Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions for those moving to Dubuque

• What is the climate like?
• Where do I register to vote?
• How much is the sales tax?
• Where can I find out about property taxes?
• Where can I get my driver's license?
• Where do I register my vehicle?
• Where do I get a marriage license/application?
• Where do I get hunting, fishing & boating licenses?
• Where do I get a license for my dog/cat?
• Where is the City of Dubuque's website?
• Where is Dubuque County's website?

What is the climate like?

Dubuque is located in the Midwest and experiences all four seasons. Click here for detailed climate information

Where do I register to vote?

You may register to vote in the office of the County Auditor in the Dubuque County Courthouse. Phone: 563.589.4457

How much is sales tax?

On July 1, 2008, the state rate for Iowa sales tax was set at 6%. The regular Local Option Sales Tax remains in effect where applicable. The total sales tax rate will not exceed 7%.

Where can I find out about property taxes?

For 2010-2011 the City's property tax levy is $10.02741 per $1,000 of January 1, 2009, taxable valuation. Additional levies include School District, Area School, and County for a total levy of $35.00555. For questions concerning your property taxes please contact Eric Stierman, Dubuque County Treasurer, 563.589.4436.

Where can I get my driver's license?

Upon becoming a resident of Iowa, a person 16 years old or older has 30 days to obtain an Iowa driver's license. Driver's licenses are obtained from the Dubuque Driver's License Station, 2460 Gateway Drive, Dubuque, Iowa 52003. Phone: 563.583.9844.

Where do I register my vehicle?

Residential Iowa license plates may be obtained throughout the year from the Dubuque County Treasurer's Office at the Dubuque County Courthouse, 720 Central Ave. Phone: 563.589.4450.

Where do I get a marriage license/application?

You may apply for a Marriage License at any County Recorder in Iowa as long as the ceremony is to be performed in Iowa. Marriage applications are accepted at the Dubuque County Recorder's Office, 720 Central Ave, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday. Phone: 563.589.4434.

Where do I get a hunting, fishing or boating license?

Licenses are available for purchase at most sporting goods stores and variety stores throughout Dubuque County. For a complete list of license centers, contact:

Dubuque County Conservation Board
Swiss Valley Nature Center, 13606 Swiss Valley Road, Peosta, IA. 52068.
Phone: 563.556.6745

Where do I get a license for my dog/cat?

In Dubuque all dogs and cats over the age of four months are required by law to be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. Newcomers with dogs and cats can apply for a license online at www.petdata.com or contact the City of Dubuque Health Department. Phone: 563.589.4181.

Where is the City of Dubuque's website?

The City of Dubuque's website is www.cityofdubuque.org.

Where is Dubuque County's website?

The County's website is http://www.dubuquecounty.org/

Have questions about the community? Need assistance with your relocation? Planning a relocation visit to Dubuque? Contact Shannon Gaherty, Newcomer Relations Coordinator, at 563.557.9049 or by email to .