Does a Seller Remove License Plates in Iowa
1. Remove License Plates Before the Sale
When selling a vehicle in Iowa, you are required to remove the license plates before transferring the vehicle to the buyer. The license plates stay with the seller and should not be transferred to the buyer.
Iowa DOT Vehicle Sale Information
2. Return or Transfer Plates
After removing the plates, you can either return them to the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) or transfer them to a new vehicle. If you’re buying a new car, you can use your existing plates on the new vehicle by transferring them through the DOT.
Iowa DOT License Plate Transfer Information
3. File a Notice of Sale
To protect yourself from any future liability, you should file a Notice of Sale with the Iowa DOT after the sale is completed and the plates have been removed. This ensures that you are no longer responsible for the vehicle.
Iowa DOT - Notice of Sale