fee shall be computed on the remaining unexpired months in the registration year from the date of the court order.

400.19(2) If the vehicle is sold on a peace officer’s bill of sale as an unclaimed, stolen, embezzled or abandoned vehicle, or as a vehicle seized under Iowa Code section 321.84, the fee shall be computed on the remaining unexpired months in the registration year from the date of the sale.

400.19(3) If the vehicle is sold or transferred under a judgment or order entered by a court in a civil action or proceeding, or is transferred under any provision of Iowa Code section 321.47 that is not covered in this subrule, the fee shall include any delinquent fees that have accrued during previous registration periods and accrued penalties. Penalties shall continue to accrue until paid.

400.19(4) If the vehicle was last titled or registered in a foreign state, the fee shall be based on the month the vehicle becomes subject to registration in this state, except as provided in subrules 400.19(1) and (2) above.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.47, 321.105, 321.106, 321.134 and 321.135.

761—400.20(321,321H) Junked vehicle.

400.20(1) Junking certificate. The owner of a vehicle that is to be junked or dismantled shall obtain a junking certificate when required by Iowa Code section 321.52.

400.20(2) Required verification.

a.One of the following shall satisfy the required verification when a vehicle owner junks or dismantles a vehicle to a licensed vehicle recycler under Iowa Code section 321.52(2)“b” or 321H.4A(2)“b”:

(1)The owner or authorized representative provides information to the licensed vehicle recycler who acquires the vehicle, including, at a minimum, government-issued photo identification and verification of prior reporting to the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS). For a subsequent transaction with the licensed vehicle recycler, the vehicle owner or authorized representative is not required to provide government-issued photo identification if the licensed vehicle recycler has retained such information from a prior transaction. A licensed vehicle recycler is not required to report a vehicle verified under this subparagraph to the NMVTIS.

(2)The vehicle’s owner is a licensed vehicle recycler or is the authorized representative of an established commercial or industrial business, operating from a fixed location, that is known to the licensed vehicle recycler to be regularly engaged in the junking or dismantling of vehicles or may reasonably be expected to produce vehicles for junking or dismantling and has entered into a written agreement with the licensed vehicle recycler confirming it has reported the vehicles to the NMVTIS. The written agreement shall, at a minimum, contain the owner’s or authorized representative’s name and address. A licensed vehicle recycler is not required to report a vehicle covered under an agreement under this subparagraph to the NMVTIS.

(3)The licensed vehicle recycler obtains the vehicle owner’s or authorized representative’s name and the vehicle identification number for the vehicle being junked or dismantled, and the vehicle recycler reports the vehicle to the NMVTIS.

b.A licensed vehicle recycler acquiring a vehicle as described under this subrule shall cooperate with a law enforcement agency during normal business hours when the agency has reason to believe that fraud has occurred in connection with the junking or dismantling of the vehicle. A law enforcement agency shall maintain the information as confidential and shall not disclose the information to a third party, except as may be necessary for the prosecution of a criminal violation.

400.20(3) Retitling a junked vehicle. The department may authorize issuance of a new certificate of title to the vehicle owner named on the junking certificate only if the department determines that the junking certificate was issued in error.

a.The reasons a junking certificate was issued in error include but are not limited to the following:

(1)The owner inadvertently surrendered the wrong certificate of title. The owner shall submit to the department a photocopy of the ownership document for each vehicle and a signed statement explaining the circumstances that resulted in the error.

(2)A junking certificate was obtained in error and the vehicle continues to be registered. The owner shall submit to the department a photocopy of the current registration and a signed statement explaining the circumstances that resulted in the error.

(3)The owner intended to apply for a salvage title under Iowa Code section 321.52(4) but inadvertently submitted an application for a junking certificate. The owner shall submit to the department a bill of sale or other documentation from the previous owner stating that the vehicle was rebuildable when purchased and a signed statement explaining the owner’s original intention to obtain a salvage title. The department shall inspect the vehicle to verify the rebuildable condition.

b.If the department determines that the junking certificate was issued in error, the department will authorize the proper county treasurer to issue a certificate of title for the vehicle after payment by the owner of appropriate fees and taxes, including the return of any credit or refund for registration fees paid to the owner because of the error.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.52 and 321H.4A.

761—400.21(307,321) Annual vehicle registration fee. The registration fee shall be computed on the month of purchase or transfer of a vehicle, except that the registration fee on a vehicle acquired outside of this state shall be based on the month that the vehicle was brought into Iowa.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.105 and 321.135.

761—400.22(307,321) Fees established by the department. If the department cannot obtain the retail list price and weight for a particular motor vehicle model registered under Iowa Code section 321.109(1), the department shall determine a list price and weight.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.109, 321.157 and 321.159.

761—400.23(321) Anatomical gift. Voluntary contributions collected by the county treasurer or the department to the anatomical gift public awareness and transplantation fund shall be a minimum of $1. The county treasurer and the department will remit contributions collected monthly to the funds specified in Iowa Code section 321.44A.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code section 321.44A.

