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8/2/2019 Iowa Drivers Manual | Iowa Drivers Handbook

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IOWA DRIVERS MANUAL

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2013-2014

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IA Driver Te

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IA Drivers

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Randomly generates questions from

actual drivers license knowledge tes

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Electronic version of the

Iowa Drivers License

Manual

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iowadot.gov/mvd/ods/iadrivertest_start.h

iowadot.gov/mvd/ods/dlmanual.htm

There is no charge for any Iowa DOT app. Be wary of any

license or other DOT-related app that charges a fee

SMARTER I SIMPLER ICUSTOMER DRIVEN
http://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/ods/iadrivertest_start.htmlhttp://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/ods/dlmanual.htmhttp://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/ods/dlmanual.htmhttp://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/ods/iadrivertest_start.html


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Important message to drivers Iowa lies at the crossroads of America. With Interstates 35 and 80 intersecting

through the heart of Iowa, state and county roads crisscrossing our countryside, and a vast

network of city streets, it will take diligence from each and every driver to ensure the safety

of all drivers and passengers on Iowas roadways.

This drivers manual contains important information for all of Iowas drivers. We

will need all Iowa drivers to maintain concentration on the road and avoid all in-vehicle

distractions to protect each other from roadway accidents.Obeying the law is the first step to maintaining safety. Respecting the speed limit

and obeying traffic signals and other signs is critically important. A new commitment to safe

driving and instructions on how to navigate in hazardous conditions will guarantee that your

driving experience in Iowa will be enjoyable and pleasant.

This manual will provide you the information needed for a general understandingof the principles of safe and lawful operation of a motor vehicle. However, it is NOTintended to serve as a precise statement of Iowa statutes concerning the operation of

a motor vehicle and should not be considered as such.

For further information, check the Code of Iowa, Chapters 321 through 321J, andthe Iowa Department of Transportation rules contained in the Iowa AdministrativeCode.

New ResidentsIf you just moved into Iowa, you will be considered an Iowa resident for the purposes of

drivers licensing and vehicle registration if any one of the following apply: 1. You have registered to vote in this state; 2. You have enrolled your children in public school; 3. You have accepted a permanent job in the state; or 4. You have resided continuously in Iowa for 30 days.

If you have a valid out-of-state license, follow these steps to receive your Iowa license. 1. Go to a drivers license station. 2. Provide necessary documentation (see pages 5 and 6). 3. Take required tests and turn in your out-of-state license to DOT. If your out-of-state

license is valid, you may not have to take a knowledge or road test. 4. Meet Iowa title, registration and use tax requirements on your vehicle. Consult your

local county treasurers office.Be sure to read this manual carefully. Not only will it provide the information to pass the

driver examination, but it will also broaden your knowledge of safe driving practices.

Terry E. BranstadGovernor of Iowa


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Drivers LicensePermanent Examining and Records Stations

For specific hours of operation, call the drivers license stationor the Motor vehicle Information Center at 800-532-1121.

Ames 3708 Lincoln Way515-296-2393 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Ankeny 6310 SE Convenience Blvd.515-244-1052 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Burlington Fairway Shopping Center, 2700 Mount Pleasant St.319-754-8767 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Carroll 510 Carroll St., Suite 1712-792-5269 Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.Cedar Rapids 152 Collins Road NE319-377-6461 (beginning Jan. 14, 2014: 3726 Queens Court SW Suite 201) Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Clinton 316 S. Second St.

563-243-7144 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Council Bluffs Mall of the Bluffs, 1751 Madison Ave., Suite 330712-323-1219 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Davenport Village Shopping Center, 902 W. Kimberly Road Suite 6D563-386-1050 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Des Moines 2339 Euclid Avenue (renewal only)515-244-1052 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Dubuque 2460 Gateway Drive563-583-9844 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Fort Dodge 2313 First Avenue S.515-573-5141 Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Iowa City Eastdale Plaza, 1700 S. First Ave.319-338-5294 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Marshalltown Marshalltown Plaza Mall, 2500 S. Center St.641-752-5668 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Mason City Southport Shopping Center, 1622 S. Federal Ave.641-423-8391 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Muscatine 1903 Park Ave.563-263-5414 Open: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Ottumwa 2849 North Court Road641-682-4855 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Sioux City 3005 Hamilton Blvd.712-255-5539 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.

Spencer Gateway North Shopping Center, East 18th and Grand Avenue712-262-6278 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.Waterloo 103 Crossroads Center319-235-0902 Open:Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.


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County Drivers License Stations

Contact the county treasurers office or visit the countys Web site for information on licensingservices in these counties. Also, visit Web site http://www.iowadot.gov/mvd/ods/dlsites.htm.

