Since the affidavit of repairs web page will lock after 3-5 minutes of no activity, it is critical before starting the exam to have all relevant information readily available, such as vehicle title, bill of sale, part receipts, and credit card for payment. If the affidavit page locks prior to completion, you will need to open the program again and start over.

The speed is dependent upon the user's operating system and browser. For maximum speed, we recommend using Google Chrome and making sure no other computer programs are running.

This is required for the system to find the correct dealer/recycler or individual connected to the title record. For businesses, if the FEIN you are entering is causing an error it may be due to the DOT having an incorrect FEIN on file. To correct the FEIN, contact the Iowa DOT’s Office of Vehicle & Motor Carrier Services via email at vscusto@iowadot.us.

This is required by Iowa law 321.105A(2c)(17). A salvage title vehicle is not eligible to be driven on the highway, therefore, no fee for new registration is due. When the salvage title vehicle is repaired and passes inspection, it becomes eligible for highway operation when registered properly. Therefore, the fee for new registration is based off of the vehicle value when the vehicle becomes eligible for highway operation.

To determine the fair market value for a salvage vehicle that has been repaired, use the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) consumer site. Locate the correct year, make, and model for the vehicle and include all applicable options and mileage. The proper fair market value is LOW RETAIL or ROUGH TRADE. The fair market value calculation may be reduced for parts, frames, chassis, auto bodies, and supplies used to rebuild the vehicle for which sales tax was already paid. No deduction for labor is allowed per Iowa law. If you would like to dispute the fair market vehicle value and subsequent amount of fee for new registration you paid, you may file a claim for refund with the Iowa Department of Revenue, citing the reasons for your disputed claim of vehicle value using this form.

The purpose of the inspection is to properly identify the vehicle and replaced parts in an effort to deter and detect vehicle and vehicle part theft. To properly identify the replaced parts, the vehicle needs to be completely repaired prior to inspection. Iowa Administrative Code 761-405.15 states; A salvage title vehicle shall not be examined until it has been completely repaired except for minor body parts such as trim, body markings, and paint.

No, Iowa law allows a vehicle to be sold without the airbags replaced as long as the seller discloses this information to the buyer Iowa Code section 321.69.

If you don’t have a credit card you will need to purchase a prepaid credit card at a local retailer.

There are resources available that provide internet service such as a local library or a community center.

Tell the officer at time of the exam of the additional parts/repairs that were completed; the officer will record this in the approval area.

The permit to drive is included online when you complete the affidavit of repairs and make payment for the exam. If you need another permit, you will find one at the bottom of this form.