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States

IAIowa CDL permit test guide

The core course follows the national manual text most states use. When your state manual gives a different number, it wins.

Licensing agency
Iowa Department of Transportation
Official CDL page
iowadot.gov ↗
Official CDL manual
iowadot.gov ↗
Testing, fees and appointments
iowadot.gov ↗
Knowledge-test language
Confirm with the agency

We have not confirmed this state's current language policy from an official source. Ask the agency before you book.

Source collection date

Steps to your CDL (federal minimums)

  1. Choose your class (A, B or C) and endorsements.
  2. Get a DOT medical exam from a provider on the National Registry and a medical examiner's certificate.
  3. Pass the knowledge tests at the state agency to get your commercial learner's permit (CLP).
  4. Hold the CLP at least 14 days and practice with a qualified CDL holder. A CLP is valid for up to one year (some states less).
  5. Complete entry-level driver training (ELDT) with a registered provider.
  6. Pass the skills test: pre-trip inspection, basic control and road test, in English.
  7. Get your CDL. You must be 21 to drive across state lines.

What is different in this state

Knowledge tests

Iowa publishes question counts: general knowledge 50 (miss up to 10), air brakes 25 (5), hazmat 30 (6), and combination, passenger, school bus, doubles/triples and tank 20 each (4). An Iowa operator test of 25 questions (5) may also apply.

Source: iowadot.gov

Also important

Knowledge and skills tests are given at DOT and county treasurer offices and by Iowa DOT-authorized third-party testers; you must hold the CLP 14 days and finish ELDT first.

Source: iowadot.gov

State manual

The Iowa manual notes that Iowa allows no Class A passenger vehicles, and part of the brake check is described verbally only during the Iowa test.

Source: iowadot.gov

State-only topics in the manual

  • Iowa notes inside Section 1 restrictions and Section 11 vehicle inspection, plus a link to the Iowa DOT CDL test app.

Source collection date:

The three permit tests

General Knowledge

Required for every CDL class.

Mock exam

Air Brakes

Needed to drive a vehicle with air brakes without an "L" restriction.

Mock exam

Combination Vehicles

Needed for Class A (tractor-trailers).

Mock exam
Study the core course

7CDL is an independent study aid. It is not a government website, not affiliated with any state agency, FMCSA or AAMVA, and not an ELDT provider. Always check your state's official CDL manual and agency.