Iowa CDL License Requirements
Before you become a licensed driver in Iowa, there are a few things that you should consider. According to Iowa CDL requirements, you must be at least 18 years old, pass a current physical examination, and have a valid driver’s license. The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulates interstate transportation of cargo, so if you want to travel across state lines to deliver cargo, you must be at least 21 years old. All CDL applicants then need to pass a general knowledge exam and a skills test, which includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection, a basic vehicle knowledge test, and a hands-on test in which you’ll drive on the road. The vehicle that you take the test in must also fall under the correct CDL license class. There are also additional endorsements that need to be covered by taking additional exams or going through additional training.
Find CDL Schools in Iowa
The best way to get a proper CDL education is through CDL training school in Iowa. Luckily, our site provides great resources that will help you find the perfect school to advance your future trucking career. You’ll gain a stellar education by training inside and outside of the classroom. You’ll gain experience behind the wheel in a controlled setting as well as learn the proper way to inspect your vehicle prior to hitting the road. It’s time to embark on a new career – but first, make sure you’re getting a proper education.
CDL Training Costs in Iowa
Currently, the average tuition cost of an Iowa CDL training school is around $3,700. This tuition cost will cover both the in-class portions of training as well as training on the road. Applying for financial aid through FAFSA is a great first step if you want to explore your federal student aid options, in which the government subsidizes some of the loan cost. If you qualify through FAFSA, a federal Pell Grant awarded through participating institutions is money that can be used for school and differs from a loan in that it doesn't need to be paid back. These are just a few ways that you can pay the cost up front. However, we realize that not everybody can afford to pay the education up front. In some cases, a trucking company will pay for you to go to school with the expectation that you will pass your exam and work for the company. Whichever financial plan you decide to choose, make sure that you give your full and undivided attention while getting your education.
CDL Prep in Iowa
Iowa CDL prep doesn’t stop just because you finish school. There are a few things you should still consider before you take your Iowa CDL test. Your countless hours in the classroom and on the road have led up to this final test. So what else is there to do? Luckily, our practice test can give you an idea of what to expect when you take your actual exam. You’ll also want to make sure that you practice in the same vehicle to take the test in. Drive a vehicle you’re familiar with to ensure that you’re in a comfortable setting when taking your test. When in doubt, make sure to crack open your books and have a study session. Be sure to practice driving in your vehicle as much as possible.
Iowa CDL Endorsement & Waivers
With an Iowa CDL, your employer might require an extra endorsement. These endorsements cover niche areas that might not be covered by the traditional CDL license in Iowa. The following types of endorsements are common throughout Iowa and other states.
- School Bus
- Passenger
- Tank Vehicles
- Double/Triple
- Hazardous Materials
Waivers may also be prevalent in case a student did not pass a portion of the test or has a special circumstance. These will be marked with corresponding letters on the Iowa Commercial Driver’s License.
CDL Tests in Iowa
It’s time to tackle the Iowa CDL exam. One little test and you’ll be heading down the open road towards a new and exciting career. You’ve spent hours studying and even more time behind the wheel, and now it’s time to show off what you’ve learned. Below we’ve given you a preview of what you can expect during your Iowa Commercial Driver’s License test. Both the knowledge portion and the skills tests are described below.
CDL Knowledge Tests in Iowa
The knowledge portion of the Iowa CDL test consists of 50 questions that cover subjects like safety, pre-trip inspection, driving techniques, and road signs. To pass this portion, you must get at least an 80% on the exam. If you want to get a feel of how the exam will be formatted and what kind of questions to expect, our test offers 50 questions that will help you prepare for your upcoming Iowa CDL exam.
CDL Skills Test in Iowa
The Iowa CDL skills test is designed to ensure that you have the proper knowledge and ability to operate a commercial vehicle in the state of Iowa. The test will be broken down into three portions. The pre-inspection portion will ensure that you’re able to properly assess your vehicle before taking it on the road. The next portion will cover the operating techniques and identification of all aspects of the vehicle. Finally, you will need to perform various maneuvers like turning, backing up, and merging lanes that will be a common occurrence on the road.
Job Outlook in Iowa
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of trucking jobs in the United States is expected to rise 5% by 2024. While this may not seem like a major increase, it’s a great sign of an industry that’s growing. This is great news for those looking for a new career as a licensed CDL driver in Iowa.
Iowa Truck Driver Salary
The average driver in Iowa makes about $41,620 per year. This is just below the national average of $43,590. The investment you put into your CDL license education will surely be worth it when you land a trucking job that offers a stellar wage.