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Iowa Background Check Laws: What Employers Need to Know
Iowa largely follows federal FCRA standards statewide, with one notable exception in its capital city, relevant across the state's agriculture, insurance, and manufacturing industries, whether you're hiring in Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, or Davenport.
Des Moines Ban-the-Box
The City of Des Moines has its own Ban-the-Box ordinance, restricting inquiries into a candidate's criminal record until after an offer of employment has been extended. This is a local requirement and doesn't apply statewide.
Certified Record Requests
If an employer requests a certified copy of criminal history data in writing from the state, the employer is responsible for the associated fee.
Use of Older Arrest Records
A signed release is required to disclose criminal history data that shows no disposition 18 months or more after the arrest date, or after successful completion of probation following a deferred judgment.
Pass-Through Fees for Iowa Records
| Record Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Criminal county search | No pass-through fee listed for county-level searches in this state |
| Criminal statewide (Iowa Dept. of Public Safety Division of Criminal Investigation) | $15.00 per last name request, searched by name and date of birth |
| Motor vehicle record | $10.30 |
Fees are sourced from 3rd Degree Screening's published fee schedule and are subject to change without notice by the issuing agency.
Common Questions from Iowa Employers
Does Iowa have a statewide Ban-the-Box law?
No. Iowa's Ban-the-Box rule is local to Des Moines rather than statewide; employers outside city limits aren't subject to it.
Who pays for a certified Iowa criminal history request?
The employer, if the certified copy is requested in writing directly from the state.
Can I get an old arrest record with no disposition in Iowa?
Only with a signed release, once the record has gone 18 months or more without a disposition, or after a deferred judgment's probation period is complete.
This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and requirements may change and may vary based on specific facts and circumstances. Users should consult their own qualified legal counsel regarding their specific compliance obligations.
