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IA / OFFICIAL RESOURCE GUIDE

The Iowa
driver handbook.

Use the handbook as your source of truth. This page helps you find it, understand what to look for, and turn reading into focused practice.

Open the official handbook
START HERE

Your reading path.

  1. 01
    Road signs & signals

    Recognize the message before you reach the sign.

  2. 02
    Right of way

    Work through intersections, turns, and shared spaces.

  3. 03
    Safe driving

    Build space, awareness, and good decisions.

  4. 04
    Parking & stopping

    Know where and how to leave your vehicle safely.

  5. 05
    Rules of the road

    Understand lane choices, passing, and road markings.

STATE CHECKLIST

Before your appointment.

Iowa’s instruction permit begins at age 14 after knowledge and vision testing and written parental or guardian consent.

Permit practice requires adult supervision; qualifying supervisors include a parent, guardian, immediate family member age 21 or older, instructor, or an approved adult age 25 or older.

Iowa prohibits permit holders from using a phone, smartphone, tablet, or electronic communication or entertainment device while driving, with a narrow exception for permanently installed equipment.

Permit eligibility, documents, fees, and appointment details can change. Confirm those details with Iowa Department of Transportation before you go.