Skip to content
PracticeTestHQ
Find your state

Iowa permit test: move over, lane changes and passing

Iowa's Move Over or Slow Down law, changing lanes, and when passing is illegal. 15 questions, 10 at a time, starting with ones you haven't seen.

Study this topic as flashcards

Rules to remember10 key move over, lane changes and passing rulesShow the rules
  1. On a road with two or more lanes in the same direction, the left lane is generally used for passing. (p. 16)
  2. Iowa's Move Over or Slow Down Law requires you to change lanes when approaching a stopped emergency, tow or maintenance vehicle with flashing lights. (p. 22)
  3. If you cannot change lanes safely, slow down and be prepared to stop. (p. 22)
  4. Violating the Move Over or Slow Down Law may lead to a license suspension of up to one year. (p. 22)
  5. The Move Over or Slow Down Law also covers any stopped motor vehicle, including a passenger car, that shows its hazard lights. (p. 22)
  6. Iowa's Steer It-Clear It law requires you to move an operable vehicle out of the traffic lanes after a crash with no injuries. (p. 22)
  7. Change lanes one lane at a time, checking for space and signaling each time. (p. 44)
  8. As a rule, only pass one vehicle at a time. (p. 45)
  9. Do not pass within 100 feet of an intersection or a railroad crossing. (p. 46)
  10. Passing is illegal when approaching the top of a hill, because you cannot see oncoming traffic. (p. 46)

Taken from the explanations to checked practice questions; page numbers link to the official handbook.

Loading questions…

Sample move over, lane changes and passing questions

  1. 1.A sign warns of a narrow bridge ahead. A slow truck is in front of you about 80 feet before the bridge. May you pass?

    • AYes, if you pass very quickly
    • BYes, if no one is coming
    • COnly if the truck signals you to
    • DNo, not within 100 feet of the bridge
    Show the answer

    ✓ D. No, not within 100 feet of the bridge

    Passing is illegal within 100 feet of a narrow bridge, viaduct or tunnel that has a posted sign.

    Source: Iowa Driver's License Manual (Complete Book) (back cover 'M M1170 07/23/2026'), page 46

  2. 2.On a four-lane highway you approach a stopped tow truck with its flashing lights on. What does Iowa law require if you can safely change lanes?

    • AMove over to the next lane
    • BStop behind the tow truck
    • CKeep your lane and speed
    • DHonk as you pass by
    Show the answer

    ✓ A. Move over to the next lane

    Iowa's Move Over or Slow Down Law requires you to change lanes when approaching a stopped emergency, tow or maintenance vehicle with flashing lights.

    Source: Iowa Driver's License Manual (Complete Book) (back cover 'M M1170 07/23/2026'), page 22

  3. 3.Iowa law bans passing within how many feet of an intersection?

    • A100 feet
    • B50 feet
    • C200 feet
    • D300 feet
    Show the answer

    ✓ A. 100 feet

    Do not pass within 100 feet of an intersection or a railroad crossing.

    Source: Iowa Driver's License Manual (Complete Book) (back cover 'M M1170 07/23/2026'), page 46

  4. 4.You have a minor crash on the interstate. No one is hurt and both cars can still be driven. What does Iowa law require?

    • AMove the cars out of the traffic lanes
    • BStay in the lane until police arrive
    • CLeave both cars exactly where they are
    • DTurn on hazards and stand by the cars
    Show the answer

    ✓ A. Move the cars out of the traffic lanes

    Iowa's Steer It-Clear It law requires you to move an operable vehicle out of the traffic lanes after a crash with no injuries.

    Source: Iowa Driver's License Manual (Complete Book) (back cover 'M M1170 07/23/2026'), page 22