How to Get Your Driver's License Back After an Iowa DUI Conviction

 

In Iowa, what is typically known as a DUI is actually referred to as an OWI, or Operating While Intoxicated. If you have been convicted of an OWI, you will have your driver’s license suspended for a period of time. In order to get it reinstated, you will have to meet certain requirements.

 

Steps to Getting Your License Reinstated

 

You must show proof of financial responsibility by filing an insurance SR-22 form with the Office of Driver Services. You must also the knowledge test, driving exam, and vision screening. You must also pay a $200 civil penalty, show proof of completion of a course for drinking drivers, present proof of completion of a substance abuse evaluation and treatment or rehabilitation services.

 

Be aware that a license revocation will stay on your record for 12 years.

 

SR-22 Insurance Requirements

 

It’s likely you’re not sure what an SR-22 Certificate of Automobile Liability Insurance is. This is simply a form that verifies that you have the requirement minimum amount of insurance coverage that is required in Iowa for people who have been convicted of a DUI offense. In order to find out if you meet the requirements, you will need to contact your insurance company and adjust your policy accordingly. Then your insurance company can file the necessary SR-22 form with Iowa’s DOT Office of Driver Services. You must maintain this coverage for at least two years. If you stop making your payments to the policy, your insurance company will promptly inform DOT, and your license and registration will be suspended.

 

Temporary Restricted Driving License

 

In some cases, you can start driving legally before your suspension or revocation period is over. You must get a temporary restricted driving license which will allow you to drive only under certain circumstances as decided by the court. For example, you may be allowed to drive to and from work, class, your child’s day care, and medical treatments. You will need to pass all required exams, such as vision, written, and driving tests, pay civil penalties, show proof of financial responsibility, and pay a $20 reinstatement fee. Additionally, in some cases, you may be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle. If you drive for any other reason, the permit will be taken away, and it can affect your license reinstatement in the future.

 

Ignition Interlock Device

 

If you are ordered to have an ignition interlock device installed in your car as a condition of your temporary restricted driving license or your reinstated driving license, you will be responsible for the cost of installation and maintenance. This device works by asking you for a breathalyzer test before you start your car. If it detects alcohol on your breath, it will not start the engine. Also, as you drive, it will ask for more tests. If you don’t pass, the car will not shut down but an alarm will sound, giving you time to pull over and stop the car. If at any time you fail a test, the device will keep a record, which can affect your ability to have your license full reinstated in the future.

 

Here is a list of ignition interlock devices that have been approved by the Division of Criminal Investigation for use in Iowa:

Lifesafer (FC-100) 800-369-3661
Smart Start Ignition Interlock 866-747-8278
CST Intoxalock 877-777-5020
Draeger XT Interlock 800-622-2526
 

Get More Information

 

You can learn more about Iowa OWI laws on the DOT website, call 515-244-9124 or 515-244-8725, or email ods@dot.iowa.gov. You can also mail:

Office of Driver Services
Iowa Department of Transportation
P.O. Box 9204
Des Moines, Iowa 50306-9204
 

If you want legal advice specific to your situation, you should contact an experienced Iowa DUI lawyer.