www.iowadot.gov
VIEW THE IOWA DRIVER’S LICENSE MANUAL ONLINE AT
HTTPS://IOWADOT.GOV/PUBS/CDLQUICKGUIDE.PDF
CDL
QUICK GUIDE
COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE
With Supplement for Modernized Version
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
1
Denitions
CLP – commercial learner’s permit
CMV – commercial motor vehicle
A motor vehicle or combination of vehicles used
to transport passengers or property if any of
the following apply.
1. The combination of vehicles has a GCWR of
26,001 or more pounds provided the towed
vehicle has a GVWR of 10,001 or more pounds.
2. The motor vehicle has a GVWR of 26,001 or
more pounds.
3. The motor vehicle has a GVWR less than
26,001 pounds and is designed to transport
16 or more passengers, including the driver;
or is redesigned or modied to transport
fewer than 16 persons with disabilities.
4. The motor vehicle has a GVWR less than
26,001 pounds and is used to transport
placardable amounts of hazardous
materials (HAZMAT).
ELDT - Entry-Level Driver Training
Federally- required minimum training standards
for commercial driver license (CDL) holders and
applicants. ELDT is required for drivers applying the
rst time for a Class A or Class B CDL; upgrading an
existing CDL (Class B CDL to Class A CDL); or adding
the following endorsements: hazardous materials
(H), passenger (P), or school bus (S).
FMCSA – Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration
GCWR – gross combination weight rating.
The combined gross vehicle weight ratings of two
or more units. ( ex. GVWR of power unit + GVWR of
trailer = GCWR)
GVWR – gross vehicle weight rating.
This is the manufacturer’s rating of the maximum
load plus the weight of the vehicle. The GVWR label
may be located in the cab, on the trailer hitch, or on
the front of the trailer.
Hazardous material
A substance or material that has been determined
by the U.S. Department of Transportation to
be capable of posing an unreasonable risk to
health, safety, and property when transported in
commerce, and which has been so designated.
Interstate commerce
Moving goods or passengers across a state line,
including international boundaries, or wholly within
one state as part of a through movement that
originates or terminates in another state or country.
Intrastate commerce
Moving goods or passengers solely within the state
of Iowa provided those goods and passengers
originate in Iowa and their destination is within Iowa.
Contents
Denitions_______________________________ 1
Entry-Level Driver Training __________________ 2
Determining the CDL class needed ___________ 3
Who is exempt from holding a CDL in Iowa? ____ 4
Requirements to
obtain a CDL _____________________________ 4
Getting your Class A, B, or C CDL
for the rst time __________________________ 5
CDL licensing ____________________________ 6
CDL vehicle/license classication system ______ 6
CDL Licensing and Passenger Vehicle
Congurations ___________________________ 7
Iowa driver’s licensing requirements for some
common truck congurations _______________ 7
Iowa driver’s licensing requirements for some
common passenger vehicles ________________ 8
Iowa driver’s licensing: Typical tow truck
congurations ____________________________ 9
CDL and CLP endorsements ________________ 10
CDL and CLP restrictions __________________ 11
Restricted CDL __________________________ 12
Tickets/Violations ________________________ 13
Disqualications _________________________ 13
Open Container law ______________________ 13
Class D chaueur’s license requirements _____ 13
CDL Testing _____________________________ 14
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
2
Entry-Level Driver Training Requirements for CDL Applicants
The new Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations require that all entry-level drivers of commercial motor vehicles
(CMVs) receive training from a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
Beginning February 7, 2022, to be eligible to take required skills or knowledge tests, commercial driver’s license (CDL)
applicants must have completed applicable entry-level driver training from a registered training provider.
ELDT
Entry-Level
Driver Training
Use the scenario chart below to determine if you are required to complete entry-level driver training.
The driver is not required to complete entry-level driver
training, as long as the driver obtains a CDL before the
CLP expires.
The driver is not required to complete entry-level
driver training for the previously-issued license or
endorsement, even if it has since lapsed.
The driver must complete the required entry-level
driver training.
The driver must complete the required entry-level
driver training.
The driver must complete the required entry-level
driver training for the class of CDL to which the driver
is upgrading or the endorsement(s) for which the
driver is applying.
A driver was issued a CDL or an
S, P, or H endorsement before February 7, 2022…
A driver holds a CLP that was issued before
February 7, 2022, but the CLP expires before the driver
applies for his or her CDL…
A driver obtains a CLP on or after February 7, 2022...
A driver held a CDL prior to the compliance date,
and applies for an upgrade to a higher class
of CDL, or an S, P, or H endorsement for the first
time on or after February 7, 2022…
Complete training with a registered training provider
Entry-level drivers must select a training provider that is listed on the
Training Provider Registry. Only registered training providers will be
able to submit certification of a driver’s completion of entry-level driver
training to the Training Provider Registry.
When am I eligible to take my CDL skills or knowledge test?
Training must be completed before taking a CDL skills test or, if the driver
is applying for the H endorsement, the knowledge test.