761—400.24(307,321,322) Vehicles held for resale or trade by dealers. A motor vehicle dealer, as defined in Iowa Code section 321.1, is authorized to hold a motor vehicle for resale or trade under the following conditions.

400.24(1) Assignment to dealer. The certificate of title or manufacturer’s certificate of origin for the vehicle shall be assigned to the dealer by the seller. The seller shall complete the assignment portion of the form, including the date of sale or trade and the name and address of the dealer, and shall sign the form. The date of the sale or trade shown in the assignment portion of the form shall be the date the dealer acquired the vehicle.

400.24(2) New certificate of title and registration not required.

a.A motor vehicle held for resale by a dealer or registered in Iowa at the time of sale or trade to a dealer may be held by that dealer without obtaining a new certificate of title or a new registration if the dealer holds for that vehicle a certificate of title or a manufacturer’s certificate of origin properly assigned to the dealer.

b.A motor vehicle may also be held by a dealer without obtaining a new certificate of title or a new registration if the dealer has a title properly assigned to the dealer from a state that permits its titles to be reassigned by Iowa dealers and if a vacant reassignment space is available on the title.

400.24(3) New certificate of title required. A dealer shall obtain a new certificate of title under the procedures in Iowa Code section 321.20(1) but is not required to pay registration fees for a vehicle if the application for title is made within 30 days of vehicle transfer date and if any of the following conditions apply:

a.The vehicle has been registered in a foreign state or country that does not permit its titles to be reassigned by Iowa dealers.

b.The vehicle was assigned to the dealer using an affidavit of foreclosure form prescribed by the department or issued by a foreign jurisdiction.

c.All reassignment spaces of the certificate of title have been used.

d.The vehicle registration fee was delinquent in Iowa at the time the vehicle was acquired by the dealer. The delinquent fees and penalty shall be paid by the dealer from the first day the registration was due to the month the application for title is submitted.

e.In accordance with 761—Chapter 405, the dealer is required to obtain a salvage certificate of title.

400.24(4) New certificate of title and registration fee required. A dealer shall obtain both a new certificate of title and pay a registration fee for a vehicle if:

a.The vehicle has a foreign certificate of title but has never been registered and the dealer is not licensed under Iowa Code chapter 322 to sell that line-make of vehicle. The registration fee due shall be prorated for the remaining unexpired months of the dealer’s registration year.

b.The vehicle was placed in storage by the previous owner. The registration fee due shall be computed from and commence the month the vehicle is removed from storage.

c.The vehicle has been registered in a foreign state or country that does not permit its titles to be reassigned by Iowa dealers and the application for a new certificate of title is submitted more than 30 days after the date the vehicle entered Iowa. The registration fee due shall be prorated for the remaining unexpired months of the dealer’s registration year.

d.The vehicle has been registered in a foreign state or country and all reassignment spaces on the title are full and the application for a new certificate of title is submitted more than 30 days after the last available reassignment space is used. The registration fee due shall be prorated for the remaining unexpired months of the dealer’s registration year.

e.The vehicle was in the dealer’s inventory and the dealer’s license was revoked as provided in Iowa Code chapter 322 or 322C or surrendered in lieu of revocation. The dealer shall obtain title and registration within 30 days from the date of revocation or surrender of the license. The registration fee due shall be prorated for the remaining unexpired months of the registration year.

400.24(5) Registration fee required. A vehicle owned by a dealer and used as a work or service vehicle, or offered for lease, rent or hire, shall become subject to a registration fee in the month that the vehicle is first used for that purpose. The registration fee shall be due annually unless the vehicle is transferred to the dealer’s inventory. To transfer the vehicle, the dealer shall surrender the registration plates that were issued for the vehicle.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.20, 321.45, 321.46, 321.48, 321.49, 321.67, 321.70, 321.104 and 321.126 and chapter 322.

761—400.25(321) Special trucks. The owner of a truck tractor registered as a special truck shall certify to the owner’s county treasurer annually at the time of renewal that the truck tractor is not operated more than 15,000 miles annually.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.1(75) and 321.121.

761—400.26(307,321) Registration of vehicles registered in another state or country.

400.26(1) The registration fee for a vehicle from another state or country shall be due in the month that the vehicle becomes subject to registration in Iowa.

400.26(2) A vehicle registered in another state or country shall become subject to registration in Iowa and payment of the Iowa registration fee beginning in either of the following:

a.The month of sale or transfer to an Iowa resident.

b.The month that a nonresident owner establishes Iowa residency or accepts employment in Iowa of 90 days duration or longer. The county treasurer or the department may require from the applicant a written statement giving the date that the applicant established residency in Iowa.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.18, 321.20, 321.53 through 321.55, 321.101 and 321.135.

761—400.27(307,321) Vehicles owned by nonresident members of the armed services.

400.27(1) A vehicle owner who is a nonresident and a member of the armed services is not required to register the vehicle in Iowa if it is properly registered in the person’s state of residence.

