Applying for a New License

Whether you're a teen or adult who is applying for your first driver's license or a new resident who needs to trade in your out-of-state driver's license, the process will go more smoothly if you know what to expect.

First-time Adult Drivers

If you're a first-time driver 18 or older, getting your license will be an exciting experience. You will need to provide proof of both your identity and your Social Security number at your nearest driver's license station. You will need to pass both the written and driving exams in addition to a basic vision screening.

The driver's license written exam covers safe driving tips, traffic signs, rules of the road, and proper vehicle registration procedures. To prepare for the written exam, you can download the driver's handbook; study guides are available in several languages.

During the driving test, an Iowa Department of Transportation official will score your ability to safely operate your vehicle. You will practice basic tasks such as parking, turning, changing lanes, and signaling. You will not be asked to break any traffic laws during the exam. Since your vehicle's safety equipment, registration, and proof of insurance will also be inspected, you'll want to double-check these items before your test appointment.

Your Iowa driver's license costs $20 (plus a $3 surcharge through June 30, 2008) and expires on your birthday five years from the date of issue. It is valid for another 60 days, and you can renew at any time within that period without having to retake the knowledge test.

Policies for Teen Drivers

In 1999, Iowa adopted a graduated licensing system for teenage drivers. At 14, teens become eligible for an instruction permit if they have parental permission and can pass the necessary tests.

At 16, teens can receive an intermediate license that allows them to drive during designated hours without parental supervision. If the teen remains accident- and conviction-free for the 12 consecutive months preceding application, they can receive a full license at age 17.

If a driver under 18 has an accident or is convicted of a moving violation while holding either an instruction permit or an intermediate license, they will be referred to a remedial driver improvement course. The driver and their parent or guardian must also attend an interview with an Iowa DOT representative to determine if additional driving restrictions will be necessary.

Teen drivers should bring proof of identity and verification of their Social Security number when applying for an Iowa driver's license. Several different forms of documentation are considered acceptable, but you must bring the original document. Photocopies or faxes are not allowed.

Driver's licenses for those under 18 are valid for two years and cost $8 (plus a $3 surcharge through June 30, 2008). To guard against underage purchases of tobacco or alcohol, teens will receive a license that is prominently marked with the phrase "under 18" or "under 21."

Licensing Procedures for New Iowa Residents

If you're new to Iowa, it's only natural to be confused about driver's license requirements. Since it's common for state laws to vary, new Iowa residents often have questions about when they need to apply for an Iowa driver's license.

The State of Iowa considers you eligible to obtain a driver's license if you have lived in Iowa for more than 30 days, registered to vote, accepted a permanent job, or have children who attend an Iowa public school. A college student is not considered a resident if they have a permanent residence and a valid driver's license in other state.

If you are stationed in Iowa while serving in the military, you are not considered a resident if your vehicle is properly registered in your home state.

When you apply for your first Iowa driver's license, you'll need to bring proof of your residency. This could include a recent utility bill, rental agreement, paycheck, or bank statement that shows you have lived at your Iowa address for more than 30 days. An Iowa voter registration card, vehicle registration certificate, or your child's school enrollment papers will also be considered acceptable proof of residency.

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, obtaining your Iowa driver's license should be a fairly simple process. You will need to report to your nearest driver's license station with identification and proof of residency.

You will also need to verify your Social Security number and turn in your out-of-state license. In most cases, you will not need to take the driving and knowledge tests.

Special Vehicle Licenses

Generally, drivers who apply for an Iowa license will receive a Class C noncommercial license that allows for the operation of most standard cars and trucks. Drivers who wish to operate other types of motorized vehicles need to apply for the appropriate special license. For example, you will need to obtain a motorcycle license if you wish to legally operate a motorcycle. Drivers of commercial vehicles will need to apply for a commercial driver's license.

Driving Privileges for Non-Citizens

If you have a valid license from another country, and are either visiting Iowa or attending school here, you may drive in the state. Be sure to always have your license with you when driving.

While it's not required, it's a good idea to have an International Driver Permit, issued from your home country. These permits basically translate your license to make it understandable to U.S. officials.

Temporary foreign nationals interested in obtaining an Iowa license should bring their Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) documents to a driver license issuance location. The state provides more information on this process.

Licenses are valid as long as your visa is valid or two years, whichever period is shortest. Permanent resident foreign nationals are granted the standard, five-year license.

Where to Apply for an Iowa Driver's License

There are driver's license stations located in every Iowa county. Stations are managed either by the County Treasurer or the Iowa Department of Transportation. Most driver's license stations are open during regular business hours, but you will generally need to call for an appointment to take the driving test.