If the State Driver Licensing Agency cannot electronically verify that these
requirements are met, the State is not permitted to administer the CDL skills
or knowledge test to the driver.
What must drivers do to meet the ELDT requirements?
A driver holds a CLP that was
issued before February 7, 2022...
ELDT EXCEPTIONS. The ELDT regulations do not apply to individuals that are not required to have a CDL as
outlined in 49 CFR part 383, or for whom the state has waived the CDL skills test.
If Then
LEARN MORE AT:
http://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov
or
scan the
code using
the camera
on your
smartphone.
TRAINING
PROVIDER REGISTRY
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3
Is the
GCWR 26,001
lbs. or more?
Is the
vehicle designed
to transport 16 or
more passengers
including the
driver?
YES YES YES
Class A
No CDL
Is the
power unit’s
GVWR
26,001 lbs.
or more?
Determining the CDL class needed
CDL class type quick reference diagram
GVWR: weight of an individual power unit, trailer, or other towed unit.
GCWR: combined weight of the two vehicles that make up a combination vehicle.
GVWR (Power Unit) + GVWR (Trailer) = GCWR
Class D chaueur
may be required,
see page 13
NO
Is the
trailer’s GVWR
10,001 lbs. or
more? (If a single
vehicle with no
trailer, choose
“NO.”)
Class B
Class A
NONO
Is the
trailer’s GVWR
10,001 lbs. or
more? (If a single
vehicle with no
trailer, choose
“NO.”)
Class C
Class C
YES
YES
YES
Is the
vehicle
transporting haz-
ardous materials in
a placardable
quantity?
NO
NO
NO
START
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4
Who is exempt from
holding a CDL in Iowa?
Requirements to
obtain a CDL
• Be at least age 18.
• Provide proof of full name, date of birth, and
Social Security number.
• Proof of citizenship or lawful permanent
residency.
• Provide proof of Iowa residency
• Vision screening
• Hold a CLP (commercial learner’s permit) for
at least 14 days prior to application for CDL
• An interstate driving record check will be
performed for all CDL applicants; the check
must show the applicant is eligible for
commercial licensing in all other states.
• Knowledge tests
The knowledge test(s) that an applicant is
required to take depends on the type of license,
including any endorsements, the driver is
applying for.
(number of questions/allowed to miss):
General knowledge for any CDL (50/10)
Combination vehicle for Class A (20/04)
Air brake (25/05)
Passenger (20/04)
School bus (20/04)
Doubles/Triples (20/04)
Hazmat (30/06)
Tank (20/04)
Iowa operator (if applicable) (25/05)
• Complete Entry-Level Driver Training, if
applicable.
• Skills test – You must provide a vehicle
representing the type and class of license
you are applying for. There are three
phases of tests:
1. Pre-trip vehicle inspection skills.
Review section 11 in the CDL Manual
https://iowadot.gov/pubs/CDL-manual.pdf
2. Basic vehicle control skills (turning and
backing maneuvers).
See section 12 of the CDL manual.
https://iowadot.gov/pubs/CDL-manual.pdf
3. Safe on-road driving skills.
See section 13 of the CDL manual.
https://iowadot.gov/pubs/CDL-manual.pdf
The use of interpreters and/or translators is prohibited by federal
law. However, the knowledge test may be administered in a
written form, verbally, or in an automated format and can be
administered in a foreign language, provided no interpreter is used
in administering the test.
Fireghter and
police ocer
A volunteer or paid reghter while
operating a re vehicle or a peace
ocer operating a commercial motor
vehicle while executing related
emergency governmental functions.
Military
Active duty military personnel while
operating equipment owned or
operated by the U.S. Department of
Defense.
Recreational vehicle/
motor home
A person operating a recreational
vehicle for personal or family use or a
person operating a vehicle with less
than 26,001 GVWR towing a towable
recreational vehicle or fth-wheel
trailer for personal or family use.
Farmer
A farmer or person working for a
farmer operating a covered farm
vehicle. Covered farm vehicles must be
identied in one of the following ways:
a special farm license plate, an “F”
sticker on the license plate, or drivers
must carry a completed “Designation
as Iowa Covered Farm Vehicle” form
in the covered farm vehicle during
operation. For more information
about covered farm vehicles,
visit: iowadot.gov/farmersafety/map-
21-covered-farm-vehicle-exceptions
Home care
An in-home care aide operating a
motor vehicle in the course of the in-
home care aide’s duties.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
5
Getting your Class A, B, or C CDL for the rst time
STEP 1:
Determine the type of CDL you need
Visit https://iowadot.gov/mvd/cdl/Commercial-drivers-
licenses to determine what type (class) of CDL you
need.
STEP 2:
Make your appointment
Make an appointment at a driver’s license service
center to take the knowledge test for the CDL class
you’re applying for.
STEP 3:
Prepare for your appointment
Before your appointment, visit https://iowadot.gov/
mvd/cdl/Commercial-drivers-licenses to determine
what you need to bring to your appointment and
access study materials.