400.27(2) A vehicle owner who is a nonresident and a member of the armed services may register the vehicle in Iowa under the following conditions:

a.The vehicle is owned entirely by nonresidents.

b.The fee for a passenger-type vehicle registered under Iowa Code section 321.109 shall be based only on the weight of the vehicle; the part of the fee based on value shall be excluded. The fees for all other vehicles shall be determined as specified in Iowa Code chapter 321. The registration fee under Iowa Code sections 321.116 and 321.117 shall apply.

c.The application for vehicle registration shall include a certification by the person’s commanding officer of the person’s state of residence and assignment to Iowa.

400.27(3) If ownership of a passenger-type vehicle is transferred to another person, the vehicle shall be subject to registration in Iowa.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.53 through 321.55, 321.109, 321.116 and 321.117.

761—400.28(307,321,321L) Registration of vehicles equipped for persons with disabilities. To apply for the reduced registration fees under Iowa Code section 321.109(1)“b” or 321.124(1)“h”(1)(f), the owner of the vehicle must provide a written self-certification at the first registration and at each renewal of either of the following:

400.28(1) That the automobile, multipurpose vehicle, or motor truck with an unladen weight of 10,000 pounds or less has permanently installed equipment manufactured for and necessary to assist a person with a disability, as defined in Iowa Code section 321L.1, to enter or exit the vehicle.

400.28(2) That the owner or a member of the owner’s household uses a wheelchair as the person’s only means of mobility.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.109, 321.124 and 321L.1.

761—400.29(321) Motorcycle or autocycle primarily designed or converted to transport property. A motorcycle or autocycle primarily designed or converted to transport less than 1,000 pounds of property will be registered as a motorcycle or autocycle. A motorcycle or autocycle primarily designed or converted to transport 1,000 pounds of property or more will be registered as a motor truck.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.1, 321.20 and 321.117.

761—400.30(307,321) Conversion of motor vehicles.

400.30(1) An automobile converted to a truck with a carrying capacity of 1,000 pounds or more will be registered as a reconstructed motor vehicle.

400.30(2) A vehicle manufactured as a truck tractor or motor truck will not be registered as a motor home unless the vehicle has been substantially altered to change its type and mode of operation so that it is a reconstructed vehicle as defined in Iowa Code section 321.1.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.1, 321.23, 321.111 and 321.124.

761—400.31(321,435) Manufactured or mobile home converted to or from real property.

400.31(1) Conversion to real property. When a manufactured or mobile home is converted to real property under Iowa Code section 435.26, the process shall be as follows:

a.If a security interest is noted on the title and the secured party is given a mortgage for the land on which the home is located, the assessor shall collect the certificate of title as provided in rule 701—74.5(435).

b.If a security interest is noted on the title and the secured party is not given a mortgage for the land on which the home is located, the secured party shall retain the certificate of title as provided in Iowa Code section 435.26. At the time the security interest is released, the secured party may surrender the certificate of title to the county treasurer, who shall cancel the title as converted to real estate and destroy the title.

c.If there is no security interest noted on the title, the owner shall surrender the certificate of title to the assessor. The assessor shall note the conversion on the face of the certificate of title above the assessor’s signature, date the notation and deliver the title to the county treasurer. The county treasurer shall note the conversion on the vehicle record and then cancel the title as converted to real estate and destroy the certificate of title.

d.If the assessor identifies in the county records a security interest no longer exists that would prevent the title to the home and the title to the land to merge under Iowa Code section 435.26 and the county treasurer verifies there is no lien on the certificate of title, the title to the home and the title to the land shall merge, and the county treasurer shall cancel the title as converted to real estate and destroy the certificate of title, if available.

400.31(2) Reconversion from real property.

a.When a manufactured or mobile home is reconverted from real property by adding a vehicular frame, the owner may apply to the county treasurer for a certificate of title.

b.The owner shall submit a record of existing liens obtained from a local abstracter. The record shall identify the owner of the property, list all liens and encumbrances against the property, and shall be signed by the abstracter.

c.The owner shall also submit written consent to the reconversion from any person holding a mortgage on the real property (mortgagee). An existing mortgage shall be noted as a security interest on the certificate of title.

d.The county treasurer shall submit written notice of the reconversion to the county assessor’s office.

400.31(3) Affidavit for surrender of certificate of title.

a.As provided in Iowa Code section 435.26B, an owner may effectuate a surrender of the certificate of title by recording with the county recorder Form 411186 if all of the following requirements are met:

(1)There is no record that a certificate of title has been issued or surrendered for a manufactured or mobile home that is located outside a manufactured home community or mobile home park.

(2)The manufactured home or mobile home has been converted to real estate by being placed on a permanent foundation.

(3)The manufactured or mobile home is entered on the tax rolls.

b.The fee for the duties performed by the department pursuant to Iowa Code section 435.26B(1)“i”(2) shall be $5.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.1, 435.1, 435.26, 435.26A, 435.26B and 435.27.

761—400.32(307,321) Church bus registration fee. If ownership of a church bus registered under Iowa Code section 321.119 is transferred to a person not entitled to register the vehicle as a church bus or the bus is used in a manner other than provided by law, the church bus shall be registered under the provisions of Iowa Code section 321.122. The registration fee shall be prorated for the remaining unexpired months of the registration year.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.119 and 321.122.

