Prepare for the Iowa DOT Permit Test (2026)

The Iowa permit test has 35 questions. To pass, you must answer at least 28 correctly (80%).

An instruction permit is the first step in Iowa’s Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program. It allows new drivers to practice driving under supervision. It is only necessary for those from the ages of 14 to 17.

Visit your local Iowa DOT service center with proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. You’ll need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test. If you’re under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your application.

You must drive with a licensed adult (21 or older) in the front seat. This means that you may not drive without supervision at any time, under any circumstance.

Your instruction permit is valid for four years.

Our Iowa permit practice tests are designed to make studying simple, effective, and even fun. We break down the important information into easy-to-understand lessons and test you with realistic, exam-like questions so there are no surprises on test day. Every answer comes with a clear explanation, so if you get a question wrong, you’ll actually learn from your mistakes. Plus, we make studying engaging and interactive with a gamified experience that keeps you motivated.

An Iowa Minor School License, also called a school permit, allows students who are at least 14 ½ years old to drive to and from school and school activities without a parent or guardian. This permit is meant for students who live more than one mile from school and need transportation.

To get a school permit, you must be at least 14 ½ years old and have held an instruction permit for at least six months. You also need to complete an approved driver education course, have a clean driving record, and get permission from your parent/guardian and school.

You cannot drive for non-school purposes, such as going to a friend’s house or a job. You cannot drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless it’s for a school event. The only passengers you can have are siblings who live with you.

An intermediate license is the second step of the GDL program. It allows you to drive without supervision but comes with some restrictions. You can apply for it at age 16 after holding an instruction permit for at least 12 months.

You must have held an instruction permit for at least 12 months, completed an approved driver’s education course, completed at least 20 hours of supervised driving (including two nighttime hours), and passed the driving test.

A full, or unrestricted, driver’s license allows you to drive without restrictions. You can apply for it at age 17 after holding an intermediate license for at least 12 months with no violations.