Where to go for your Boone County driver's license in Burlington

The Boone County Driver's License Office is located in Burlington, Iowa, and is the place to go for a new driver's license, renewal, or replacement. The office is run by the Iowa Department of Transportation and handles all driver's license transactions for Boone County residents.

You'll find the office at 1106 Story Street in Burlington. Before you go, check the current hours on the Iowa DOT website or call ahead, since hours can change seasonally or due to staffing. Many people find it helpful to call first to confirm they have the right documents, since showing up without what you need means a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • The Boone County Driver's License Office is at 1106 Story Street in Burlington and is operated by the Iowa Department of Transportation.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or tax ID to get a new license.
  • Renewal by mail is an option if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions, which saves a trip to Burlington.
  • The office does not take walk-ins; you must schedule an appointment through the Iowa DOT website or by phone.
  • Bring your current license or ID, even if it is expired, because it speeds up the process.

What documents you need to bring

Iowa requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or tax ID. A current or expired Iowa driver's license counts as proof of identity. If you don't have one, a U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID will work.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. If you don't have your Social Security card, you can bring a tax return or a document issued by a government agency that shows your number.

Bring the originals, not copies. The staff will make copies for you if needed. If any of your documents are in a language other than English, bring the original and an official English translation.

How to schedule an appointment

The Boone County office requires appointments; there are no walk-in slots. You can schedule through the Iowa DOT's online appointment system at dmv.iowa.gov, or call the office directly at the phone number listed on the Iowa DOT website. Online scheduling usually shows available times several weeks out, so you can often find a slot that works for you without a long wait.

When you schedule, you'll choose what type of transaction you need: new license, renewal, replacement, or a name change. Be honest about which one applies to you, because the appointment type determines how long the visit takes and what documents the staff will check first.

Costs and what to expect during your visit

A new Iowa driver's license costs money, and the fee varies depending on whether you want a standard license or an enhanced license that works for border crossings. Check the current fee on the Iowa DOT website before you go, since fees can change. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the office.

Bring your appointment confirmation, your documents, and your current ID if you have one. The visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The staff will verify your documents, take your photo and signature, and ask you to confirm your address and any medical conditions. You'll receive your new license on the spot or by mail within a few days, depending on the type of license.

Renewal by mail if you don't want to visit Burlington

If your license is not yet expired and you have no medical restrictions, you can renew by mail without going to the office. The Iowa DOT mails renewal forms to you before your license expires. Fill out the form, include a new photo if required, and mail it back with the renewal fee. Your new license will arrive by mail.

Renewal by mail takes longer than an in-person visit — usually two to three weeks — so don't wait until the last minute. If your license is already expired, you must visit the office in person to renew.

What to do if you've moved or changed your name

If you've moved within Iowa, you can update your address at the Boone County office during a renewal or replacement visit. Bring proof of your new address, the same way you would for a new license. If you've changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will issue a new license with your updated name and address.

If you've moved out of Boone County but still live in Iowa, you can visit any Iowa driver's license office, not just the one in Burlington. If you've moved to another state, you'll need to get a license from that state instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

Iowa does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions, or you can visit the office in person. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Schedule an appointment for a replacement license at the Boone County office. Bring your proof of identity and residency the same way you would for a new license. You don't need a police report, but having one can speed things up if the office asks questions.

Do I need to take a written test or driving test?

If you already have a valid Iowa license and are renewing, you do not take a test. If you are getting your first license or your license has been expired for more than a year, you will need to pass a written test and a driving test. Ask the office about test scheduling when you call to make your appointment.

How long does a new license take to arrive if I get it by mail?

If you receive your license at the office during your visit, you have it the same day. If the office mails it, it usually arrives within three to five business days. Renewal by mail takes two to three weeks because the form has to travel to you, then back to the office, then back to you again.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring documentation of your ITIN, such as a tax return or letter from the IRS. Call the Boone County office before your appointment to confirm they have what you need.