Adair Clarke Hamilton Louisa Pocahontas Wright

Adams Clayton Hancock Lucas Poweshiek

Allamakee Crawford Hardin Lyon RinggoldAppanoose Dallas Harrison Madison Sac

Audubon Davis Henry Mahaska Shelby

Benton Decatur Howard Marion Sioux

Boone Delaware Humboldt Mills Tama

Bremer Dickinson Ida Mitchell Taylor

Buchanan Emmet Iowa Monona Union

Buena Vista Fayette Jackson Monroe Van Buren

Butler Floyd Jasper Montgomery Warren

Calhoun Franklin Jefferson OBrien WashingtonCass Fremont Jones Osceola Wayne

Cedar Greene Keokuk Page Winnebago

Cherokee Grundy Kossuth Palo Alto Winneshiek

Chickasaw Guthrie Lee Plymouth Worth


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Contents

Section 1- The Drivers LicenseWho Needs A License? ................................................................4Vision ............................................................................................4Knowledge Test ............................................................................5Driving Test ...................................................................................5Proof of Age and Identity ..............................................................5Social Security Number ................................................................6Certification of Iowa Residency and Residential Address ............6

Types of Drivers Licenses............................................................6 Graduated Drivers License ...................................................6 Class C - Operator (Noncommercial) ....................................7 Class D - Chauffeur (Noncommercial) ..................................7 Class M - Motorcycle .............................................................8 Motorcycle Instruction Permit - Restriction 1 .........................8 Operator Instruction Permit - Class C Restriction 2 ..............8 Commercial Instruction Permit - Restriction 3 .......................8 Chauffeurs Instruction Permit - Restriction 4 ........................8 Moped License - Restriction 5 ...............................................9 Minors Restricted License - Restriction 6 .............................9 Minors School License - Restriction 7 ..................................9 Commercial Drivers License (CDL) ......................................9 Restricted Commercial Drivers License ..............................9License Renewal ........................................................................10 Additional License Information ............................................10

Name Changes ...................................................................10 Driver Education ..................................................................10 Duplicates, Replacements and Validations .........................10 License Number ..................................................................10 License and Permit Possession ..........................................10

Military Service ....................................................................10Organ Donor/Medical Alert .................................................. 11Medical Advance Directive .................................................. 11Voter Registration ................................................................ 11

Drivers Privacy Protection Act ............................................ 11 Special Restrictions .............................................................11 Selective Service Registration............................................. 11Summary Chart of License Expiration Dates.............................. 11Summary Chart of License Types ..............................................12

Section 2- Traffic Signs and Rules of the RoadTraffic Signs ................................................................................13Warning Signs ............................................................................14Regulation Signs ........................................................................15Slow Moving Vehicle Sign ..........................................................15Guide Signs ................................................................................15Service Signs..............................................................................15Route Signs ................................................................................16Traffic Signals .............................................................................16Railroad Crossings .....................................................................16

Road Work Zones .......................................................................17Pavement Markings and Other Lane Controls ...........................17When to Yield the Right-of-Way .................................................19School Buses..............................................................................20Parking .......................................................................................20Approaching Stationary Emergency or Maintenance Vehicles ...21Cell Phones and Texting While Driving .......................................21

Section 3- Safe Driving TipsBasic Driving...............................................................................23Proper Turning Techniques .........................................................24Signal When You Slow Down .....................................................25Hand Signals ..............................................................................25Appropriate Speed......................................................................25Closed Cars on a Hot Day ..........................................................26Bad Weather Driving ..................................................................26Space to Cross or Enter .............................................................28Passing .......................................................................................28Defensive Driving .......................................................................29Avoiding/Minimizing Accidents ...................................................30Changing Lanes .........................................................................31Backing .......................................................................................31Night Driving ...............................................................................32Rural Road Driving .....................................................................32Communicating - Headlights, Horn and

Emergency Signals .................................................................33Blind Spots .................................................................................34Sharing the Road........................................................................35Interstate Driving ........................................................................37

Rural Four-Lane Road with Intersecting Road ...........................38Driving Safely in Traffic ...............................................................38Economizing ...............................................................................39Roundabouts ..............................................................................40Handling Emergencies ...............................................................42Before You Drive - Vehicle Maintenance and Equipment ...........43

Section 4 - Protecting Your Driving PrivilegesUnlawful Use of Your License .....................................................45Cancellation ................................................................................45Suspension .................................................................................45Mandatory Revocations ..............................................................45Barred (Habitual Offender) .........................................................46Moving Violations .......................................................................46

Reinstatement ............................................................................46OWI - Operating While Drugged or Intoxicated ..........................46Open Container Law...................................................................47Civil Penalty (Victim Reparation) ................................................47Accidents - Financial Responsibility and

Reporting Requirements .........................................................47How to Avoid Suspension Following an Accident .......................47Methods of Proving Financial Responsibility ..............................48Out-of-State Convictions ............................................................48Work Permits (Temporary Restricted Licenses) .........................49

Section 5- Be in Shape to DriveAlcohol and Drugs ......................................................................50Persons with Disabilities Parking Identification Permits .............51

Seat belts and Child Restraints ..................................................51Self-help Review Questions .......................................................52


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1. The Drivers LicenseWho Needs a License?Anyone who operates a motor vehicle or motorcycle ormoped on public streets and roads in Iowa is required tohave a license. You are considered an Iowa resident forpurposes of driver licensing if you have:

registered to vote in this state; enrolled your children in public school;

accepted a permanent job in the state; or lived in Iowa continuously for 30 days.

