Iowa OWI Costs (2026)
State-specific OWI cost calculators, law summaries, and guides for Iowa.
Calculate your Iowa OWI costOn our estimates, a typical first-offense OWI in Iowa costs about $15,619, the 33rd highest of the 50 states (median of our state estimates: $17,615). Use the calculators below for your own situation.
Iowa OWI Key Facts
Iowa OWI Calculators
Iowa OWI FAQ
How much does an OWI cost in Iowa?
Add up the fine ($1,250-$1,250), attorney fees (our estimate: $1,500-$5,000), insurance, ignition interlock, education, reinstatement and time off work, and our calculator puts a typical first-offense OWI in Iowa at about $15,619, within a range of $9,222 to $23,875, using its default answers. Use the calculator for an estimate based on your own situation.
What is the legal OWI term in Iowa?
Iowa uses the term "OWI" for impaired driving offenses. The legal BAC limit is 0.08% for adults, with enhanced penalties at 0.15% BAC.
How long is your license suspended for a first OWI in Iowa?
A first-offense OWI in Iowa carries a license suspension of 180 days, and a second offense carries a license suspension of 1 year (365 days). Whether you can keep driving on a restricted license during that time is covered below.
Is an ignition interlock device required in Iowa?
Not for a first offense. In Iowa a first-offense interlock is optional: it is needed only for a temporary restricted license, unless the court orders one. We estimate the monthly cost at about $85.
Does Iowa require SR-22 insurance after an OWI?
Yes. Iowa requires SR-22 high-risk insurance filing for 2 years following an OWI conviction. We estimate the typical premium increase at 50-100%.
When does an OWI become a felony in Iowa?
In Iowa, an OWI becomes a felony on the third offense within 12 years. Other factors, such as an injury, can also change how a case is charged; an attorney can tell you how they apply in Iowa.
Can an OWI be expunged in Iowa?
Iowa does not allow OWI convictions to be expunged. Some states have other ways to limit who can see a record, such as sealing, which this site does not cover yet; an attorney in Iowa can tell you whether any apply.
How long do you have to request a license hearing after an OWI arrest in Iowa?
In Iowa, you have 10 days from when you receive the suspension notice to request a hearing on your license (Iowa Code § 321J.13(2)). The notice you received at arrest gives the exact date.
How long does Iowa have to charge you with an OWI?
In Iowa, the state generally must file OWI charges within 3 years of the alleged offense. This deadline reflects a first-offense misdemeanor OWI; felony cases can carry a different filing window. If you are charged, an attorney can confirm how the deadline applies to your case.
Can you get a hardship or restricted license after an OWI in Iowa?
Iowa generally offers a hardship or restricted license that can let you keep driving for work, school, or treatment during part of an OWI suspension. Eligibility and conditions depend on your offense level and the court, so confirm the current rules for your situation.
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