DMV Permit Test #1
FREE Iowa DMV Practice Test #1 Page 2 of 5
The DMV practise tests in Iowa have been updated for January 2025. It comprises questions based on the most important traffic signals and legislation for 2025 from the Iowa Driver Handbook. To study for the DMV driving permit test and driver's licence exam, use actual questions that are very similar (often identical!) to the DMV driving permit test and driver's licence exam.
Each question on the practise exam has a tip and explanation to help you recall the ideas. Questions about traffic rules, traffic signs, and driving statutes, as well as information from the Driver Handbook, will be included in the written portion of the official Iowa DMV test.
You must properly answer 28 of the 35 questions to receive a passing mark. To help you prepare for your Iowa instruction permit or driver's licence, take our DMV practise test.
The DMV exam is offered in a variety of languages.
Using any form of testing help will result in an automatic fail, and the DMV may take further action against your driver's licence, so avoid it.
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9 . Passing is prohibited:
All of the above.
Locations where it is unlawful and unsafe to pass another vehicle include hills, curves, intersections, and railroad crossings.
10 . This road sign means:
Regulatory signs provide notice to road users of traffic laws that must be obeyed. Where this sign is present, drivers must drive in the direction indicated by the arrow.
11 . When used on roadways, bicycles are considered:
Bicycles are considered vehicles when used on roadways. Bicyclists and motorists are expected to follow the same rules of the road.
12 . When the road is marked with a solid yellow line and a broken yellow line, with the broken line next to your lane, you may pass:
Only at an intersection.
When there is a solid yellow line and a broken yellow line in the center of the road and the broken line is next to your lane, you may cross the lines to pass if there is no oncoming traffic.
13 . You notice a vehicle defect which may affect the safe operation of your vehicle. You should:
Drive normally.
Any defect that may affect the safe operation of a vehicle should be corrected as soon as possible. Defects should be corrected before the vehicle is driven.
14 . What is the only way to reduce your blood alcohol concentration (BAC)?
Take a cold shower.
The only method that effectively reduces your BAC is to not drink alcohol for a period of time. Coffee, exercise, and cold showers cannot reduce your BAC or change the effects of alcohol. They can help you remain awake, but they cannot change your BAC or make you sober.
15 . This sign means:
Diamond-shaped signs are used to warn of actual or possible hazards. The color orange is used for warning signs usually found in construction or maintenance areas.
16 . Allow extra space in front of your vehicle when following a:
Allow for extra space when driving behind a motorcycle. Motorcycles can stop more quickly than other vehicles can and you must have adequate room to stop if the motorcyclist brakes or falls off. Also, remember that motorcycles are difficult to see at night because they only have one tail light.
2025 Iowa | Frequently Asked Questions
To obtain a driver's license in Iowa, you need to pass a vision screening, knowledge test, and driving skills test. You also need to provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. If you're under 18, you'll require parental consent and completion of a state-approved driver’s education course. Fees apply for the issuance of the license.
In Iowa, the cost of a driver's license depends on the duration of validity. For a 2-year license, it's $8. For a 3-year license, it's $12. A 5-year license costs $20 and an 8-year license costs $32. The cost for a motorcycle endorsement is an additional $2 per year. Please check the Iowa DOT website for the most current fees.
In Iowa, the minimum age to get a learner's permit is 14. However, the minimum age to obtain a full unrestricted driver's license is 17, provided you've held an intermediate license for 12 months without any accidents or violations, and completed a state-approved driver's education course.
When applying for a driver's license in Iowa, you'll need to provide proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), proof of Social Security number (like a Social Security card or W-2), and proof of Iowa residency (like a utility bill or rental agreement). If you're under 18, parental consent is also required.
To arrange a driving test in Iowa, you can schedule an appointment online through the Iowa Department of Transportation's website. Alternatively, you can call or visit your local DOT office. Remember, you must hold an instruction permit and complete a state-approved driver's education course before you can take the driving test.
In Iowa, to obtain a learner's permit you need to be at least 14 years old. Start by studying for the knowledge test using the Iowa Driver's Manual. Then, visit a local Iowa DOT office with a parent or guardian, provide necessary documents, and take the knowledge test. If you pass, you'll receive your learner's permit. Remember to carry it with you whenever you practice driving.
In Iowa, if you're under 18, you need to complete a state-approved driver's education course and log a minimum of 20 hours of supervised driving practice. This must include at least two hours of night driving. These practice hours are meant to prepare you for the driving test and ensure you're safe on the road.
