Getting your Iowa learner permit

By the end of this topic you can

• You can check whether you are old enough to apply.
• You can gather the identity, residency and Social Security documents you need.
• You can explain how a parent gives written consent.
• You can choose where to take the knowledge test.
• You can name who is allowed to supervise you while you practice.

What you need to know and understand

• You must be at least 14 to get an Iowa instruction permit.
• You must pass the knowledge test and a vision screening.
• A parent or guardian gives written consent in person or on form 430018.
• You bring proof of identity, proof of Iowa residency and proof of your Social Security number.
• The instruction permit fee is $6 and the permit is valid for four years.
• Permits are issued at Iowa DOT driver's license locations and county treasurer offices, usually by appointment.
• Iowa's hands-free law covers permit drivers, and Iowa DOT advises permit holders not to use a phone or other electronic device at all while driving.

Your permit day checklist

If you have a medical or vision condition that could affect your driving, Iowa DOT may ask for more information before issuing the permit.

1. Make sure you are 14 or older.
2. Pass the knowledge test at a DMV, a county treasurer's office, at home with a parent proctor, or at a participating school.
3. Use Iowa DOT's online document tool to build your personal list, then gather one proof of identity and date of birth, proof of your Social Security number and proof of your Iowa address.
4. Have a parent or guardian come with you, or bring the completed Parent's/Guardian's Written Consent Form (form 430018).
5. Book an appointment at a DMV location or contact your county treasurer, pass the vision screening there and pay the fee.

Who can sit beside you

A permit only lets you drive with a supervising adult who holds a valid license for the vehicle and sits in the front passenger seat. Iowa allows:

• Your parent, guardian or custodian.
• An immediate family member who is at least 21.
• A driver education instructor.
• Any person aged 25 or older who has written permission from your parent, guardian or custodian.

What the permit does not allow

Our deeper guides to the Iowa permit test and our free practice test can help you prepare for the knowledge test.

• Driving alone, including to school or work (that needs the separate school license).
• Carrying more passengers than there are seat belts.
• Driving a commercial vehicle, any vehicle of 16,001 pounds or more, or a motorcycle without a motorcycle license.
• Holding or manually using a phone, tablet or other electronic device while driving (Iowa DOT advises permit holders to avoid device use altogether).

Common mistakes

• Guessing which documents to bring. Use Iowa DOT's online document list first, and bring a certified birth certificate rather than a souvenir copy.
• Turning up without a parent and without form 430018. You will be sent away without a permit.
• Letting an 18-year-old friend supervise. A non-family supervisor must be at least 25 and have your parent's written permission.
• Forgetting glasses or contacts for the vision screening if you normally wear them.

Test yourself: Getting your Iowa learner permit

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Iowa Permit Test
• Iowa Permit Practice Test
• Learning to Drive in Iowa