You do not need an Iowa drivers license if you: are driving a military motor vehicle while on duty with

the U.S. Armed Forces; are driving farm equipment between the home farm

and any nearby (not more than two miles) farmland orfarm operation; or

are a student or visitor and have a current license fromyour home state or country.

If you have any questions, contact the Motor VehicleInformation Center by calling 800-532-1121 (toll-free).

You may obtain a drivers license if you: are at least 16 years of age; (see Iowas graduated

licensing system, page 6) are able to submit proof of name and age; have successfully completed an approved driver

education course if you are under age 18; have parents/guardians consent if under age 18; pass required drivers license tests; turn in any other drivers license or identification card

you have; have not had your license suspended, revoked,

denied, canceled, disqualified or barred;

have not been found incapable of safely operating amotor vehicle due to a mental or physical disability;and

have no unpaid fines for moving traffic violations.

VisionVision is so important that Iowa requires that you pass

a vision screening before you get a drivers license orpermit, or when you renew your license. This screening isto make sure you have at least 20/40 vision in at least oneeye, with or without corrective lenses.Other important aspects of vision are:

Side vision- You need to see out the corner of youreye. This lets you spot vehicles and other potentialtrouble on either side of you while you look ahead.Because you cannot focus on things to the side, youalso must use your side mirrors and glance to the sideif necessary.

Judging distances and speeds- Even if you can seeclearly, you still may not be able to judge distancesor speeds very well. In fact, you are not alone, manypeople have problems judging distances and speeds.It takes a lot of practice to be able to judge both. Itis especially important to know how far you are fromother vehicles, and to be able to judge safe gaps whenmerging, and when passing on two-lane roads.

Night vision- Many people who can see clearly inthe daytime have trouble seeing at night. All people have

more trouble seeing at night than in the daytime, but somedrivers have problems with glare while driving at night,especially the glare of oncoming headlights. If you haveproblems seeing at night, do not drive more than is neces-sary; and when you do, be very careful.

Because it is so important to safe driving that you seewell, you should have your eyes checked every year ortwo by an eye specialist. You may never know you havepoor vision unless your eyes are tested.

If you need to wear glasses or contact lenses fordriving, remember to: Always wear them when you drive, even if you are

only going a short distance. If your drivers license

says you must wear corrective lenses and you dont,you could get a ticket if you are stopped by a law en-forcement officer.

Try to keep an extra pair of glasses in your vehicle.Then if your regular glasses get broken or lost, youcan drive safely. This also can be helpful if you do notwear glasses all the time and you forget to take themwith you when driving.

Dont wear dark glasses or tinted contact lenses atnight, even if it is to help with glare. The problem isthat they shut out too much light, light you need to seeclearly.

Vision ScreeningYou may decide to go directly to your doctor and haveyour doctor check your vision if you are applying for anoncommercial license. The information can be on a formfurnished by the department or it can be a letter from yourdoctor if the doctor has measured your vision within 30days of when you apply for a license.

HearingHearing can be helpful to safe driving. Do not drive with

headphones or earphones that cover or go in both ears.They make it too hard to hear emergency horns or sirens.The sound of horns, sirens or screeching tires can warn

you of danger. Hearing problems, like bad eyesight, cancome on so slowly that you do not notice it. Drivers whoknow they are deaf or have hearing problems can adjustand be safe drivers. They learn to rely more on their visionand stay alert. Studies have shown that the driving recordsof hearing impaired drivers are just as good as thosedrivers with good hearing. A hearing impair ment may beindicated on your drivers license; ask the examiner at thedrivers license station for details.

1. The Drivers License


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Vision Standards

Acuity

20/40 No restrictions unless you wear

glasses or contacts.

Less than 20/40 No driving when headlights are

but at least 20/70 required.

Less than 20/70 Not eligible for licensing.*

Field of Vision

140 or better No restrictions.

Less than 140 but at Left and right outside rearview

least 110 in both eyes mirrors will be required.

Less than 140 but at Left and right outside rearview

least 100 in one eye mirrors will be required.

Less than 100 Not eligible for licensing.*

*Not eligible for licensing means suspension of your drivingprivileges as specified in Section 321.210(1c) of the Iowa Code,

or denial of driving privileges as required by Iowa Code Section

321.177(7).

Knowledge TestThe operator knowledge test shows how well you

understand road signs, traffic laws, and safe-driving prac-tices. Everything you must know to pass the knowledgetest is in this guide. Testing is administered by automatedtesting equipment using a touch screen. (Audio assist isavailable.)

Driving TestThe driving test shows how well you can control your

vehicle. Unless you can already legally drive in Iowa, youwill need to have a licensed driver bring you and your testvehicle to the test site. That driver should wait for you incase you do not pass the test. He or she will not be able tobe in the vehicle when you are taking the driving test.

Before you start on the driving test, the examiner willinspect your vehicles safety equipment. Safety equip-ment includes, but is not limited to, seat belts, lights, turnsignals, horn, brake lights, tires and windshield wipers. If

the safety equipment does not work, you will not be ableto take the test unless the equipment is not needed; forexample, if it is a sunny day and your vehicles windshieldwipers do not work, you can use your vehicle for the test.Your vehicle should also have a current registration stickeron the license plate. Iowa registration laws require both afront and back plate on most vehicles. You should havethe registration receipt in the vehicle since the examinermay ask to see it. Evidence of liability insurance is alsorequired.