To prepare for your driving test in Iowa, practice driving in various conditions and familiarize yourself with the vehicle you'll use for the test. Review the Iowa Driver's Manual, focusing on road signs, signals, and rules. Practice maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, and stopping smoothly. Lastly, take online practice tests to assess your knowledge and readiness for the actual test.
Common errors during driving tests include failing to check mirrors and blind spots, not signaling or incorrect signaling, poor steering control, incorrect lane positioning, not understanding traffic signs or signals, speeding or driving too slowly, and failing maneuvers like parallel parking and three-point turns. Avoid these errors by practicing thoroughly before your test.
Yes, in Iowa, you are allowed to use your personal car for the driving test. However, your vehicle must meet certain requirements. It should be in good working order with functioning safety features like seat belts and brake lights. Also, the vehicle must be properly insured and registered. It's recommended to familiarize yourself with all controls in the car you'll be using.
If you fail your driving test in Iowa, you will not receive your driver's license immediately. However, you can retake the test. The Iowa Department of Transportation usually requires a two-week waiting period before retaking the test. It's recommended to use this time for additional practice and to address the areas of difficulty noted during the failed test.
Yes, Iowa has specific rules for newly licensed drivers under the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. For instance, drivers under 18 are initially issued an instruction permit. After 12 months, they can apply for an intermediate license, which restricts unsupervised driving between 12:30 am and 5 am and limits the number of passengers. Full privileges are granted at age 18, following a clean driving record.
Currently, the Iowa Department of Transportation does not offer an online option for initial application of a driver's license. You must visit a driver's license issuance site in person for identity verification, testing, and photograph. However, once you have a valid Iowa driver's license, you can renew it online if you meet certain eligibility requirements.
Yes, you can drive in other states with an Iowa learner's permit, but you must adhere to the driving laws of the state you are in. Most states will recognize an out-of-state permit, but it's always best to check with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) of the state you plan to visit to confirm their specific rules and regulations.
In Iowa, a standard adult driver's license is valid for eight years. However, for residents who are 72 years of age or older, the license validity is reduced to two years. Commercial driver's licenses (CDL) are valid for five years. Always check the expiration date on your license to ensure you renew it in a timely manner.
Yes, you can renew your Iowa driver's license online if you meet certain criteria: you are between the ages of 18 and 70, your driver's license is valid or has been expired for less than one year, and your driving privileges are in good standing. If you have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), online renewal is not available.
International students or foreign residents in Iowa must first obtain a Social Security Number or a waiver letter from the Social Security Administration. Then, they need to pass a vision screening, knowledge test, and driving skills test at an Iowa Department of Transportation's driver's license service center. They must also provide proof of identity, residency, and lawful status.
A driver's license and a learner's permit in Iowa have different privileges. A driver's license allows you to drive alone at any time. On the other hand, a learner's permit, or instruction permit, is for beginners. It requires the permit holder to be accompanied by a licensed adult of at least 21 years old when driving.
Yes, in Iowa, you must pass a vision screening test to obtain a driver's license. The minimum requirement is 20/40 vision in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts during the test, a corrective lenses endorsement will be added to your license. A worse eye score of 20/200 or lower results in denial of licensure.
Yes, in Iowa, you can use a rental vehicle for your driving test. However, you must show the rental agreement to the examiner before the test. The rental agreement must be in the name of the person taking the test. Also, make sure the vehicle is in a safe operating condition and is properly insured.
In Iowa, if you fail the driving test, you must wait at least one day before you can retake it. This waiting period allows you time to practice and improve your driving skills. Remember that each failure may result in additional fees when you retake the test, so it's important to prepare thoroughly.
To take the DMV written test in Iowa, you need to provide proof of identity (like a passport or birth certificate), proof of Social Security number (like a Social Security card), and proof of Iowa residency (like a utility bill or lease agreement). If you're under 18, you'll also need parental consent.
Yes, the Iowa DMV written test is available in multiple languages apart from English. These include Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese, Russian, and several others. If a candidate cannot read in any of these languages, an oral exam can be requested. For hearing-impaired individuals, sign language interpreters are available.
If you don't pass the DMV written test in Iowa, you must wait at least one day before retaking it. This gives you time to study and improve your knowledge. Be aware that each attempt may incur additional fees. You can retake the test as many times as needed until you pass, but thorough preparation is advised to pass it sooner.
In Iowa, if you fail the DMV written test, you need to wait at least one day before you can retake it. This waiting period allows you time to study and improve your understanding of the rules of the road. Remember, preparation is key to passing the test.