What to bring to the Iowa DOT permit test

For the learner's permit and knowledge test

• Primary form of identification
• Proof of residency
• Proof of Social Security number
• Parent or guardian written consent (in person or form 430018)

Fees

• Instruction permit - Class C (4 years): $6
• Special minor's restricted license (4 years): $16
• Operator license - Class C (for reference; intermediate/full license): $4 per year

The vision test

Screened without lenses: 20/40 or better (both eyes or better eye) = no restriction; less than 20/40 but at least 20/70 = no driving when headlights are required. Screened with lenses: same thresholds plus a corrective-lens restriction. A driving test is required the first time acuity measures below 20/40, and an applicant who cannot reach 20/40 gets a two-year license. If an applicant cannot attain 20/40 in at least one eye (but can attain 20/70), the license is not issued until a vision specialist's report is submitted. Below 20/70 = denied (discretionary review possible). Left eye below 20/100 = outside mirrors on both sides. Binocular field at least 140 degrees = no restriction; 110-139 degrees (or one eye at least 100 degrees) = outside mirrors both sides; less = denied (discretionary review possible).

Bring your glasses or contact lenses if you wear them to see clearly.

For the road test

• A representative vehicle and proof of financial responsibility (insurance)

What happens on the road test

After you pass: your permit

• Hold it for at least 12 months (instruction permit, or permit plus special minor's restricted license) before an intermediate license at 16 before the road test.
• Log 20 hours of supervised driving, 2 of them at night.
• Must be accompanied by a licensed parent, guardian or custodian, an immediate family member 21 or older, a driver education instructor, or a person 25 or older with written permission from the parent/guardian/custodian
• No unsupervised driving; driving to school or work alone requires a special minor's restricted license
• No use of a cell phone or other electronic communication/entertainment device while driving (permanently installed equipment excepted)
• No more passengers than seat belts
• Violations: first offense warning letter and possible suspension; second offense 30-day suspension; each conviction, crash or restriction violation delays the next GDL step by 6 months
• Parent or guardian written consent required

Before you go

Take a practice test or two the day before, and the exam simulator to check you can pass in the real format. Bring originals, not photocopies, unless the DOT says copies are accepted.