During the test, the examiner will sit in the front seatwith you. The examiner will give you directions and scoreyour driving ability. After the test, the examiner will explainthe results. If you did not pass the test, the examiner willexplain when and how you may take the test again.

Proof of Age and Identity

To establish identity and date of birth, a person must

submit at least one of the following documents. Thedepartment may require additional documentation if thedepartment believes that the documentation submitted isquestionable or if the department has reason to believethat the person is not who the person claims to be:

1. A valid, unexpired U.S. passport or U. S. passportcard.

2. Certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a stateof the United States. (State includes the Districtof Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam,American Samoa, or the Commonwealth of NorthernMariana Islands.) It must be a certified copy andhave the stamp or raised seal of the issuing author-ity. A hospital-issued certificate is not acceptable. A

certified birth certificate issued by Puerto Rico mustbe certified as being issued on or after July 1, 2010.

3. A Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by theU.S. Department of State (Form FS-240, DS-1350 orFS-545.

4. Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550, N-570 orN-578).

5. Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560, N-561 orN-645).

6. Unexpired Permanent Resident Card (form I-551).7. Unexpired Employment Authorization Document

(Form I-766).8. Record of Arrival and Departure (I-94) with attached

photo and stamped Temporary Proof of Lawful Per-manent Resident.

9. Record of Arrival and Departure (I-94) stampedRefugee, Parolee or Asylee.

10. Unexpired foreign passport accompanied by theapproved I-94 documenting most recent admittanceinto the United States.

11. Valid foreign passport stamped Processed forI-551.

12. Permit to Reenter the United States (I-327). 13. Refugee Travel Document (I-571).


Visit www.iowadot.gov/mvd/realid/success.html

to build a personal checklist of the documentsyou will need to satisfy Iowas identification

requirements.


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Social Security NumberYou must present the Social Security Administrations

account number card; or if a Social Security accountnumber card is not available, you may present any of thefollowing documents bearing the Social Security accountnumber:

1. A W-2 form.2. A Social Security Administration 1099 form.3. A non-Social Security Administration 1099 form.

4. A pay stub or statement with name and Social Secu-rity account number on it.A person who establishes identity by presenting an

unexpired foreign passport with a U.S. visa affixed andaccompanied by the approved I-94 form documentingthe most recent admittance into the United States mustdocument the persons Social Security account number, ordemonstrate nonwork authorized status.

If you need to correct or update information at theSocial Security Administration, do so several days beforeyou apply for a drivers license or ID card. For informationon how to do this, visit www.ssa.gov. Your SSN will not belisted on your drivers license or ID. The Iowa DOT will as-sign you a unique drivers license or ID number.

Certification of Iowa Residency

and Residential AddressTo establish Iowa residency and residential address,

you must present two documents that show your currentname and Iowa residential address. The address must bea physical address where you reside and not a post officebox. Printouts of services paid or transacted electronicallyare acceptable. Acceptable items are:

Iowa voter registration card. Valid Iowa vehicle registration certificate.

Valid insurance card or certificate of coverage (life,health, auto, homeowners or renters).

Second valid insurance card or certificate of coverage(different than first).

Utility hookup or bill (water, gas, electric, or garbageremoval).

Second utility hookup or bill (different than the first). Telephone hookup, service agreement or bill (landline

or mobile). Statement from a financial institution (bank, credit

union or other financial institution). Second statement from a financial institution (different

from the first).

Personal check or deposit slip issued by a financialinstitution (you may mark this VOID. Credit, debit or charge card statement. Iowa residential mortgage, lease or rental agreement

(lease and rental agreements must include the land-lords name and contact information).

Application for homestead tax credit for Iowa residen-tial property.

Application for military tax credit for Iowa residentialproperty.

Valid real estate tax statement or receipt for Iowa resi-dential property.

Pay stub or statement from your employer. Your current school enrollment papers for an Iowa

public or private school. Current school enrollment papers for a dependent

child in an Iowa public or private school. A federal, State of Iowa or local government docu-

ment (such as a receipt, license, permit, assessment,professional or trade license, or other document).

Second federal, State of Iowa or local governmentdocument (different than the first).

An envelope, box, postcard or magazine that includesa postmark or stamped date.

Iowa drivers license or ID card that has not beenexpired for more than one year.If you are under 18 and not married, your parent,

guardian or custodian will document your Iowa residencyand residential address by signing a Parents WrittenConsent form. The form is available at any drivers licenseissuance site or download it at https://forms.iowadot.gov/FormsMgt/External/430018.pdf. Parents Written Consent form.

(If you are under 18 and married, also bring a certifiedcopy of your marriage certificate. Your marriage certificatelets you apply for the drivers license or ID without a Par-ents Written Consent form.)

Types of Drivers LicensesGraduated Drivers License

Iowa has a graduated drivers license (GDL) system fordrivers under the age of 18. GDL includes three steps thatallow for increased driving privilege as the driver accumu-lates more skill and demonstrates responsible driving practices. The three steps are: the instruction permit; intermedi

ate license; and the full license. Driver education is part ofthe GDL system, as well as a remedial driver improvementprogram if traffic violations occur or if the driver contributesto or is the cause of a crash or accident.

