USA Iowa Driver License

Iowa Driver’s License: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Looking to apply for, transfer, or renew your Iowa Driver’s License? This complete 2025 guide will walk you through the process with the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT).

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How to Get a Driver’s License in Iowa

Step 1: Choose Your License Type
The most common type is a Class C driver’s license for standard vehicles. Iowa also offers:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
• Motorcycle license or endorsement
• Instruction Permit (for new or teen drivers)

Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply for an Iowa REAL ID or standard license, bring the following:

• One proof of identity (e.g., U.S. birth certificate or passport)
• Proof of Social Security number (e.g., SS card or W-2)
• Two documents proving Iowa residency (e.g., utility bill, lease)
• Lawful status documentation (if applicable)

Step 3: Pass the Required Tests
If this is your first license:

• Vision test
• Written knowledge test
• Driving (skills) test — By appointment, after passing written test and meeting other requirements

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Iowa Teen Drivers: Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) Program

For drivers under age 18, Iowa uses a three-step graduated licensing system:

1. Instruction Permit (14+) — Supervised driving only; must hold for 12 months
2. Intermediate License (16–17) — Unsupervised driving with restrictions; valid until 18
3. Full License — Issued at 18 (or at 17 with clean record for 12 months and driver’s ed completion)

Driver’s education is required before advancing to an intermediate license.

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Transferring an Out-of-State License to Iowa

New residents must transfer their out-of-state license within 30 days of establishing residency.

To transfer:

• Present your valid out-of-state license
• Provide proof of identity, SSN, and Iowa residency
• Pass a vision test
• Written and driving tests are usually waived for valid, unexpired licenses

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Renewing an Iowa Driver’s License

You can renew:

• Online at iowadot.gov
• In person at any Iowa DOT licensing service center
• By mail in limited cases (e.g., military, out-of-state students)

Most Iowa licenses are valid for 8 years, but older drivers may receive shorter terms.

A vision screening may be required during in-person renewals.

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Iowa REAL ID – Gold Star License

Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID (or passport) to fly domestically or enter federal facilities.

To obtain a REAL ID-compliant license (with a gold star), you must apply in person and provide:

• Proof of identity and legal status
• Proof of Social Security number
• Two documents proving Iowa residency

REAL ID is optional but recommended for frequent travelers.

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Iowa Driver’s License Fees (2025)

License Type	Fee (Approx.)
Class C License (8 years)	$32.00
Instruction Permit	$6.00
Intermediate License	$8.00
Motorcycle Endorsement	$2.00/year
Replacement / Duplicate License	$10.00
CDL License	Varies

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Required Documents Checklist

• U.S. passport or certified birth certificate
• Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub
• Two Iowa residency documents (e.g., utility bill, lease)
• Completed driver’s license application
• Proof of legal presence (if applicable)

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Services Available at Iowa DOT

• New driver’s licenses and learner permits
• REAL ID (gold star) applications
• License renewals and replacements
• Out-of-state transfers
• CDL and motorcycle licensing
• Vision, written, and skills tests
• Address and name changes

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For appointments, online services, and official updates, visit the Iowa DOT website.