STEP 4:
Get your commercial learner’s permit
(CLP)
Upon successful completion of your knowledge test,
you will be issued a commercial learner’s permit
(CLP). The cost of the CLP is $12, and it is valid for one
year.
What can I do with my CLP?
• Drive a commercial vehicle specic to the type of
CLP you obtained when accompanied by another
driver who has a CDL valid for the same type of
commercial vehicle.
• A CLP must be held for at least 14 days before the
skills (driving) test can be completed.
What can’t I do with my CLP?
• Drive a commercial vehicle by yourself.
• Drive a vehicle that your CLP is not valid for.
• Use a cell phone while driving a commercial vehicle.
• Carry passengers while operating a commercial
vehicle (other than the CDL driver accompanying
you, other trainees, and test examiners).
• Drive a commercial vehicle containing hazmat
or drive a tank vehicle that previously contained
hazmat that is not purged of residue.
• Drive a tank vehicle containing cargo.
The same rules that apply to CDL drivers also apply
to CLP drivers. Certain violations could result in
the disqualication of your commercial operating
privileges.
STEP 5:
Complete entry-level driver training
(ELDT)
Federal requirement beginning Feb. 7, 2022
ELDT regulations require that all entry-level drivers
of commercial motor vehicles receive training from a
provider listed on FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/
• Type and cost of ELDT varies based on the
provider you choose.
STEP 6:
Complete your CDL skills (driving)
test
Make an appointment at a driver’s license service
center or with an authorized third-party tester to
complete your skills test.
Completion of your ELDT will be veried
electronically before you will be able to take your
skills test.
If you choose a third-party tester, you will still need
to make an appointment at a driver’s license service
center to get your CDL.
STEP 7:
Certify how you operate with your
CDL
All CDL Holders must certify how they use their
commercial motor vehicles, which may require you to
obtain a medical certicate. Visit: https://iowadot.gov/
mvd/cdl/medical-cards-and-certication to learn more.
wish to operate.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
6
CDL licensing
This chart oers another way to look at what type of CDL is required for some
common commercial motor vehicles.
CDL vehicle/license classication system
Type A vehicle/ Class A CDL
Any combination of vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 or more pounds, provided the GVWR of the vehicle(s)
being towed is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
Class A license holders may, with appropriate endorsements, operate vehicles within types B and C.
Type B vehicle/Class B CDL
Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds, or any such vehicle towing a vehicle not in
excess of 10,000 pounds GVWR.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
Class B license holders may, with appropriate endorsements, operate vehicles within Type C.
Type C vehicle/Class C CDL
Any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that meets neither the denition of Type A nor
Type B but is designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver; or is redesigned or
modied to transport fewer than 16 persons with disabilities.
This also applies to vehicles not meeting the Type A or B denitions but are used in the transport of
placardable amounts of hazardous materials.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
CDL fees: $8 per year
(initial and renewal) plus applicable endorsement or restriction fees.
The holder of a Class A, B, or C CDL may also operate passenger cars and other non-CMVs, except a motorcycle,
without additional licensing.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
7
CDL Licensing and Passenger Vehicle Congurations
This chart oers an alternative way of determining which type of CDL license
you require by use of towed GVWR, GCWR, and power unit GVWR. Additionally,
there is guidance on Iowa driver licensing requirements for some common
passenger vehicles.
Iowa driver’s licensing requirements for some
common truck congurations
Power unit GVWR
Towed vehicle
GVWR
GCWR
License class
Less than
10,001
pounds
10,001
pounds or
more
Less than
26,001
pounds
26,001
pounds
or more
Less than 16,001 lbs.
x
C noncommercial
26,001 lbs. or more
x
B CDL
Less than 26,001 lbs.
x x
C noncommercial
Less than 26,001 lbs.
x x
C noncommercial
Less than 16,001 lbs.
x x
A CDL
16,001 to 26,000 lbs.
x x
A CDL
26,001 lbs. or more
x x
B CDL
26,001 lbs. or more
x x
A CDL
• Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR): weight specied by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a single vehicle.
• Gross combination weight rating (GCWR): combined weights specied by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of each
vehicle in a combination of vehicles.
The towed vehicle aects license class.
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8
Iowa driver’s licensing requirements for
some common passenger vehicles
Typical vehicle
Seating
capacity*
Driver status GVWR
License class
Volunteer Paid
Less than
26,001 lbs
26,001 or
more lbs
Less than 16
x x
C noncommercial
Less than 16
x x
D noncommercial
before Jan. 1, 2017
See Chaueur’s License
page 13
Less than 16
x x
D noncommercial
Jan. 1, 2017 and after
See Chaueur’s License
page 13
7-15
x x
D noncommercial
Jan. 1, 2017 and after
See Chaueur’s License
page 13
Less than 7
x x
C noncommercial
Ridesharing Vehicle
Jan. 1, 2017 and after
(any personal vehicle used for
ridesharing such as Uber, Lyft, etc.)