Instruction Permit Available at age 14 Must be held for a minimum of 12 months Requires written approval of parent/guardian Requires vision screening and knowledge test All driving must be supervised. May drive only with

parent/guardian, family member over 21, driver educa-tion teacher, or driver over 25 with written permissionof parent/guardian

Number of passengers limited to the number of seatbelts in the vehicle Must complete approved driver education course Must log 20 hours of supervised driving; minimum of

two hours must be between sunset and sunrise Must drive accident- and violation-free for six con-

secutive months immediately prior to applying for anintermediate license



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Driver Education Available at age 14 Must have instruction permit Thirty hours of classroom to include four hours sub-

stance abuse education, minimum of 20 minutes onrailroad crossing safety, information on organ donation,and information on bicycle and motor cycle awareness

Six hours laboratory; minimum three hours must bebehind the wheel

No parental waiver of any behind-the-wheel drive time

Intermediate License Available at age 16 Must meet all conditions of instruction permit Written approval of parent/guardian Must be held for a minimum of 12 months May drive without supervision from 5 a.m. to 12:30

a.m.; driving is permitted between 12:30 a.m. and 5a.m. only with a parent/guardian, family member over21, or designated adult over 25; with a waiver, maydrive to and from work or school-related extracurricularactivities

Must log 10 hours of supervised driving; minimum of

two hours must be between sunset and sunrise For the first six months, passengers are limited to only

one unrelated minor passenger unless this restrictionis waived by the parent/guardian at the time the inter-mediate license is issued. Unrelated minor passengermeans a passenger who is under 18 years of age andwho is not a sibling or stepsibling of the driver, or achild who resides in the same household as the driver.

Passengers limited to the number of seat belts in thevehicle

Must drive accident- and violation-free for 12 consecu-tive months immediately prior to applying for a fulllicense

Intermediate license will have the words intermediatelicense

Remedial Driver Improvement Applies to all drivers under age 18 Driver will be referred if involved in one moving viola-

tion or involvement in an accident to which the drivercontributed

DOT may impose additional driving restrictions orimpose a suspension

Instruction permit holders must be accident- andviolation-free for six consecutive months immediatelypreceding upgrade to Intermediate license.

Intermediate license holders must be accident- andviolation-free for 12 consecutive months immediatelyprior to applying for a full license.

Must begin six-month or 12-month accident- andviolation-free driving period again to qualify for nextlicensing level

Full License Available at age 17 Must meet all conditions of intermediate license

Written approval of parent/guardian Full driving privileges with no restrictions For drivers under age 18 or age 21, the license shall

have the words under eighteen or under 21

Class C - Operator (Noncommercial)This is the license most Iowans have. With this license,

you may drive cars, pickups and trucks whose gross ve-hicle weight is 16,000 pounds or less. To get an operatorslicense, you will have to take the vision screening. You willalso have to take the knowledge test if you have an invalidor expired (over one year) out-of-state license, or if youhave not had a drivers license before. If you have a validout-of-state license that allows you to drive by yourself, thedriving test may be waived.

The DOT may also issue this license or a Class M(Motorcycle) license to you if you are 16 or 17 years old,and, if before you became an Iowa resident, you had avalid drivers license for at least one year as a resident ofanother state. To be eligible you must: live with a parent or guardian; have no moving violations on your driving record; pass the vision screening; and

pass the required written and driving tests.If you meet all of these requirements, you do not have

to take a driver education course to get your license. Thelicense may be restricted as an intermediate license underIowas Graduated Driver Licensing law.

Your license will be issued with a randomly assignedexpiration date. Expiration dates will be limited accordingto age as shown in the chart below..

Certain medical conditions and disabilities may restrictlicense issuance to only a two-year period, regardless ofyour age.

Licenses cost $4 per year. The license expires on yourbirthday, but remains valid for another 60 days. For more

information, see the summary chart of license expirationdates on page 12.

Class D - Chauffeur (Noncommercial)This license covers operation of light straight trucks

and small passenger-for-hire vehicles. This also includespersons exempted from commercial licensing, such as afarmer who is driving a farm truck-tractor semitrailer com-bination, a paid firefighter who is driving vehicles in excessof 16,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, and a taxidriver.

The Class D license has one of three endorsementsallowing a driver to operate:

Endorsement 1: tractor-trailer combinations if aCDL farm exemption applies.

Endorsement 2: single-unit vehicles with a grossvehicle weight rating of 16,001 pounds or more upthrough a 26,000-pound gross vehicle weight rating

Endorsement 3: passenger vehicles which carryless than 16 passengers, such as taxis.

To get a chauffeurs license you must be at least 18years old. You must pass the vision screening and musthave passed the general knowledge test. You will also berequired to turn in any out-of-state licenses you have.



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Under the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986,it is a violation of federal law for the driver of a commercialmotor vehicle to have more than one license. A Class Dlicense is not valid for operating commercial motor vehicles.If you need a commercial license, you will need to study thecommercial drivers manual available at your local driverslicense station.

