Iowa legal term
Motor vehicle in Iowa Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Iowa legislative session
In Iowa criminal law, “Motor vehicle” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Iowa criminal code.
What does “Motor vehicle” mean in Iowa criminal law?
“Motor vehicle” means any self-propelled vehicle subject to registration under chapter 321, and includes an item attached to the vehicle. 2. (Iowa Code § 716.13)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
- Burglary in the third degree
- Degrees of theft
- Eluding or attempting to elude pursuing law enforcement vehicle
- Attempted burglary in the third degree
- Drag racing prohibited
- Homicide or serious injury by vehicle
- Identification required
- Motor vehicle impoundment or immobilization
- Punishment for violation
- Revocation of license
- Temporary restricted license ignition interlock devices
- Driving while license suspended, denied, revoked, or barred
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.