Iowa · OWI · Checked October 2026
Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in Iowa
Refusing a Breath or Blood Test in Iowa: What Are the Rules?
What happens if you refuse a breath or blood test in Iowa.
- Refusal penalty
- License revoked for 1 year, or 2 years with a previous revocation; refusal also bars a deferred judgment
- License suspension for refusing
- 1 year (no prior revocation); 2 years (prior revocation)
- Deadline to challenge
- 10 days
Refusal Penalties in Iowa
license revoked for 1 year, or 2 years with a previous revocation; refusal also bars a deferred judgmentIowa Code § 321J.9(1); § 321J.2(3)(b)(2)(d)
License Suspension for Refusing in Iowa
1 year (no prior revocation); 2 years (prior revocation)Iowa Code § 321J.13(1)-(2); § 321J.12(1); § 321J.9(1)
More on OWI Law in Iowa
See the full overview of OWI laws in Iowa and read about implied consent laws in every state.
This page summarizes Iowa law from official sources, checked October 2026. It isn't legal advice; a lawyer licensed in Iowa can advise on your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if You Refuse a Breath Test in Iowa?
license revoked for 1 year, or 2 years with a previous revocation; refusal also bars a deferred judgment
How Long Is the Suspension for Refusing?
1 year (no prior revocation); 2 years (prior revocation)