Iowa actively regulates self-driving cars through established statutes and administrative rules but has minimal specific oversight for drones beyond general aviation and local ordinances. Its framework prioritizes safe integration of automated vehicles (AVs) on public roads while allowing testing and deployment under defined conditions, reflecting a proactive stance since 2019 legislation.
Self-Driving Car Regulations
Iowa Code §§ 321.514–321.519 authorizes driverless-capable vehicles (SAE Levels 3–5) on public highways if they meet federal safety standards and achieve a “minimal risk condition” during malfunctions. The Iowa DOT enforces registration notations for automation levels, operational restrictions (e.g., max 20 MPH on roads under 40 MPH posted), and exemptions for non-compliant testing via forms detailing safety mitigations.
AVs must carry insurance, report crashes per § 321.266, and comply with laws like “move over” for emergency vehicles; remote operators register if applicable. Rules repromulgated in 2025 ensure transparency for manufacturers and law enforcement.
No bans exist; testing combines simulation, tracks, and roads per NHTSA guidance.​
Drone Regulations
Iowa lacks comprehensive statewide drone-specific laws for commercial or recreational use, deferring primarily to federal FAA rules (e.g., Part 107 for small UAS under 55 lbs). State code covers general aircraft under Title V but omits AV/drones distinctions.​
Local rules apply: e.g., cities restrict flights near airports, prisons, or crowds; no-fly zones enforce privacy. 2026 updates focus on hands-free driving bans, not drones.​
Agricultural exemptions aid drone crop monitoring, but cybersecurity follows NHTSA best practices without mandates.​
Comparison Table
Iowa leads AV regulation among Midwest states but trails drone innovation due to federal dominance.
