Iowa Department of Public Safety | Iowa Department of Public Safety Iowa Department of Public Safety Our mission is to serve the people of Iowa by providing public safety services with leadership, integrity, and professionalism. About DPS Commissioner's Office I Need To... Request Criminal Background Checks Request Iowa criminal history record information by mail, fax, in person, online, or email. Access Crash Reports Access accident related information and reports produced by the Iowa State Patrol for the entire state. Report School Safety Concerns Anonymously report school safety concerns and get students in crisis the help they need before it's too late. Acquire a Weapon Permit Iowans must obtain a Permit to Carry Weapons by applying through the Sheriff's Office in their county of residence. Find a Missing Person The Missing Persons Clearinghouse helps locate missing persons through public awareness and cooperation. Learn About Traffic Safety Initiatives Learn about current traffic safety initiatives on the Drive Smart Iowa website. DPS Policies View Department of Public Safety policies. DPS Policies Hands-Free - It's the Law Effective July 1, Iowa became the 31st state to enact hands-free driving legislation with an initial warning period through December 31. Learn more about how to comply with the new law Image Iowa 511 Traveling in Iowa? Get real-time updates on road conditions, construction, commercial vehicle restrictions, road closures, and more. View Road Conditions Near You Image Press Releases View the latest press releases from the Iowa Dept. of Public Safety. Press Releases April 16, 2026 Iowans Encouraged to Participate in DEA’s 30th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day DES MOINES, Iowa – The Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP) is encouraging Iowans to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, April 25, 2026. April 14, 2026 Statewide Hands-Free Traffic Enforcement Results DES MOINES, Iowa — For Distracted Driving Awareness Month, GTSB partnered with law enforcement agencies statewide to enforce Iowa's Hands-Free Driving Law. April 10, 2026 Iowans Asked to Comment on Iowa’s Application to the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program DES MOINES, Iowa - The Iowa Department of Public Safety, Office of Drug Control Policy (ODCP) seeks public comment. April 5, 2026 Amber Alert: Waterloo, IA Cancelled Waterloo, IA - The Amber Alert for a 12-yer-old girl has been cancelled. Missing person has been located. Image Join Our Team! Curious about joining the Iowa Department of Public Safety? Explore available positions here! Iowa DPS Careers