761—400.33(307,321) Storage of vehicles.

400.33(1) The owner of a vehicle upon which the registration fee is not delinquent may surrender all registration plates for the vehicle to the county treasurer where the vehicle is registered and has the right to register the vehicle later upon payment of the annual registration fee due, which shall be computed from and commence the month the vehicle is removed from storage. Payment of a registration fee is not required when the vehicle is removed from storage within the current registration year, provided that registration fees have not been refunded. Surrendered plates shall be destroyed. When a vehicle is removed from storage, the fee is $5 for a set of replacement plates.

400.33(2) The owner of a motor vehicle that is placed in storage when the owner enters the military service of the United States shall comply with Iowa Code section 321.126, and subrule 400.33(1) does not apply.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.126 and 321.134.

761—400.34(307,321) Penalty on registration fees.

400.34(1) Monthly basis. The penalty on the delinquent payment of a registration fee shall be computed on a monthly basis, rounded to the nearest whole dollar. If multiple penalties are assessed, the penalties shall be first added together and then the sum shall be rounded to the nearest whole dollar.

400.34(2) Vehicle purchased. The penalty on the registration fee shall accrue from the first day of the month following the date of purchase unless the application for a certificate of title is submitted within 30 days after the date of purchase.

400.34(3) Vehicle moved into Iowa. The penalty on the registration fee shall accrue on the first day of the month following 30 days from the date a vehicle is moved into Iowa.

400.34(4) When delinquency extends beyond the current year. When the penalty on a delinquent registration fee extends beyond the current registration year, the penalty shall continue to accrue until paid or until the provision of Iowa Code section 321.134(4) takes effect. Penalty shall only accrue on the fee applicable at the time the delinquency accrued and shall not be applicable to subsequent registration fees that have not been paid.

400.34(5) Statement of nonuse. If the owner of a vehicle, on which the registration fees have not been paid for more than three complete registration years, certifies to the county treasurer of the owner’s residence, or to the department on Form 442018 if a vehicle is registered under Iowa Code chapter 326, that the vehicle has not been moved or operated upon the highway since the year it was last registered, the vehicle may be registered upon payment of the current year’s registration fee.

400.34(6) Waiver of penalties for military members. Registration penalties will be waived as provided in Iowa Code section 321.134(5), if the owner provides a copy of an official government document verifying that the applicant is in the military service of the United States and has been relocated as a result of being placed on active duty on or after September 11, 2001.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.39, 321.46, 321.47, 321.49, 321.134 and 321.135.

761—400.35(252J,307,321) Suspension, revocation or denial of registration.

400.35(1) A peace officer, county treasurer, or the county treasurer’s designee may submit a request using Form 411012, Request for Cancellation of Title or Revocation or Suspension of Registration and Plates, or 411013, Request for Suspension of Registration and Plates, as applicable, to the department for suspension or revocation of registration and plates under Iowa Code section 321.101.

a.The notice of suspension or revocation will contain the following:

(1)The basis of the suspension or revocation.

(2)Information regarding how the person may satisfy the violation and have the suspension or revocation removed, if applicable.

(3)Information notifying the person of the right to appeal the suspension or revocation in accordance with rule 761—400.44(321).

b.Reserved.

400.35(2) When the registration of a vehicle has been revoked as provided in Iowa Code sections 321.101 and 321.101A, the registration fee and penalty shall accrue as if the plates had never been issued, unless waiver of registration fees and penalties is specifically provided for in Iowa Code chapter 321.

400.35(3) Pursuant to Iowa Code section 252J.8, the department will suspend or deny the issuance or renewal of registration and plates upon receipt of a certificate of noncompliance from child support services.

a.The suspension or denial takes effect 30 days after notice to the vehicle owner and continues until the department receives a withdrawal of the certificate of noncompliance from child support services.

b.If a person who is the named individual on a certificate of noncompliance subsequently purchases a vehicle, the vehicle will be titled and registered, but the registration will be immediately suspended.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 252J.1, 252J.8, 252J.9, 307.12(1)“j,”321.101, 321.101A and321.127.

761—400.36(307,321) Termination of suspension of registration. Upon termination of the suspension of registration of a vehicle, the county treasurer may issue new plates for the vehicle. If the new plates replace a current series of plates, there shall be a replacement fee as provided in Iowa Code section 321.42. If the vehicle is not currently registered at the time the suspension is lifted, the registration fee and penalties due shall be determined as follows:

400.36(1) If the registration fee was delinquent at the time that the suspension became effective, the penalty shall continue to accrue on the registration fee until the suspension became lifted and the registration fee is paid. In addition, if the suspension was for failure to pay an additional registration fee, the additional registration fee shall be paid before the suspension is lifted.

400.36(2) If the registration fee was not delinquent when the suspension became effective and the suspension is lifted after the beginning of another registration year, the annual registration fee for that year shall be due in the month the suspension is lifted. The penalty shall accrue on the registration fee the first day of the month following the month that the suspension was lifted. The annual registration fee on a recovered stolen vehicle for which the registration has been suspended shall be prorated for the remaining unexpired months of the registration year.