You will be required to take the driving test in the largestclass of vehicle you want to drive. This also allows you tooperate smaller class vehicles.

If you currently have an out-of-state license valid for thesame driving privilege you require in Iowa, the knowledgeand driving tests may be waived.

Your chauffeurs license will be issued will be issued witha randomly assigned expiration date. Expiration dates willbe limited according to age as shown in the chart below.

Certain medical conditions and disabilities may restrictlicense issuance to only a two-year period, regardless ofyour age.

Licenses cost $8 per year. The license expires on yourbirthday, but remains valid for another 60 days. For moreinformation, see the summary chart of license expirationdates on page 11.

Class M - MotorcycleMotorcycle riders must have a license valid for mo-

torcycle before being able to ride by them selves. If ridingwith a qualified operator, a motorcycle instruction permitis necessary. (See motorcycle instruction permit.) To getmotorcycle added to your current license, you must pass awritten test and a motorcycle skills test.

If you wish to have a Class M license without anotherlicense class, you will be required to pass written tests forboth a Class C noncommercial license and motorcycles.The driving test will be a motorcycle skill test and an on-the-road test with the motorcycle. If an on-the-road test is

required with the motorcycle, the examiner will ride in oron another vehicle and give you directions by prearrangedsignals.

If you are under age 18, in addition to driver educa-tion, you must have passed an approved motorcyclerider education course. (The skills test may be waived.)A motorcycle instruction permit may be necessary for thecourse if street riding is part of the motorcycle rider educa-tion course.

Adding the motorcycle class to an existing class costs$2 for each year the license is valid.

There is a separate manual for motorcycles; motorcyclestudy manuals are available at any drivers license station.

Motorcycle Instruction Permit - Restriction 1For operating a motorcycle with a motorcycle permit,

the person instructing you must have a license valid formotorcycles. The accompanying person must stay withinsight and hearing distance and be on or in a different mo-tor vehicle. Only one learner may be supervised by anyone licensed driver.

To add the motorcycle instruction permit to an existingclass, the cost is $2 for each year the license is valid.

A motorcycle instruction permit will be issued for onefour-year term with no renewal permitted.

Operator Instruction Permit - Class CRestriction 2

This gives you the chance to learn how to drive with thehelp of an experienced driver. To get an instruction per-mit you must be at least 14 years old and pass the visionscreening and knowledge test. You must present a pa-

rental consent form available at any Iowa drivers licensestation and prove your age and identity (page 5).If you are 14 through 17 years old and have a valid

permit, you can drive with the following people: a driver education instructor; a prospective driver education instructor; a licensed parent or guardian; a member of your immediate family who is licensed

and at least 21 years old; or another licensed adult who is at least 25 years old and

has your parents/guardians written permission to ac-company you while you drive.

If you are at least 18 years old and have a valid permit,you can drive with: a driver education instructor a prospective driver education instructor a licensed member of your immediate family who is at

least 21 years old another licensed adult who is at least 25 years old

An instruction permit is issued for four years, expiringon your birthday, with a 60-day grace period after yourbirthday. The cost is $6.

Commercial Instruction Permit - Restriction 3This permit allows a person to operate a commercial

motor vehicle while learning to operate it as long as thereis a person with a CDL valid for that type of vehicle oc-cupying the seat beside the driver. To get this permit youmust pass the vision screening and CDL general knowl-edge test. This restriction is added to your existing license.It is not possible to obtain a commercial instruction permitonly. If you do not have a license when you apply for thecommercial permit, you will be required to obtain at leastthe noncommercial Class C license (operators license)and the commercial instruction permit will be added to thelicense. The commercial instruction permit is issued forsix months and can be renewed only once in a two-yearperiod. (When you are ready to apply for your commerciallicense, you will be required to pass any other applicableCDL knowledge tests and the skills test.) The permit costs

$12. A commercial instruction permit may not be used tooperate a vehicle transporting hazardous materials in anamount requiring placarding.

Chauffeurs Instruction Permit - Restriction 4This allows you to learn to drive a vehicle for which you

need a Class D license, but not commercial motor vehiclesthat require a CDL. When driving, you must have someonewho has a Class D or commercial license valid for thattype of vehicle in the seat next to you. This restriction isadded to your existing license.



11/569

To get your chauffeurs permit, you must be at least18 years old and pass the vision screening and generalknowledge test.

Moped License - Restriction 5If you are 18 years old or older and have never had a

license, you will need to pass the vision screening and theknowledge test. You may also have to take a skills test toshow you can properly operate a moped. Additional licens-ing is not required if you possess a valid drivers li cense.See page 37 for additional information.

To get a moped license you must be at least 14 yearsold and pass the vision screening and knowledge test andpresent a parental consent form, along with proof of ageand identity (see page 5). (If you are under 16 years old,you must pass an approved moped education course toget a moped license.)

If you are 16 years old or older and have never had anIowa drivers license, you must pass the vision and knowl-edge test. (If you are under 18 years old, you will alsoneed to present a parental consent form, along with proofof age and identity. See page 5.)

