Iowa’s OWI (Operating While Intoxicated, or drunk) law

Iowa’s OWI law states that it is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle in Iowa:

• While under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or other drug or a combination of such substances.

• While having an alcohol concentration of .08 or more.

• While having any amount of a controlled substance in one’s body.

Iowa’s implied consent law means that any person who operates a motor vehicle in the state agrees to have a blood, breath and/or urine test performed to determine alcohol level or presence of drugs, whenever a peace officer has reasonable grounds to believe the person is operating under the influence.

Seat Belt Law

Drivers and passengers must use safety belts or an approved restraint system.

Car Seats for Children

In Iowa, parents are required to make sure their children are properly restrained in a car seat when riding in a motor vehicle. The law states:

• A child under 1 year old who weighs less than 20 lbs. must be secured in a rear-facing child restraint system.

• A child under 6 years old must be secured in a safety seat or booster seat. A seat belt alone is not appropriate.

• Children ages 6-11 must be secured in a child restraint system or by a safety belt.

Disclaimer: Information on this page is not legal advice for any individual case or situation. The information is general and should not be relied upon for any specific situation. For specific situations, please consult an attorney