400.36(3) If the registration fee was not delinquent at the time that the suspension became effective and the suspension is lifted during the same registration period, no additional registration fees shall be due unless the suspension was for failure to pay an additional registration fee, in which event the additional registration fee shall be paid before the suspension is lifted.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,”321.42, 321.105 and 321.134.

761—400.37(307,321) Raw farm products. A vehicle may be operated with a gross weight of 25 percent in excess of the gross weight for which it is registered when transporting a load of raw farm products or soil fertilizers under Iowa Code section 321.466 except that nothing in this rule shall be construed to allow operation of a special truck on the public highways with a gross weight exceeding the maximum gross weight allowed under Iowa Code section 321.463(6). In addition, the following products are considered raw farm products. This list is not exhaustive and does not exclude other commodities that might be considered raw farm products:

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,”321.466(4) and 321.466(5).

761—400.38(25,307,321,326) Refund of registration fees.

400.38(1) Vehicles registered by county treasurer.

a.The department will refund annual registration fees for vehicles registered by the county treasurer pursuant to Iowa Code section 321.126.

b.Except as provided in Iowa Code section 321.126, the owner may submit a claim for refund to the county treasurer’s office in any county.

c.Registration plates shall be submitted with the claim if the vehicle is placed in storage or registered for apportioned registration, if the owner of the vehicle moves out of state, or if the plates have not been assigned to a replacement vehicle, unless the plates have been surrendered to a licensed dealer in Iowa that has submitted the title and registration application under Iowa Code section 321.25. If one or both plates have been lost or stolen, the claimant shall certify this fact in writing.

d.For a vehicle that was junked, the date on the junking certificate determines the date the vehicle was junked.

e.If the claim for refund is for excess credit or no replacement vehicle:

(1)The county treasurer will, within three days of receipt of the claim for refund, provide the information required to process the refund to the department.

(2)The department is authorized to approve or deny the claim.

f.The county treasurer shall forward all other claims for refund to the department for processing in the form and manner prescribed by the department.

400.38(2) Vehicles registered by the department. Forms and instructions for claiming a refund on apportioned registration fees under Iowa Code section 326.15 may be obtained from the department at the address in subrule 400.6(1).

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 25.1, 307.12(1)“j,”321.126 through 321.129 and 326.15.

761—400.39(307,321) Assigned identification numbers. The department is authorized to issue to the owner an assigned vehicle identification number for a vehicle, an assigned component part number for a component part, and an assigned product identification number for a fence-line feeder, grain cart, or tank wagon. An identification number will be assigned only if the department is satisfied as to the true identity and ownership of the vehicle, component part, fence-line feeder, grain cart or tank wagon. When an assigned vehicle identification number has been issued for a vehicle, the vehicle will be registered and titled under that number. An assigned component part number or an assigned product identification number shall be used only for identification purposes.

400.39(1) Issuance of an identification number. The department will issue an assigned vehicle identification number, assigned component part number or assigned product identification number, as applicable, only if:

a.The original number has been destroyed, removed or obliterated.

b.The vehicle has had a cab, body, or frame change and the replacement cab, body, or frame is within the manufacturer’s interchangeability parts specifications catalog and is compatible with the make, model, and year of the vehicle. If the replacement cab, body, or frame change is not within the manufacturer’s interchangeability parts specifications catalog or is not compatible with the make, year, and model of the vehicle, the vehicle shall be considered reconstructed and subject to rule 761—400.16(321).

c.The vehicle is specially constructed, reconstructed, a street rod or a replica vehicle. More information is contained in rule 761—400.15(321) for the requirements and procedures applicable to vehicles that are specially constructed, reconstructed, street rods or replica vehicles.

400.39(2) Procedures.

a.Request. Whenever an assigned identification number is required under subrule 400.39(1) and the request does not apply to a vehicle that is specially constructed, reconstructed, a street rod or a replica vehicle, the owner of the vehicle, component part, fence-line feeder, grain cart or tank wagon, or the person holding lawful custody, shall contact the department’s motor vehicle division at the address in subrule 400.6(1) and request the assignment of a number.

b.Examination. A motor vehicle investigator will contact the owner and schedule a time and place for examination of the vehicle, component part, fence-line feeder, grain cart or tank wagon and ownership documents. An investigator may require the owner to drive or tow the vehicle to and from the examination location upon the applicant’s completion of Form 420054. If the vehicle has had a cab, body, or frame change, the owner shall have, for evidence of ownership for the replacement cab, body, or frame, a bill of sale with a description of the part, complete with the manufacturer’s identification number, if any, and the name, address, and telephone number of the seller. The bill of sale, the vehicle, and the cab, body, or frame that has been replaced shall be made available for examination at the time and place scheduled.

c.Assigned vehicle identification number.

(1)The investigator upon approval of the request will affix to the vehicle an assigned vehicle identification number and authorize the county treasurer to issue a title and registration for the vehicle.