Minors Restricted License - Restriction 6A minor restricted license (valid only for travel to

and from work, or to transport dependents to and fromtemporary care facilities if necessary to hold a job) maybe issued to a person age 16-18 who has completed anIowa-approved driver education course andto whom anyof the following apply: is not in attendance at school; has not completed the requirements for graduation in

an accredited school; or has not obtained a high school equivalency diploma.

The minors restricted license is not valid for drivingduring work or as an instruction permit.

To get a minors restricted license, your school districtsuperintendent or principal and your employer mustcomplete a form available from any drivers license station.If you quit or lose your job for any reason, your employeris required to notify the DOT and your license will becanceled.

You must also pass the vision screening and drivingtest. You may not have to take the knowledge test if youhave a permit that is valid or has not been expired formore than 60 days.

Minor School License - Restriction 7This license allows you to drive at any time with adult

supervision. It also allows you to drive without adult super-vision between the hours of 5 a.m. and10 p.m. for the following: Drive from your home to your school(s) of enroll-

ment or school sponsored activities using the mostdirect and accessible route. Activities must be at theschool(s) you are enrolled in.

Drive to a school that is not the students school ofenrollment for the purpose of participating in extracur-ricular activities conducted under a sharing agreementwith the students school of enrollment.

Drive to and from your home to the closest school busstop.

Stop for fuel while on route or at the closest filling sta-tion off route.

To get a school license you must have successfullycompleted an Iowa-approved driver education course (un-less you show a hardship exists) and live 1 mile or morefrom school. One of your parents must sign a consentform, and your school superintendent or chairperson of theschool board must furnish a statement of need on a form

provided by the DOT. This form is available from any Iowadrivers license issuance site.

You must pass a vision screening, but the driving testmay be waived. You will also need to take the knowledgetest unless your instruction permit is still valid.

The license will be issued for a maximum of two yearsand expires on your birthday. You do not need an instruc-tion permit when you have a school license because theschool license will be valid as an instruction permit whennot driving to and from school.

You must hold an instruction permit for six months andbe conviction and accident-free during that period beforethe school license is issued.

When operating without supervision on the minorschool license, you must limit the number of unrelatedminor passengers in the vehicle to one. Unrelated minorpassenger means a passenger who is under 18 years ofage and who is not a sibling, stepsibling, or a child whoresides in your household.

Commercial Drivers License (CDL)Class A For a combination vehicle with a gross com-

bination weight rating of 26,001 or more pounds where thegross vehicle weight rating of the towed unit is 10,001 ormore pounds.

Class B For a single-unit vehicle with a gross vehicleweight rating of 26,001 or more pounds. A unit can be

towed with this class of license if the gross vehicle weightrating of the towed unit is less than 10,001 pounds.

Class C For a single unit vehicle with a gross vehicleweight rating of 26,000 pounds or less, is designed tocarry 16 or more persons--including the driver, or is carry-ing hazardous material that requires placarding.

Commercial licenses cost $8 per year. The removal ofan air brake restriction or addition of endorsements will beadded to this base fee.

Commercial drivers license study manuals are avail-able at the local drivers license stations. Explanations ofspecial endorsements or restrictions are included in thismanual.

Restricted Commercial Drivers LicenseThe restricted CDL allows suppliers or applicators of

agricultural chemicals, fertilizer, seed or animal feed todrive Class B or Class C commercial vehicles. Class B orC vehicles are generally single vehicles that normally donot pull a trailer or semitrailer. The only hazardous materi-als a holder of a restricted CDL can carry are liquid fertil-izer such as anhydrous ammonia (3,000 gallons or less)and solid fertilizer such as ammonium nitrate (provided it isnot mixed with any organic substance).



12/5610

The restricted CDL is only valid if the distance betweenthe business and the farm being served is 150 miles orless. To obtain the restricted CDL, a person must have agood driving record for two years before applying for thelicense. A good driving record is defined as:

holding no more than one license; no loss of license (suspension, revocation, etc.) for

any reason; no convictions for driving under the influence of alco-

hol or drugs (no test refusals), leaving the scene of anaccident, any felony involving a motor vehicle, drivingwhile privileges are withdrawn, speeding 15 mph ormore over the posted speed limit, reckless driving,improper or erratic lane changes, following too closely,driving a CMV without a CDL or proper endorsements,driving a CMV without a CDL inpossession; and

no convictions for accident-connected traffic law viola-tions, and no record of accidents in which the applicantwas determined to be at fault.

The initial fee for a restricted CDL is $16 for two yearsor $8 per year for five to eight years. There is a $10 fee toupdate the license for a different season than the one for

which it was issued. The seasonal periods during which arestricted CDL may be used are March 15 through June30, and Oct. 4 through Dec. 14.

License RenewalYour license is valid for 60 days after your birthday.A vision screening is required for a license renewal. If

your license has been expired for more than one year and60 days, you will have to pass the vision screening, andthe knowledge and driving tests.

You can apply for your license renewal from 30 daysto one year before the expiration on your license. If youwant to renew your license more than 30 days before theexpiration date, you may have to explain to the licensingpersonnel why you are applying for the early renewal.

