Iowa · Titles & temp tags

How duplicate titles and in‑transit permits work in Iowa.

Dealer-focused explanation of Iowa duplicate title practices and in‑transit permits dealers issue for up to 15 days, plus buyer 30‑day permits.

High-level dealer workflow Pairs with official Iowa references Not legal advice

Duplicate / replacement titles

Iowa duplicate title overview

Iowa titles are administered through county treasurer offices under the oversight of the Iowa DOT. When a title is lost or badly damaged, the owner requests a duplicate title using the standard title application form and paying the duplicate fee.

Direct the owner to their county treasurer to complete the appropriate Application for Certificate of Title.
County treasurers and the DOT treat duplicate titles as replacements only; ownership and lien changes must follow normal title transfer rules.
Once processed, the duplicate title is mailed or provided according to county practice.

For dealers, the key is verifying Iowa title status early and not promising fast delivery when a duplicate is still in process at the county.

Temporary tags / permits

Iowa in‑transit permits and temporary operation

Iowa provides several mechanisms for temporary operation of vehicles: dealer-issued in‑transit permits and customer-facing temporary operation options.

Dealer in‑transit permits

Dealers can purchase and issue in‑transit permits when delivering vehicles, especially to non‑Iowa residents.
Permits are void 15 days after the date issued and must be displayed in the rear window.
The driver must carry a signed sales invoice showing the sale details.

Registration‑applied‑for and 30‑day permits

Iowa also uses “registration applied for” cards that allow operation for a limited time while registration is being completed.
In some situations, buyers may purchase a 30‑day temporary permit from the county treasurer for a fee.

Your desking and delivery checklists should capture which permit or card is being used, its expiration date, and which county or dealer issued it.