(2)The owner shall submit the certificate of title and the registration receipt issued for the vehicle to the county treasurer. If the certificate of title is in the possession of a secured party, the county treasurer will notify the secured party to return the certificate of title to the county treasurer for the purpose of issuing a corrected title. Upon receipt of the notification, the secured party shall submit the certificate of title within ten days. The county treasurer, upon receipt of the certificate of title and the registration receipt, will issue a corrected title and registration receipt listing as the vehicle identification number the assigned vehicle identification number.

d.Assigned component part number. The investigator upon approval of the request will affix to the component part an assigned component part number and give to the owner a component part form. The owner shall retain the form as a record of issuance and attachment. The form shall be made available on demand by any peace officer for examination.

e.Assigned product identification number. The investigator upon approval of the request will affix an assigned product identification number to the fence-line feeder, grain cart or tank wagon and give to the owner an assigned product identification number form. The owner shall retain the form as a record of issuance and attachment. The form shall be made available on demand by any peace officer for examination.

400.39(3) Fees. A county treasurer, as provided in Iowa Code section 321.20(1), may issue a corrected certificate of title upon collection of the certificate of title fee and a fee for a notation of a security interest, if applicable. A corrected certificate of title is not required for a name change.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,”321.1, 321.20, 321.43, 321.50, 321.52A and 321.92.

761—400.40(321) Odometer statement.

400.40(1) Pursuant to Iowa Code section 321.71 and 49 U.S.C. Section 32705, an odometer disclosure statement shall be submitted with an application for certificate of title for a motor vehicle unless the motor vehicle is exempt. The statement shall provide a current odometer reading and reflect whether the mileage is “actual,” “not actual” or “exceeds mechanical limits.”

400.40(2) If the transferor failed to provide an odometer disclosure statement or if the transferee lost the statement, and the transferee has attempted in good faith to contact the transferor to obtain a statement, the transferee may file a sworn statement of these facts on a form prescribed by the department. The sworn statement will be accepted by the county treasurer or the department in lieu of the required odometer disclosure statement. The subsequent title issued from the sworn statement will record “not actual” mileage.

400.40(3) As required by 49 CFR Section 580.17 in effect as of October 1, 2024, for vehicle transfers that occur through December 31, 2030, any vehicle that is model year 2011 or newer shall require an odometer disclosure statement. For vehicle transfers that occur on or after January 1, 2031, the model year formula for odometer disclosure statements is the current year minus 20. The resulting number represents the first model year for which a motor vehicle is exempt from the odometer statement requirements incident to a transfer.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code section 321.71.

761—400.41(321) Stickers.

400.41(1) Placement of validation sticker. The validation sticker shall be affixed to the lower left corner of the rear registration plate. EXCEPTIONS: For motorcycle, autocycle and small trailer plates, the validation sticker shall be affixed to the upper left corner of the plate. For natural resources plates, the sticker may be affixed to the lower right corner of the rear plate.

400.41(2) Special fuel identification sticker. Iowa Code section 321.41(4) applies to special fuel identification stickers. This sticker shall be displayed on the cover of the fuel inlet of the motor vehicle or on the outside panel of the motor vehicle within 3 inches of the fuel inlet so as to be in view when fuel is delivered into the motor vehicle.

400.41(3) Persons with disabilities parking sticker. A persons with disabilities special registration plate parking sticker shall be affixed to the lower right corner of the rear registration plate. A persons with disabilities parking sticker shall be affixed to the lower left corner of the flying our colors rear registration plate and above the validation sticker to allow for full view of all numerals and letters printed on the plate pursuant to Iowa Code section 321.37.

400.41(4) Special truck for farm use sticker. An owner of a special truck, registered pursuant to Iowa Code section 321.121, who has been issued either regular registration plates or special registration plates other than special truck registration plates must obtain from the county treasurer a sticker that distinguishes the vehicle as a special truck. The sticker shall be affixed to the lower right corner of the rear registration plate. EXCEPTION: If the vehicle displays front and rear plates, two stickers shall be issued with one sticker affixed to the lower right corner of the front plate and rear plate. For natural resources plates and flying our colors plates, the stickers must be affixed to the lower left corner of the front and rear plates.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.34, 321.37,321.40, 321.41, 321.121 and 321.166.

761—400.42(307,321) Registration receipt issued for trailer-type vehicles. The registration receipt issued for trailer-type vehicles shall be carried in the vehicle that is described on the receipt or in the driver’s compartment of the towing vehicle.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and321.32.

761—400.43(321) Damage disclosure statement.

400.43(1) If the transferor failed to provide a damage disclosure statement or if the transferee lost the statement, and the transferee has attempted in good faith to contact the transferor to obtain a statement, the transferee may file a sworn statement of these facts. The transferee shall also complete section 2 of a separate damage disclosure statement and sign on the buyer’s line. The sworn statement and damage disclosure statement completed by the transferee will be accepted by the county treasurer or the department in lieu of the damage disclosure statement required from the transferor.