See Ridesharing Services
page 13
Less than 16
x x
C noncommercial
16 or more
x x x
C CDL
16 or more
x x x
B CDL
16 or more
x x x
B CDL
16 or more
x x x
B CDL
16 or more
x x x
B CDL
* Seating capacity includes the driver.
• Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR): weight specied by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a single vehicle.
• A Class C noncommercial license is the basic driver’s license.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
9
Typical tow truck congurations
The type of license required when driving the tow truck only, without a towed vehicle, may be dierent
from the license required when the tow truck is towing another vehicle, depending upon the weight of
the towed vehicle.
This chart shows the license required for the tow truck alone and the license required when the tow truck is
towing another vehicle.
Iowa driver’s licensing: Typical tow truck
congurations
Tow Truck Alone Vehicle GVWR License Class
Example 1
Less than 26,001 lbs. C noncommercial
Example 2
26,001 lbs. or more B CDL
Tow Truck Example
(above)
Towed Vehicle GVWR GCWR
License Class
(tow truck plus
towed vehicle)
Less than
10,001 lbs.
10,001 lbs.
or more
Less than
26,001 lbs.
26,001 lbs.
or more
1
x x
C noncommercial
1
x x
C noncommercial
1
x x
A CDL
2
x x
B CDL
2
x x
A CDL
Notes:
A driver who tows a vehicle in an emergency “rst move” from the site of a vehicle malfunction or
accident on a highway to the nearest appropriate repair facility is not required to have the endorsement(s)
applicable to the towed vehicle. In any subsequent move, a driver who tows a vehicle from one repair or
disposal facility to another is required to have the endorsement(s) applicable to the towed vehicle with one
exception: a tow truck driver is not required to have a passenger endorsement to tow a passenger vehicle.
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10
CDL and CLP endorsements
P (passenger) FEE: $10
Required for any vehicle rated for 16 or more people,
including the operator, or originally designed for
16 or more people, but altered to provide space for
passengers with disabilities. Knowledge and driving
test required.
S (school bus) FEE: $10
Required when transporting pre-primary, primary,
or secondary school students in a yellow school
bus. The passenger endorsement is always required.
Knowledge and driving test.
H (hazardous materials [hazmat]) FEE: $5
Required for operating any vehicle carrying
a quantity of hazardous materials requiring
placarding. Knowledge test for initial issuance
or out-of-state hazmat endorsement transfer,
renewal, and upgrade required. A CDL with this
endorsement is not eligible for electronic renewal.
CDL holders applying for an Iowa DOT hazardous
materials endorsement must have a valid
Transportation Security Administration’s Security
Threat Assessment. The Iowa DOT does not
administer this program. For information about the
assessment, call the TSA at 855-347-8371 or visit:
www.hazprints.com. Knowledge test required.
T (doubles/triples) FEE: $5
Required when pulling multiple trailers. Knowledge
test required.
• Note: Iowa law does not permit the operation
of triple trailers; however, a driver whose home
state is Iowa may obtain the endorsement to
haul a triple trailer in those jurisdictions where
they are legal
N (tank) FEE: $5
Required for vehicles with a permanent or
temporarily attached tank or tanks with an
individual rated capacity of more than 119 gallons
and a combined rated capacity of 1,000 gallons.
This does not include vehicles transporting an
empty storage tank with a rated capacity of
1,000 gallons or more that is not designated for
transportation and is temporarily attached to a
atbed trailer.
X (tank and hazmat)
Both the tanker knowledge test and the
hazmat knowledge tests are required and the
endorsements are paid for separately
(see above for fee information). A CDL with
this endorsement is not eligible for electronic
renewal.
• Note: the hazmat endorsement fee is charged
at each renewal. All other endorsement fees
are only charged one time when the driver
obtains the endorsement for the rst time.
This does not apply to individuals reinstating
endorsements on their CDL. A reinstatement of
endorsements will accrue endorsement fees at
time of issuance.
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11
CDL and CLP restrictions
The following restrictions may apply to a CDL or a CLP
E – No manual transmission equipped CMV. This restriction applies to a licensee who performs
the skills test in a vehicle equipped with automatic transmission and prohibits the operation of a
commercial motor vehicle equipped with a manual transmission
K – Intrastate only. This restriction applies to a licensee who self-certies to non-excepted
intrastate or excepted intrastate driving and prohibits the operation of a commercial motor vehicle
in interstate commerce. For more information about medical certication requirements visit http://
iowadot.gov/mvd/cdl/medical-cards-and-certication.
L – no air brake equipped CMV. This restriction applies to a licensee who either fails the air brake
component of the knowledge test or performs the skills test in a vehicle not equipped with air brakes
and prohibits the operation of a commercial motor vehicle equipped with an air brake system.
M – no Class A passenger vehicle. This restriction applies to a licensee who applies for a
passenger endorsement and performs the skills test in a passenger vehicle that requires a Class B
commercial driver’s license and prohibits operation of a passenger vehicle that requires a Class A
commercial driver’s license.
