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Iowa DOT Regulations

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         Iowa has a graduated driver's license (GDL) system for drivers under the age of 18. GDL includes steps that allow for the increased driving privilege as the driver accumulates more skill and demonstrates responsible driving practices. The three steps are the instruction permit, intermediate license, and full license. Driver education is part of the GDL system.

Step 1: An instruction permit is the first step on the road to a driver’s license. Driving is an adult responsibility that you need to take seriously to keep you and others safe and protect your privilege to drive.

  • Available at age 14.

  • Must be held for a minimum of 12 months, accident-free to obtain a license.

  • Requires written approval of parent/guardian.

  • Requires vision screening and knowledge test.

  • All driving must be supervised. May drive only with parent/guardian, family member over 21, driver education teacher, or driver over 25 with the written permission of parent/guardian.

  • Number of passengers limited to the number of seat belts in the vehicle.

  • Must complete approved driver education course.

  • Must log 20 hours of supervised driving; a minimum of two hours must be between sunset and sunrise.

  • Must drive accident- and violation-free for six consecutive months immediately prior to apply for an intermediate license.

Step 2: Driver Education

  • Available at age 14.

  • Must have instruction permit.

  • 30 hours of classroom education that includes four hours of substance abuse education, a minimum of 20 minutes on railroad crossing safety, information on organ donation, and information on bicycle and motorcycle awareness.

  • Six hours behind the wheel and six hours observation with partner.

Step 3: Optional School Permit

  • Be at least 14 1/2 years old.

  • Complete an Iowa-approved driver education course.

  • Hold an instruction permit and a clean driving record for at least six consecutive months immediately before applying for your minor school license.

  • Live 1 mile or more from the school you are enrolled in, unless a special need exists. If you have more than one residence, where you live is the location you reside the majority of the time.

  • You must have your school superintendent; principal AND your parent or guardian sign an Affidavit for School License (form 30021) available at any driver’s license issuance site or the high school office/district office.

  • You may also be required to complete a drive test at the driver’s license issuance site.

   

Step 4: An intermediate license is an important step on the road to a full license. This license gives you more driving freedom and also more responsibility. Know how to keep you and others safe, and protect your privilege to drive.

• Be at least 16 years old.

• Complete an Iowa-approved driver education course.

• Have had an instruction permit for a total of one year and a clean driving record for at least six       consecutive months immediately before applying for your intermediate license.

• Your parent or guardian must provide written consent.

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