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Making Vehicle Services Easier to Find

Established in 1974 by the 65th Iowa General Assembly, the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) is responsible for serving the transportation needs of its residents. This department oversees the issuance of driver's licenses and works to promote effective and orderly planning and funding programs to achieve a balanced transportation system.

Iowa Vehicle Statistics

According to the DOT, the total number of vehicles registered in Iowa in 2023 was 4,612,891. The top registered cars were multipurpose vehicles (1,378,916), automobiles (1,063,446), and small regular trailers (468,160).

Due to the high number of registered vehicles, residents in the state experienced significant traffic congestion in 2022, with an average daily traffic of 111,500 vehicles. Unfortunately, this also led to a rise in traffic accidents and fatalities.

In 2020, the number of traffic fatalities in Iowa increased from 343 to 356 in 2021. However, the number decreased to 337 in 2022.

In addition to traffic fatalities, the state also saw a high number of traffic violations in 2022, which include 114,178 speeding convictions and 11,961 seatbelt violation convictions.

Looking at the car sales, the state shows relatively modest figures. In 2023, Iowa only ranked 32nd nationally, with 129,834 sales. The most popular models that dominate the state's car sales include the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, Ram 1500/2500/3500, GMC Sierra, and Chevrolet Equinox, which reflect the state's agricultural and rural landscape.

On a positive note, car insurance costs in Iowa are below national averages. State minimum coverage costs $324 annually, while total coverage averages $1,767 per year.

Number of Vehicles
4.6 million
Data provided by the DOT indicates that in 2023, the number of registered vehicles in Iowa across multiple categories exceeded 4.6 million.
Number of Accidents
337
Traffic accidents and fatalities increased in Iowa due to the high vehicle volume. Traffic fatalities went from 343 in 2020 to 356 in 2021, then dropped to 337 in 2022.
Total Vehicle Sales
129,834
Iowa's 2023 car sales of 129,834 only rank 32nd nationwide. The state's top sellers are trucks and SUVs, such as the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, and Chevrolet Equinox.
Average Insurance Cost
$1,767
Compared to the rest of the country, Iowa drivers enjoy modest car insurance rates, with minimum coverage at $324 and full coverage averaging $1,767 per year.