N – no Class A and B passenger vehicle. This restriction applies to a licensee who applies for a
passenger endorsement and performs the skills test in a passenger vehicle that requires a Class C
commercial driver’s license and prohibits operation of a passenger vehicle that requires a Class A or
Class B commercial driver’s license.
O – No tractor-trailer CMV. This restriction applies to a licensee who performs the skills test in a
combination vehicle for a Class A commercial driver’s license with the power unit and towed unit
connected with a pintle hook or other non-fth wheel connection and prohibits operation of a
tractor-trailer combination connected by a fth wheel
V – medical variance. This restriction applies to a licensee when the department is notied that
the driver has been issued a medical variance and indicates there is information about a medical
variance on the driver record accessible to law enforcement.
Z – No full air brake equipped CMV. This restriction applies to a licensee who performs the skills
test in a vehicle equipped with air over hydraulic brakes and prohibits the operation of a commercial
motor vehicle equipped with any braking system operating fully on the air brake principle
The following additional restrictions may only be applied to a CLP
P – no passengers in CMV bus. This restriction applies to a permit holder who has a commercial
learner’s permit with a passenger or school bus endorsement and prohibits the operation of a
commercial motor vehicle carrying passengers, other than federal/state auditors and inspectors, test
examiners, other trainees, and the commercial driver’s license holder accompanying the permit holder
X – no cargo in CMV tank vehicle. This restriction applies to a permit holder who has a
commercial learner’s permit with a tank vehicle endorsement and prohibits the operation of any
tank vehicle containing cargo or any tank vehicle that previously contained hazardous materials that
has not been purged of any residue.
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12
Restricted CDL
A restricted CDL may be issued to suppliers or
employees of suppliers of agricultural inputs.
Agricultural inputs means applicators of agricultural
chemicals, fertilizer, seed, or animal feeds. The
applicant may operate Class B or Class C vehicles,
but not a Class A combination vehicle.
The applicant must have two years of driving
experience with a license permitting at least two
years of unaccompanied driving. This does not
include a motorized bicycle license, a minor’s school
license, or a minor’s restricted license.
Additionally, the applicant must have a good
driving record for the most recent two-year period.
A “good driving record” means a driving record
showing:
• No multiple licenses.
• No driver’s license suspensions, revocations,
disqualications, denials, bars, or cancellations of
any kind.
• No convictions in any type of motor vehicle for:
• Driving under the inuence of alcohol or a
controlled substance.
• Leaving the scene of an accident.
• Committing any felony involving a motor
vehicle.
• Speeding 15 miles per hour or more over the
posted speed limit.
• Reckless driving, drag racing, or eluding
or attempting to elude a law enforcement
ocer.
• Improper or erratic lane changes.
• Following too closely.
• A moving violation that contributed to a
motor vehicle accident.
• A violation deemed serious under 761 IAC
615.17(321).
• No record of contributive accidents
A restricted CDL is valid for a commercial motor
vehicle (CMV) requiring tank, air brake, and
hazardous materials endorsements/ restrictions; but
no CDL knowledge or driving tests will be required,
nor will endorsement fees be charged, and no CDL
endorsements/restrictions will show on the license.
Restricted CDL holders may operate between the
place of business and the farm currently being
serviced, but not to exceed 150 miles from the place
of business.
Individual periods that are less than 210 days may
be taken in 70 or 105 day increments, provided the
cumulative period of validity in the calendar year
does not exceed 210 days. An individual period
of validity may be extended by 35 days, provided
the application for extension is made before the
individual period expires and again provided the
cumulative period of validity In the calendar year
does not exceed 210 days. (An application for
extension that is made after an individual period
expires will be treated as an application for a new
individual period.)
A restricted commercial driver’s license must be
validated for commercial motor vehicle operation
for each individual period of validity. This means
that the licensee must have their good driving
record conrmed and a new card issued at each
application for an individual period of validity.
Examples:
Driver A elects a single restricted CDL valid for 210
days, beginning March 15 and continuing through
Oct. 11. Driver A will go to a driver’s license issuance
site for the restricted CDL before it is issued to
conrm his good driving record and be issued the
card, and after the restricted CDL expires will not be
eligible for an extension or another restricted CDL
until the next calendar year.
Driver B elects to divide her 210 days for the
calendar year into two 105-day periods, one
beginning March 1 and continuing through June 14,
and one beginning Sept. 1 and continuing through
Dec. 15. Driver B will go to a driver’s license issuance
site for each restricted CDL before it is issued to
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13
conrm her good driving record and be issued the
card, and after the second restricted CDL expires
will not be eligible for an extension or another
restricted CDL until the next calendar year.
Driver C elects to divide his 210 days for the
calendar year into three 70-day periods, one
beginning April 10 and continuing through June
19; one beginning Aug. 14 and continuing through
Oct. 23; and one beginning Nov. 1 and continuing
through Jan. 1. Driver C will go to a driver’s license
issuance site for each restricted CDL before it is
issued to conrm his good driving record and be
issued the card, and after the third restricted CDL
expires will not be eligible for an extension or
another restricted CDL until the next calendar year.
