Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements in Iowa

1. What are the CDL requirements for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Iowa?


In Iowa, all applicants for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) must:

• Possess a valid driver’s license from any state
• Have an acceptable driving record
• Pass a vision test and physical examination
• Provide proof of citizenship or legal presence in the US
• Provide proof of Iowa residency
• Successfully complete a written knowledge test for the type of vehicle they intend to operate
• Successfully complete a road test for the type of vehicle they intend to operate
• Provide a valid Social Security card or proof of ineligibility for a Social Security number
• Pay applicable fees.

2. How many years of driving experience do I need to obtain a CDL in Iowa?


In Iowa, you must have a minimum of two years of driving experience to obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

3. What type of medical certification is required to get a CDL in Iowa?


In Iowa, a driver must have a valid medical certificate on file with the Iowa Department of Transportation in order to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). The medical certificate must be issued by a certified medical examiner listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration National Registry.

4. Does Iowa use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for CDLs?


Yes, Iowa uses FMCSA guidelines for CDLs.

5. Are there any special endorsements required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in Iowa?


Yes, special endorsements may be required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in Iowa. These endorsements include: Hazardous Materials, Tanker, Double/Triple Trailers, Passenger Transport, and School Bus.

6. How often must CDL holders in Iowa pass a physical examination to maintain their license?


CDL holders in Iowa must pass a physical examination every two years to maintain their license.

7. What are the age requirements for obtaining a CDL in Iowa?


To obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in Iowa, you must be at least 18 years old. Drivers under the age of 21 are considered to be a “learner” and are not eligible to obtain a CDL. Plus, if you are over the age of 21 but under the age of 25, you will need to pass an additional written test to obtain your CDL.

8. Are there any skill exams required to get a CDL in Iowa?


Yes, Iowa requires applicants to pass written exams as well as skills tests in order to receive their CDL.

9. Does Iowa require drivers to complete any additional training before obtaining a CDL?


No, Iowa does not require drivers to complete any additional training before obtaining a CDL. However, the state does require all commercial drivers to complete a state-approved training program in order to obtain a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). Once the driver has passed the CLP, he or she can then take the state-administered commercial driver’s license (CDL) knowledge and skills tests.

10. Can I obtain a CDL if I have previous convictions for traffic violations in Iowa?


Yes, you can obtain a CDL if you have prior convictions for traffic violations in Iowa. However, the Iowa Department of Transportation may impose additional restrictions or limitations on your CDL based on the circumstances of the violation.

11. What hours are Commercial Drivers allowed to drive in Iowa?


According to the Iowa Department of Transportation, commercial drivers are allowed to drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off duty. Drivers are also required to take at least a 30-minute break every 8-hour period when driving.

12. Are there any restrictions on CDL holders operating certain types of vehicles in Iowa?


Yes. In Iowa, CDL holders are prohibited from operating any vehicle carrying hazardous materials, any type of school bus, or any vehicle that carries more than 16 passengers (including the driver).

13. Do I need to take any additional classes to obtain a CDL in Iowa?


Yes, you will need to take an additional class to obtain a CDL in Iowa. You must take a Class A or B commercial driver’s license (CDL) knowledge test, and also attend an approved driver training program.

14. Does Iowa require drivers to carry proof of insurance when operating commercial vehicles?


Yes, Iowa requires drivers to carry proof of insurance when operating commercial vehicles.

15. Is there an age limit for holding a Commercial Drivers License in Iowa?


Yes. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) in Iowa.

16. Are there any special requirements for drivers transporting hazardous materials with a Commercial Drivers License in Iowa?


Yes. Drivers in Iowa who are transporting hazardous materials with a Commercial Drivers License must have a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) on their license. To get the endorsement, drivers must pass a written test that covers both federal and Iowa regulations for the transport of hazardous materials. Drivers must also take an additional skills test before they are allowed to transport hazardous materials in Iowa.

17. Do I need to take a drug test before obtaining a CDL in Iowa?


Yes, drivers seeking a CDL in Iowa must pass a drug test prior to obtaining their license.

18. Does Iowa require drivers to carry special licenses or endorsements when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle?


Yes, Iowa requires drivers to have a special license or endorsement when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle. Drivers must have either a Class C Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) or a Special Driver Certificate (SDC) to operate any vehicle that transports passengers for hire.

19. How often must Commercial Drivers renew their license in Iowa?


Commercial drivers in Iowa must renew their licenses every five years.

20. Are there any special restrictions on Commercial Drivers operating at night or during certain times of day in Iowa?


Yes, the Iowa Department of Transportation has special restrictions on commercial drivers operating at night and during certain times of day. Special restrictions apply to drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles over a certain weight and/or size, including trucks, buses, and tractor trailers. Night driving is prohibited from 10 p.m. until 5 a.m., and drivers are also prohibited from driving for more than 14 consecutive hours. Drivers are also subject to additional restrictions on the number of hours they can drive in a single day, as well as the amount of rest they must receive in between shifts.