Iowa permit test: your license and traffic stops
Who needs an Iowa license, carrying your license, insurance and registration, required screenings and tests, and what to do at a traffic stop. 7 questions, 10 at a time, starting with ones you haven't seen.
Rules to remember7 key your license and traffic stops rulesShow the rules
- Iowa does not require a license to drive farm equipment between the home farm and nearby farmland within two miles. (p. 4)
- Living in Iowa continuously for 30 days is one of the ways you become an Iowa resident for licensing purposes. (p. 4)
- The driving test is not required if you meet the driver's education course requirement. (p. 5)
- Iowa accepts an insurance card that is either printed or electronic as proof of liability insurance. (p. 5)
- Iowa drivers must carry current proof of registration and an insurance card showing liability insurance. (p. 5)
- When signaled to stop, pull over carefully to a clear, safe area. (p. 64)
- Turn off the vehicle, keep your hands visible (the steering wheel is recommended), stay calm and follow the officer's instructions. (p. 64)
Taken from the explanations to checked practice questions; page numbers link to the official handbook.
Sample your license and traffic stops questions
1.In what form may you show your proof of liability insurance in Iowa?
- ANo card; the officer checks a database
- BAn electronic card from the DOT app only
- CA printed card signed by your agent
- DA printed or an electronic card
Show the answer
✓ D. A printed or an electronic card
Iowa accepts an insurance card that is either printed or electronic as proof of liability insurance.
Source: Iowa Driver's License Manual (Complete Book) (back cover 'M M1170 07/23/2026'), page 5
2.A 16-year-old has finished an Iowa-approved driver's education course. Which licensing step may they skip?
- AThe vision screening
- BNo step; all are still required
- CThe knowledge test
- DThe driving test
Show the answer
✓ D. The driving test
The driving test is not required if you meet the driver's education course requirement. The vision screening and knowledge test are still required.
Source: Iowa Driver's License Manual (Complete Book) (back cover 'M M1170 07/23/2026'), page 5
3.How long must you live in Iowa without a break to count as an Iowa resident for driver licensing?
- A30 days
- B60 days
- C90 days
- D180 days
Show the answer
✓ A. 30 days
Living in Iowa continuously for 30 days is one of the ways you become an Iowa resident for licensing purposes.
Source: Iowa Driver's License Manual (Complete Book) (back cover 'M M1170 07/23/2026'), page 4
4.After you pull over for a law enforcement officer, what should you do with your hands?
- AKeep them visible on the steering wheel
- BHold them out of the open window
- CReach into the glove box for papers
- DRest them out of sight in your lap
Show the answer
✓ A. Keep them visible on the steering wheel
Turn off the vehicle, keep your hands visible (the steering wheel is recommended), stay calm and follow the officer's instructions.
Source: Iowa Driver's License Manual (Complete Book) (back cover 'M M1170 07/23/2026'), page 64