Driver D initially applies for a restricted CDL that
is valid for 105 days, beginning March 20 and
continuing through July 3, but because of ooding
decides to extend that period of validity by 35 days
to Aug. 7. Driver D expended 140 days of her total
210 days for the calendar year, and would be eligible
only for a second restricted CDL valid for a period of
70 days the remainder of the calendar year.
The only hazardous materials allowed
to be carried with a restricted CDL:
• Liquid fertilizers, such as anhydrous ammonia,
in quantities of 3,000 gallons or less.
• Solid fertilizers, such as ammonium nitrate,
provided they are not mixed with any organic
substance.
The cost of a restricted CDL is $8 per year. Each time
the driver comes in to update the validation period
there will be a $10 charge and a complete search of
the applicant’s driving record.
When the driver is not operating a CMV, he/she
can only drive the types of vehicles he/she was
valid for before the restricted CDL was issued. That
license type will be indicated on the restriction
supplement. A person already holding a CDL or
commercial learner’s permit is not eligible for a
restricted CDL.
Tickets/Violations
Federal regulations require that Iowa licensed
commercial drivers must report all violations
(except parking violations) to their employers
within 30 days of conviction, whether the driver was
operating a commercial or noncommercial vehicle.
The drivers must also notify Driver & Identication
Services , Iowa Department of Transportation, P.O.
Box 9204, Des Moines, Iowa 50306-9204 of any
out-of-state violations received (except parking
violations) in commercial or noncommercial vehicles.
Unemployed drivers should notify Driver &
Identication Services of all violations (except
parking violations). Information required in this
notication includes date, location (town and state),
driver’s name, driver’s license number, driver’s
signature, nature of violation, and type of vehicle
operated. Individual drivers should determine if the
requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Administration’s regulations in the U.S. Code of
Federal Regulations 383.31 and 391.27 apply to them.
Disqualications
Federal regulations require that certain oenses
committed in a CMV or non-CMV will result in a
CDL holder’s disqualication for specied periods
of time, up to and including possible lifetime
disqualication. For further information on specic
disqualication reasons, please refer to CFR 383.51
or refer to our CDL manual online at
https://iowadot.gov/pubs/CDL-manual.pdf.
Open Container law
Iowa law and federal safety regulations prevent
the driver of any commercial vehicle from having
opened or unopened alcohol in the vehicle. The
penalty for a violation is a ne and 24-hours out-of-
service.
It is illegal in Iowa to drive with an open container
of beer or any other alcoholic beverage if the
open container is in the passenger compartment,
including the glove compartment of a
noncommercial vehicle. This applies to both drivers
and passengers.
The penalty for violating this open container law
can be a $100 ne or 30 days in jail.
A work permit (temporary restricted license) may not be used to operate a CMV.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
14
Class D chaueur’s license requirements
Class D license fees: $8 per year (initial and renewal)
The Class D (chaueur’s) license is NOT valid as a CDL.
Iowa law requires drivers to possess a Class D (chaueur’s) license unless they possess a CDL valid for the
vehicle when transporting 15 or fewer persons, including driver, for wages, compensation, or hire.
Persons exempt from Class D (chaueur’s) license requirements are:
• Military personnel while on active duty and while operating military vehicles.
• A paid or volunteer re ghter operating a re truck, or a ambulance or rescue squad attendant
when operating an ambulance or rescue squad apparatus.
• A reghter, ambulance driver, or rescue squad attendant while operating a re, ambulance, or
rescue vehicle.
• Employees of the Iowa Department of Corrections, Iowa Veterans Home, Iowa Braille and Sight
Saving School, Iowa School for the Blind, or Department of Human Services transporting persons or
a home care aid in the course of their duties.
The Class D (chaueur’s) license will have endorsement 3 on the license indicating that it is valid to
operate a passenger vehicle designed to carry 15 or fewer persons, including the driver.
A Class D license is also valid to operate a private passenger car or other vehicles, except a motorcycle or
a vehicle requiring specic licensing to operate.
To obtain a Class D license with endorsement “3,” the driver must have a clean driving record for the
previous two years. If the driver does not have a valid license, they will also be required to take a driving
and knowledge test.
Ridesharing Services: A person driving a personal, noncommercial vehicle as a rideshare driver to
oer or provide prearranged rides through a digital network controlled by a ridesharing company (for
instance, Uber or Lyft) in return for compensation or payment or fee is not required to obtain a Class D
Chaueur’s license and may drive for that purpose with a Class C noncommercial driver’s license.
Taxicab drivers: A person operating a taxicab with a seating capacity of less than seven persons that is
not being operated on a regular route or between specied points is not required to obtain a Class D
chaueur’s license and may drive for that purpose with a Class C noncommercial driver’s license.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
15
CDL Testing
The CDL skill/driving tests are given Tuesday through Saturday at the Iowa DOT’s driver’s license service
centers. Some Iowa county treasurer’s oces also oer the CDL skill/driving tests.
Visit: https://iowadot.gov/mvd/iowa-dot-locations
to locate the testing site nearest you and make an appointment.
