Where to get your Iowa driver's license in Ames

The Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) issues driver's licenses, and in Ames you can explore at the Story County Driver's License Station located at 2401 East 13th Street. This is the main office serving Ames residents. You can also renew by mail or online if you meet certain conditions, but first-time applicants and those with expired licenses longer than a year must visit in person.

The Story County station is open Monday through Friday, typically 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though hours can vary seasonally. It's wise to check the Iowa DOT website or call ahead before you go, because wait times can be long during peak hours — early morning or mid-week afternoons tend to be quieter. You do not need an appointment; service is first-come, first-served.

Key Takeaways

  • The Story County Driver's License Station at 2401 East 13th Street in Ames is where you explore for a new license or renew in person.
  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of Iowa residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
  • A standard Iowa driver's license costs $20 for an eight-year term, and you will pay an additional fee if you need a Real ID-compliant license.
  • If your license expired less than one year ago, you can renew online or by mail; longer expirations require an in-person visit.
  • Iowa allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires, so you can handle it before a trip or move.

What documents you need to bring

Iowa requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. For identity, bring a passport, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license. A birth certificate alone is not enough — it must be paired with another document like a school ID or employee badge.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with a current Ames address. A bank statement or insurance policy also works. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you are moving to Ames or have recently moved, bring the document that shows your current address.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. If you do not have one, you can provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the card or a document showing the number. The DOT will not issue a license without one or the other.

Cost and license types

A standard Iowa driver's license costs $20 and is valid for eight years. If you want a Real ID-compliant license — required for federal buildings, military bases, and domestic air travel starting May 2025 — the cost is $32 for eight years. The difference is that Real ID requires additional identity verification, but the process is the same at the counter.

If you are under 21, the license is valid for four years and costs $10 for a standard license or $16 for Real ID. Renewal fees are the same as the initial fee. Iowa does not charge extra for duplicate licenses if yours is lost or stolen, but you will pay the full renewal fee.

Renewing online or by mail instead of in person

If your Iowa driver's license expired less than one year ago, you can renew online through the Iowa DOT website without visiting the Story County station. You will need your license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method. The online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs the same as renewing in person.

Mail renewal is also an option for licenses expired less than one year. You send your license, a completed renewal form (available on the Iowa DOT website), and payment to the address listed on the form. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. If your license expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person at the Story County station.

What to expect during your visit

When you arrive at the Story County Driver's License Station, check in at the front desk and take a number. You will wait for your number to be called. Bring all your documents — staff will verify your identity and residency before you proceed. You will answer questions about your driving history and any medical conditions that might affect your ability to drive.

You will then take a new photo for your license. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in; the photo will be on your license for eight years. After that, you will pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to your address. The permanent license usually arrives within one to two weeks.

Vision and written test requirements

If you are explore for your first Iowa license or renewing after a lapse of more than one year, you must pass a vision screening at the counter. This is a straightforward test using a machine; you look through it and read letters or numbers. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test.

You do not take a written knowledge test when renewing a license you already hold. If you are explore for your first license or upgrading to a commercial license, you will need to pass the written test. The test covers Iowa traffic laws and safe driving practices. You can study using the Iowa Driver's Manual, available free on the Iowa DOT website. The test is taken on a computer at the station and takes about 15 minutes.

Changing your name or address on your license

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document showing the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You can update your address at the same time you renew, or you can change your address alone by visiting the station with proof of your new Ames address and your current license.

Address changes are free and do not require a new photo or fee. The DOT will issue you a new license with the updated address, valid for the remainder of your current license term. If you move out of Ames, you should update your address with the Iowa DOT within 10 days of moving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Iowa license if I moved out of state?

No. Iowa only renews licenses for people who live in Iowa. If you have moved to another state, you must obtain a license from that state's motor vehicle department. You can keep your Iowa license as a form of ID, but you cannot legally drive with it in another state.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Visit the Story County Driver's License Station and bring your identity and residency documents. You will pay the full renewal fee ($20 for standard, $32 for Real ID) and receive a temporary paper license while your replacement is printed. There is no extra charge for a duplicate or replacement.

Do I need a Real ID license to drive in Iowa?

No. A standard Iowa driver's license is legal for driving anywhere in the state and the country. Real ID is only required if you plan to enter a federal building, military base, or board a domestic airplane. If you do not need it, the standard license is cheaper.

How long does it take to get a new license after my visit?

You receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days on the day of your visit. Your permanent plastic license is mailed to your address and usually arrives within one to two weeks. If it does not arrive within three weeks, contact the Iowa DOT to check the status.

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. Iowa allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires. This is useful if you have a trip coming up or plan to move. Renewing early extends your license term from the expiration date of your current license, not from the date you renew.