400.43(2) A model year formula for damage disclosure statements shall be the current year minus eight. The resulting number represents the first model year for which a motor vehicle is exempt from the damage disclosure statement requirements incident to a transfer.

400.43(3) If the transferor completes the damage disclosure on the assignment of title at the time of application for title, a transferor or transferee of a vehicle may submit a separate damage disclosure statement, Form 411108, indicating the damage level of the vehicle and whether the damage level exceeds 70 percent.

a.If the transferor signs both the damage disclosure on the assignment of title and the separate damage disclosure statement, Form 411108, the county treasurer shall accept the separate damage disclosure statement.

b.If the transferee signs the separate damage disclosure statement, Form 411108, the county treasurer shall accept the separate damage disclosure statement only if the separate damage disclosure statement indicates the damage level exceeds 70 percent. If the transferee’s statement indicates the damage level is less than 70 percent, and there is no evidence that a prior Iowa title or foreign title was issued or designated as salvage, rebuilt or flood, the department will review the transaction to confirm the damage level using data obtained from the insurance provider, motor vehicle repair facility, or other entity with direct knowledge of the damage.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.52 and 321.69.

761—400.44(17A,321) Hearings. The department will send notice by certified mail to a person whose certificate of title, vehicle registration, license, or permit is to be revoked, suspended, canceled, or denied under this chapter. The notice will be mailed to the person’s mailing address as shown on departmental records and takes effect after 20 days from the date mailed. A person who is aggrieved by a decision of the department and who is entitled to a hearing may contest the decision in accordance with 761—Chapter 13. The request shall be submitted in writing to the director of the motor vehicle division at the address in subrule 400.6(1). The request for a contested case shall be deemed timely submitted if it is delivered or postmarked on or before the 20th day from the date the notice was mailed for revocation, suspension, cancellation, or denial.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 17A.10 through 17A.19, 321.101 and 321.102.

761—400.45(321) Motorized bicycles. The following rules shall apply to motorized bicycles.

400.45(1) Maximum speed. If the department has reason to believe that a particular vehicle or model is capable of speeds exceeding 39 miles per hour, the department may conduct independent tests to determine the maximum speed of the vehicle or model. If the department determines that the maximum speed of the particular vehicle or model exceeds 39 miles per hour, the vehicle or model will not be registered as a motorized bicycle.

400.45(2) Identification of a vehicle as a motorized bicycle. Registration plates issued for motorcycles will also be issued for motorized bicycles.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.1, 321.13 and 321.166.

761—400.46(307,321) Registration documents lost or damaged in transit through the United States postal service. To obtain without cost the reissuance of registration documents that were sent by the county treasurer to the owner through the United States postal service and that were lost or damaged in transit, the owner of the vehicle shall file application for reissuance between 20 and 60 days of the date the documents were issued by the county treasurer.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and 321.42.

761—400.47(307,321) Credit of registration fees.

400.47(1) Credit for unexpired registration fee. The applicant may claim credit, as specified in Iowa Code section 321.46(3), toward the registration fee for one newly acquired replacement vehicle.

a.The credit may be claimed only when the owner of the newly acquired vehicle is applying for a certificate of title and registration (or just registration if the vehicle is not subject to titling provisions) for the newly acquired vehicle.

b.For a junked vehicle, the date on the junking certificate determines the date the vehicle was junked.

c.Excess credit shall not be applied toward the registration fee for a second vehicle.

d.Credit shall be allowed for one or two vehicles that have been sold, traded or junked toward one replacement vehicle. Credit shall be based on the remaining unexpired months of the registration year(s) of the vehicle(s) sold, traded or junked.

400.47(2) Credit for transfer to spouse, parent or child. Credit shall be allowed toward a new registration for a vehicle being transferred to the applicant from the applicant’s spouse, parent or child, or from a former spouse pursuant to a dissolution of marriage decree, if application for the certificate of title and registration (or just registration if the vehicle is not subject to titling provisions) is made within 30 days after the date of transfer. If the owner is deceased, credit may be transferred under rule 761—400.13(321).

400.47(3) Credit from/to apportioned registration.

a.Pursuant to Iowa Code section 321.46A, an owner may claim credit toward the registration fees due when changing a vehicle’s registration from apportioned registration under Iowa Code chapter 326 to registration under Iowa Code chapter 321. The owner shall surrender proof of apportioned registration to the county treasurer. Credit shall be allowed for the unexpired complete calendar months remaining in the registration year from the date the application is filed with the county treasurer.

b.Pursuant to Iowa Code sections 321.126 and 321.127, the owner or lessee of a motor vehicle may claim credit for the apportioned registration fees due when changing the vehicle’s registration from registration by the county treasurer to apportioned registration. Application for apportioned registration shall be submitted to the department’s motor vehicle division; more information is contained in 761—Chapter 500.

400.47(4) Assignment of credit and registration plates from lessor to lessee. When a lessee purchases the leased vehicle and within 30 days requests the assignment of the vehicle’s fee credit and registration plates, the lessor shall assign the registration fee credit and registration plates for the purchased vehicle to the lessee.