Contact Information
Customer Services Bureau: 515-244-8725 or 515-244-9124
Oce of Motor Vehicle Enforcement – Commercial vehicle information:
https://iowadot.gov/mve/Contact-us
Oce of Motor Carrier Services: 515-237-3264
All CDL holders must certify how they use or intend to use their commercial
motor vehicle and may be required to submit a medical certicate to the DOT.
You will be asked to certify before you are issued a Commercial Learner’s Permit. Please visit
iowadot.gov/mvd/cdl/medical-cards-and-certication for more information about these requirements
so you are prepared to make this selection.
iowadot.gov/mvd/motorcarriers/cdl_pretrip.pdf
VEHICLE TYPE
(GVWR=gross vehicle
weight rating)
OLD LICENSE REQUIRED
(on or before June 30, 2021)
LICENSE REQUIRED
AS OF JULY 1, 2021
CDL-exempt truck-tractor
semitrailer combination
(e.g., covered farm vehicle)
Class D-1 chaueur license
required for a farmer/farm
employee operating more than
100 miles from farmland
Class C noncommercial license
required for a farmer/farm
employee operating within
100 miles of farmland
(2020 law change)
Class C noncommercial
Single unit vehicle between
16,001-26,000 pounds
GVWR (e.g., straight truck)
Class D-2 chaueur license
(unless a farm exemption
applied)
Class C noncommercial
Any vehicle transporting
15 or fewer persons,
including the driver, for
wages, compensation, or
hire
Class D-3 chaueur license* No change
* Exemptions from chaueur requirements under 321.1(8) include, but are not limited to, reghters, ambulance
attendants, and certain state agency patient or inmate transfers.
Recent law changes to chaueur requirements
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
16
A printed copy of the checklists will be provided to you when you take your test to check o items as you have
completed them, or use as a reference.
To get credit for the inspection item(s), you must:
• Name,
• Point to and/or touch, and
• Fully explain what you are inspecting each safety critical item for.
In-Vehicle/Engine Start
*air or *hydraulic brake check
* Automatic failure if not performed correctly
parking & trailer brake check
service brake check
lighting indicators
emergency equipment
windshield & trac monitoring devices
wipers & washers
heater & defroster
horn(s)
Lights Operations Check
all external lights
Front of Vehicle/Engine Area
lenses
fluid levels
fluid & air leaks
steering systems
Steering Axle
tires
rims
lug nuts
springs/mounts & air bags & shocks
brake lines or hoses & leaks
brake contaminates
Side of Vehicle
lenses & reflectors
trac monitoring devices
battery
fuel tank(s)/DEF tank
frame(s)
Combination Vehicles Only
air & electric lines & connectors
fifth wheel skid plate or pintle hookor tow hitch
kingpin & apron & gap or drawbar ring & tongue
or coupler & tongue
locking & safety devices
Trailer Only
landing gear & clearance
reflective tape
Rear of Trailer
lenses & reflectors
Class A Inspection
Tractor Semi-Trailer, Truck & Trailer, or Bus & Trailer
1
Preparing for your vehicle inspection test
The checklists on this page and the following contain all the items you will be required
to inspect based on the type of vehicle you’re testing for.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Quick Guide | For additional information, call 515-244-8725
17
In-Vehicle/Engine Start
*air or *hydraulic brake check
* Automatic failure if not performed correctly
parking & trailer brake check
service brake check
lighting indicators
emergency equipment
windshield & trac monitoring devices
wipers & washers
heater & defroster
horn(s)
Lights Operations Check
all external lights
Front of Vehicle/Engine Area
lenses
fluid levels
fluid & air leaks
steering systems
Steering Axle
tires
rims
lug nuts
springs/mounts & air bags & shocks
brake lines or hoses & leaks
brake contaminates
Side of Vehicle
lenses & reflectors
trac monitoring devices
battery
fuel tank(s)/DEF tank
frame(s)
Rear of Vehicle
lenses & reflectors
Class B or Class C Inspection
Straight Truck or Other Straight Vehicle
2
Class B or Class C Inspection
Passenger or School Bus
In-Vehicle/Engine Start
*air or *hydraulic brake check
* Automatic failure if not performed correctly
parking & trailer brake check
service brake check
lighting indicators
emergency equipment
windshield & trac monitoring devices
wipers & washers
heater & defroster
horn(s)
Lights Operations Check
all external lights
Front of Vehicle/Engine Area
lenses
fluid levels
fluid & air leaks
steering systems
Steering Axle
tires
rims
lug nuts
springs/mounts & air bags & shocks
brake lines or hoses & leaks
brake contaminates
Side of Vehicle
lenses & reflectors
trac monitoring devices
battery
fuel tank(s)/DEF tank
frame(s)
Rear of Vehicle
lenses & reflectors
Passenger and School Bus Only
passenger entry & lift
emergency exits
passenger seating
passenger monitoring devices
student lights (front & back)
stop arm(s) & safety arm
first aid & body fluid kits
3
CLASS A CDL
Any combination of vehicles with a GVWR of
26,001 or more lbs. provided the GVWR of the
vehicle(s) being towed is in excess of 10,000 lbs.
