How to Get or Renew a Driver's License in Mills County

Where to get a Mills County driver's license

Mills County does not issue driver's licenses. Iowa driver's licenses are issued only by the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT), which operates a single office in Mills County located in Glenwood. That office handles new licenses, renewals, replacements, and address changes for anyone living in or passing through the county.

The Glenwood DOT office is at 1016 West Street, Glenwood, Iowa 51534. You can reach them by phone at 712-527-4273 during business hours. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and closed on state holidays.

If you cannot reach the Glenwood office or need to know whether a specific service is available that day, you can also contact the Iowa DOT's main customer service line or visit the state DOT website to check hours or schedule an appointment, if appointments are being taken.

Key Takeaways

Iowa driver's licenses come from the Iowa Department of Transportation, not from Mills County, and the only DOT office in Mills County is in Glenwood.
You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or tax ID to get a new license or renew an existing one.
The Glenwood office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and you can call 712-527-4273 to confirm hours or ask about wait times.
Renewals by mail are available in Iowa if you meet certain conditions, such as having a valid license and no medical restrictions, which can save you a trip to the office.

Documents you need to bring

Iowa requires specific documents before the DOT will issue or renew a license. You must bring one form of government-issued photo ID (such as a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license) and proof that you live in Mills County. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your name and current address.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number or, if you do not have one, an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN). If you are renewing and your name has changed since your last license, bring a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Bring your current license if you have one. If you are getting a license for the first time or yours has been lost or suspended, tell the staff when you arrive so they can direct you to the right line or process.

New licenses versus renewals

A new license is issued when you are getting a driver's license for the first time or when your license has expired for more than a certain period (usually three years in Iowa). The process takes longer than a renewal because the DOT must verify your identity and driving history more thoroughly. You will take a written test on traffic laws and a driving test with an examiner.

A renewal is simpler and faster. If your license is still valid or expired less than three years ago, you can renew it without retaking the written or driving test. Renewals usually take 15 to 30 minutes at the office, while new licenses can take an hour or more depending on how busy the office is that day.

Iowa also allows some renewals by mail if you meet the conditions: your license must not be suspended or revoked, you must have no medical restrictions, and you must not be changing your address or name. If you are unsure whether you can renew by mail, call the Glenwood office before you go in.

Fees and payment methods

Iowa driver's license fees vary by license type and how long the license is valid. A standard four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. The DOT office will tell you the exact fee when you arrive, based on what type of license you are getting.

The Glenwood office accepts cash and checks. Some Iowa DOT offices also accept debit and credit cards, but you should call ahead to confirm what payment methods the Glenwood location takes, since this can vary by office.

If you are renewing by mail, you will pay by check or money order and mail it with your process.

What to expect on the day you visit

Arrive early if possible, especially on Friday or mid-morning, when the office tends to be busier. Bring all your documents in one folder so you do not have to search for them at the counter. Have your Social Security number memorized or written down.

When you check in, tell the staff whether you are getting a new license, renewing, or replacing a lost or stolen license. They will direct you to the right window and may give you a number to wait for. If you are getting a new license, you will be sent to take the written test first, then the driving test if you pass.

For a renewal, the staff will verify your documents, take a new photo, and process your process. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

If your license has been suspended or revoked

If your Iowa license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it at the Glenwood office. Suspensions and revocations are handled separately by the Iowa DOT's Driver Services Bureau, and you must resolve the suspension or revocation before you can get a new or renewed license.

Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or driving under the influence convictions. The reason for your suspension will be on any notice you received from the DOT. Call the Driver Services Bureau at the main DOT number to find out what you need to do to clear the suspension.

Once the suspension is lifted, you can go to the Glenwood office to renew or get a new license as normal.

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 you meet the conditions, or you must visit the Glenwood DOT office in person. Call 712-527-4273 to ask whether mail renewal is an option for your situation.

How long does it take to get a new license in the mail?

Your permanent license arrives by mail within one to two weeks after you visit the office. You will receive a temporary paper license on the day you explore, which you can use to drive legally while you wait for the permanent card.

What if I moved to Mills County from another state?

You must get an Iowa license within 30 days of moving to the state. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Mills County, and your other documents to the Glenwood office. You will need to take the written test but may not need to take the driving test, depending on your out-of-state license status.

Can I get a Real ID at the Glenwood office?

Yes. A Real ID is a federal standard that allows you to use your driver's license for air travel and entry to federal buildings. You will need extra documents, such as proof of citizenship or a birth certificate. Ask the staff at the Glenwood office what documents you need to bring for a Real ID when you call or visit.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Go to the Glenwood office and tell the staff you need a replacement. Bring your documents as if you were renewing. You do not need a police report unless you want one for your records. The replacement license costs the same as a renewal and arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.