400.47(5) Rounding. If credit from two registration years or two registration fees, or some combination of both, is available, the credits shall first be added together, then it shall be determined whether the sum meets the minimum required under Iowa Code section 321.46(3)“c,” and then the sum shall be rounded to the nearest whole dollar.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.46, 321.46A, 321.48, 321.116, 321.117, 321.126 and 321.127.

761—400.48(321) Reassignment of registration plates.

400.48(1) Registration plates may be reassigned if one of the owners listed on the registration receipt before the transfer is also a listed owner following the transfer.

400.48(2) Registration plates may be reassigned when credit is allowed toward a new registration for a vehicle being transferred to the owner’s spouse, parent, or child, or to a former spouse pursuant to a dissolution of marriage decree. If the owner is deceased, plates may be transferred under rule 761—400.13(321).

400.48(3) Registration plates shall not be reassigned between a natural person or persons and a corporation, association, copartnership, company, or firm.

400.48(4) Registration plates may be reassigned and credit allowed if two or more corporations, associations, partnerships, or firms merge into one corporation, association, partnership or firm.

400.48(5) Registration plates may be assigned and credit allowed if an owner listed on the certificate of title and registration transfers ownership of the vehicle to a trust created by that owner.

400.48(6) Registration plates may be assigned and credit allowed if an owner listed on the certificate of title and registration transfers ownership of the vehicle from a living trust to an individual owner who created that trust and vice versa.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 321.34 and 321.46.

761—400.49(307,321) Storage of registration plates, certificate of title forms and registration forms. Registration plates, certificate of title forms and registration forms that are consigned to county treasurers by the department shall be stored in a secure location only accessible to authorized persons as designated by the county treasurer or department.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.5, 321.8 and 321.167.

761—400.50(307,321) Disposal of surrendered registration plates. The county treasurer shall return plates that have been surrendered to the county treasurer to Iowa state prison industries for recycling.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j,” 321.5 and 321.171.

761—400.51(307,321) County treasurer’s report of motor vehicle collections and funds. The county treasurer shall file the report provided for in Iowa Code section 321.153 in a manner prescribed by the department.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and 321.153.

761—400.52(321) Removal of registration and plates by peace officer under financial liability coverage law. This rule applies to instances when a peace officer issues a citation and removes the registration receipt and registration plates of a motor vehicle registered in this state when the driver of the motor vehicle is unable to provide proof of financial liability coverage. This rule applies regardless of whether the vehicle was also impounded.

400.52(1) The peace officer shall forward the registration receipt and evidence of the violation to the county treasurer of the county in which the motor vehicle is registered. Evidence of the violation is one of the following:

a.A copy of the citation. The citation must either reference Iowa Code section 321.20B(4)“a”(3) or 321.20B(4)“a”(4), as applicable, or reference Iowa Code section 321.20B and indicate whether or not the vehicle was impounded.

b.A written statement from the peace officer listing the plate number of the registration plate removed from the vehicle and the vehicle owner’s name. The statement must either reference Iowa Code section 321.20B(4)“a”(3) or 321.20B(4)“a”(4), as applicable, or reference Iowa Code section 321.20B and indicate whether or not the vehicle was impounded. The statement must be signed by the peace officer or an employee of the law enforcement agency.

400.52(2) The peace officer may either destroy removed plates or deliver the removed plates to the county treasurer for destruction.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code section 321.20B.

761—400.53(307,321) Electronic lien and title.

400.53(1) The department may authorize the use of an electronic lien and title (ELT) system to provide an electronic record of the certificate of title to a security interest holder, to subject a vehicle to an electronic lien, and to allow for the submission and receipt of forms related to security interests through electronic means.

a.The department may enter into an agreement with ELT providers for transmission of vehicle data, title data and forms necessary to process security interest transactions through electronic means.

b.The department may authorize an ELT lender to participate in the ELT system if the ELT lender has first established a service relationship with an authorized ELT provider. The department may establish application forms and approval processes as necessary for ELT lenders.

400.53(2) For each individual transaction, an authorized ELT lender may choose to use either the ELT process or the paper security interest process as provided in Iowa Code section 321.50 and rules 761—400.8(321) and 761—400.9(321).

400.53(3) If a security interest is released through ELT and there are no other secured parties, but the ELT lender does not request a paper title to be printed and provided to the owner, or the ELT lender does not otherwise provide a paper title to the owner, then the owner of the vehicle may apply to the county treasurer or the department for a certificate of title to be printed and provided to the owner by submitting an application form in the form and manner prescribed by the department.

a.If there is more than one owner of the vehicle, any owner may apply to the department or the county treasurer, as applicable, for the certificate of title to be printed and provided to whomever the owner specifies.

b.If an owner is deceased, the signatures and documents specified in subrules 400.13(4) and 400.13(5) shall be required.

This rule is intended to implement Iowa Code sections 307.12(1)“j” and 321.50.

[Filed 4/14/25, effective 6/18/25]

[Published 5/14/25]

EDITOR’S NOTE: For replacement pages for IAC, see IAC Supplement 5/14/25.