A common Class A vehicle is a tractor trailer also
known as a semi.
CLASS B CDL
Any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or
more lbs. or any such vehicle towing a vehicle
NOT in excess of 10,000 lbs. GVWR.
Common vehicles include school buses, dump trucks
and straight trucks.
CLASS C CDL
Any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles, that
does not meet the denition of Class A or B,
but is either designed to transport 16 or more
passengers, including the driver, or is placarded
for hazardous materials.
CDL Classications Representative Vehicle Examples
COMMERCIAL LEARNER’S PERMIT (CLP)
You must have a CLP for at least 14 days before
getting an initial CDL or a CDL upgrade, if it requires
a skills test.
You can’t take a skills test during the rst 14 days
after issuance. Scheduling a skills test when issuing
the CLP is OK, as long as it is scheduled 15 days or
more after the CLP was issued.
Your CLP is valid for one year from the date of
issuance, with no renewal period.
CDL RENEWALS
PROOF OF LAWFUL PRESENCE
U.S. citizens are only required to show proof of lawful
presence one time. When renewing their CDL, drivers will
need to bring one of the following documents:
• Certied copy of US Birth Certicate
• Valid US Passport
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
• Certicate of Naturalization
• Certicate of Citizenship
• Permanent resident card
• Employment authorization document
(EAD) or I-94 document
DRIVERS MUST TEST IN A
REPRESENTATIVE VEHICLE.
LIMOUSINE
TRANSIT BUS
CEMENT TRUCK
GARBAGE TRUCK
BOOM TRUCK
DUMP TRUCK
SCHOOL BUS
PASSENGER VEHICLE
COMPACT SCHOOL BUS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS PLACARDS
non-flammable
gas
flammable
gas
inhalation
hazard
ENTRY-LEVEL DRIVER TRAINING
(ELDT)
Eective February 2022, FMCSA regulations
require that all entry-level drivers of
commercial motor vehicles receive training
from a provider listed on FMCSA’s Training
Provider Registry.
https://tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov/
Licensing requirements
Possible endorsements and restrictions that may be added to the
license based on the type of vehicle driven
KNOWLEDGE TESTS
REQUIRED
REQUIRED TESTING
POSSIBLE
ENDORSEMENTS
POSSIBLE RESTRICTIONS
Blue Text - Restrictions only added to a CLP
CLASS A
• General knowledge
exam
• Combination
Vehicle- knowledge
exam
• Air brake –
knowledge exam (if
applicable)
• Pre-Trip Inspection
• Basic Skills
• Road Test
H– Hazardous Materials
N– Tank Vehicle
T– Doubles/Triples
X– Hazmat & Tank comb
E– No manual transmission equipped CMV
K – CDL Intrastate Only
L– No air brake equipped CMV
M– No Class A passenger vehicle
N– No Class A & B passenger vehicle
O– No tractor trailer CMV
V– CDL Medical Variance
X– No cargo in a CMV tank vehicle
Z– No full airbrake equipped CMV
CLASS B
• General knowledge
exam
• Air brake –
knowledge exam (if
applicable)
• Pre-Trip Inspection
• Basic Skills
• Road Test
Adding the following
endorsements always requires
pretrip/ skills/road testing:
P - Passenger vehicle
S - School bus
H– Hazardous Material
N– Tank Vehicle
P– Passenger Vehicle
S– School Bus
X– Hazmat & Tank comb
E– No manual transmission equipped CMV
K– CDL Intrastate Only
L– No air brake equipped CMV
N– No Class A & B passenger vehicle
P– No Passengers in a CMV Bus
V– CDL Medical Variance
X– No cargo in a CMV tank vehicle
Z– No full airbrake equipped CMV
CLASS C
• General knowledge
exam
• Air brake –
knowledge exam (if
applicable)
• Pre-Trip Inspection
• Basic Skills
• Road Test
Adding the following
endorsements always requires
pretrip/ skills/road testing:
P - Passenger vehicle
S - School bus
H– Hazardous Materials
N– Tank Vehicle
P– Passenger Vehicle
S– School Bus
X– Hazmat & Tank comb
E– No manual transmission equipped CMV
K– CDL Intrastate Only
L– No air brake equipped CMV
P– No Passengers in a CMV Bus
V– CDL Medical Variance
X– No Cargo in a CMV tank vehicle
Z– No full airbrake equipped CMV
Form 434003 PM 465 10/04/2023
www.iowadot.gov
Federal and state laws prohibit employment and/or public accommodation discrimination on the basis of age, color, creed, disability, gender identity, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sex-
ual orientation, or veteran’s status. If you believe you have been discriminated against, please contact the Iowa Civil Rights Commission at 800-457-4416 or Iowa Department of Transportation’s ar-
mative action ocer. If you need accommodations because of a disability to access the Iowa Department of Transportation’s services, contact the agency’s armative action ocer at 800-262-0003.