IA DMV Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield IA DMV facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Iowa allows drivers aged 70 and older to renew their license for what shortened cycle? → 2 years
2. An Iowa Instruction Permit holder must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least how old? → 18 years old
3. What type of endorsement must an Iowa CDL holder obtain to legally transport passengers for hire? → P endorsement
4. In Iowa, when is it legal to pass another vehicle on the right? → When the vehicle ahead is turning left and there is a clear lane to the right
5. How long do you have to register a vehicle in Iowa after establishing residency? → 30 days
6. In Iowa, what is the maximum speed limit on a rural interstate highway unless otherwise posted? → 70 mph
7. What is an Iowa 'Junking Certificate'? → A document surrendering the title when a vehicle is destroyed or sold for scrap
8. What does a solid yellow centerline on your side of the road mean? → Passing is prohibited for you
9. If you refuse to take a chemical test when requested by law enforcement in Iowa, your driver's license will be revoked for: → 1 year
10. In Iowa, what should you do when approaching a hill crest with limited visibility? → Reduce speed and stay in your lane, prepared to stop if needed
11. What is the proper way to use your turn signal when changing lanes? → Signal continuously for at least 100 feet before changing lanes
12. In Iowa, when is it legal to use a cell phone while driving? → Only if you are using a hands-free device
13. In Iowa, when approaching a stopped school bus with flashing red lights on a two-lane road, what must you do? → Stop and remain stopped until the lights stop flashing
14. Under Iowa law, which of the following is true about making a right turn on red? → It is allowed after a complete stop unless a sign prohibits it
15. In Iowa, what is the proper procedure when you encounter a roundabout? → Yield to traffic already in the roundabout, enter when safe, and travel counterclockwise
16. Iowa's 'behind-the-wheel' driving skills test for a standard license is typically administered by which agency? → County treasurer's office or approved third-party tester
17. Which of the following is true about Iowa's knowledge (written) test for a driver's license? → There is a waiting period between failed attempts
18. What document must Iowa drivers carry in their vehicle as proof of insurance? → An insurance card or electronic proof of insurance on a mobile device
19. What action should be taken if a vehicle's title is lost or damaged? → Apply for a duplicate title through the Iowa Department of Transportation
20. Which Iowa license class is required to operate a vehicle with a GVWR of more than 26,000 lbs? → Class A
21. If an Iowa vehicle registration is lost or stolen, what should the owner do? → Apply for a duplicate registration at the County Treasurer's office
22. When driving in heavy fog in Iowa, what should you use instead of high-beam headlights? → Low beams or fog lights
23. In Iowa, what is the proper action when your vehicle starts to skid on ice? → Ease off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go
24. A dealer in Iowa must provide a title or Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) to the buyer within how many days? → 30 days
25. What documents are generally required to apply for an Iowa driver's license? → Proof of residency, Social Security number, and identity
26. Which document is NOT typically accepted as proof of Iowa residency when applying for a driver's license? → Out-of-state bank statement
27. What should you do if you miss your exit on an Iowa interstate? → Continue to the next exit and turn around
28. What is the primary purpose of the vision test when applying for an Iowa driver’s license? → To determine if you need corrective lenses
29. How should you handle a blowout at highway speed in Iowa? → Grip the wheel firmly, ease off the gas, and steer straight
30. In Iowa, what is the minimum following distance a driver should maintain behind another vehicle under normal conditions? → 3-second rule