Online RenewalYou may also renew your drivers license online if you

meet these qualifications: If you have a valid Iowa drivers license. You are at least 18 years old, but younger than 70

years old. Your license has not been expired for more than a

year.

It is less than 180 days to the renewal date on yourcurrent license. You are a U.S. citizen. You do not have any medical or vision conditions that

would impact your ability to drive. You do not need to change the address or name

printed on your license. If your current drivers license was not renewed online.

To renew your license online visit: myMVD at:https://mymvd.iowadot.gov. MyMVD is the Iowa DOTsonline drivers license and record services website and theonly place you can renew online.

Additional License InformationChange of Address

If your address changes, you must report the addresschange to the DOT within 30 days. Any drivers license sta

tion can make an address change on your license for $10.Your license will always show your residence address, butyour mailing address will also be requested.

Name ChangesIndividuals wishing to change their name must pay

a $10 fee and provide acceptable proof for any namechanges. Acceptable items are: 1. Court-ordered name change containing full name,

date of birth and court seal. 2. Divorce decree. 3. Marriage certificate.

Driver EducationTo get your license before you are 18 years old, you

must pass an Iowa approved driver education course. Takeyour certificate of completion to the driver license issuancesite.

If you have successfully completed an out-of-statedriver education course, you should take your certificate ortranscript to the driver education instructor at your school.The instructor will verify that the course meets Iowas stan-dards and may issue an Iowa Completion Certificate.See page 7 for information on licensing for persons underage 18 who have had a license in another state.

Duplicates, Replacements, and ValidationsIf your license or permit is lost or destroyed, you may

get a duplicate from any drivers license issuance site. Youmust prove your age and identity (see page 5) and pay a$10 fee.

License NumberThe DOT will assign a number to be used as your driv-

ers license number. However, you must give your SocialSecurity number on your drivers license application.

License and Permit PossessionYou should have your license or permit with you at all

times while driving. If you are arrested for not having yournoncommercial drivers license with you, you will not bepenalized if you can produce your license or permit in courand show that it was valid at the time. You are required tohave your commercial drivers license in your immediatepossession when operating a commercial motor vehicle.

Military ServiceIf your Iowa license expires while you are on active

duty with the Armed Forces, it can be extended until six



13/56111. The Drivers License

months after you leave active duty. A five-year extensionmay apply to your spouse and children if they are livingwith you outside of Iowa. You may obtain military serviceextensions by writing the Office of Driver Services, P.O.Box 9204, Des Moines, IA 50306-9204. You can alsorequest the department restore your license to its recordsby showing you are in the military and were at the time thelicense expired.

Organ Donor/Medical AlertAnyone 18 years of age or older may become an organ

donor. A person under 18 years of age may become adonor with parental consent.

When you apply or reapply for any type of license, theclerk will ask you if you would like to become an organ do-nor. This information will print on the front of your license tothe right of your address. You can obtain a uniform donorcard at the drivers license station. For further information,consult your physician.

A medical alert designation may be placed on the frontof your license to indicate a medical condition that mayneed special attention.

Medical Advance DirectiveThere is a growing concern about how medical care

decisions will be made when people are unable to makedecisions for themselves. An increasing number of peopleare stating their health care choices in writing while theyare still able to make these decisions. These legal docu-ments are called advance directives, more commonlyknown as a living will and durable power of attor ney forhealth care. These are documents stating your health carechoices or naming someone to make the choices for you ifyou become unable to do so. When you apply or reapplyfor any type of license, the clerk will ask you if you wouldlike to have medical advance directives indicated on the

face of your license. Ask your physician for more informa-tion on advance directives.

Veteran designationHonorably discharged veterans may request the Vet-

eran designation be placed on their drivers license ornonoperator identification card. The veteran must presenta copy of their DD 214 or applicable discharge documentto the county or state Veterans Affairs Office to have theireligibility certified. That office and the veteran will com-plete an Iowa DOT application form. Note: Veterans mayrequest the veteran designation anytime they seek a newcard, not just at the time of renewal. The cost for a dupli-

cate drivers license or ID card is $10.

Voter RegistrationIf you are not registered to vote, you may apply to

register electronically when you apply for your license.Voter registration application cards are also available. Theforms can be filled out and mailed by the applicant, or DOTemployees will mail the cards to the proper office after theyhave been completed. You may also update your voterregistration.

Drivers Privacy Protection ActCertain personal information about you will not be re-

leased except to authorized recipients under the provisionsof the federal Drivers Privacy Protection Act and statestatutes. Personal information includes your photograph,Social Security number, drivers license number, name,address, telephone number, and medical or disabilityinformation.

Special RestrictionsFor safety reasons it is sometimes necessary to limitdriving privileges. You may be limited to certain types ofvehicles, special mechanical controls, or certain other op-erating restrictions. Your license is good only under thoseconditions and can be suspended if you violate the restric-tions.

Selective Service RegistrationIf you are a male age 18 through 25, your application

for a drivers license or nonoperator identification card willserve as consent to be registered with the United StatesSelective Service System. If you refuse to give consent,

your license or ID can still be issued. However, DOT willprovide consent or refusal information to Selective Service

Summary Chart of License

Expiration DatesIowa drivers licenses will be issued with a randomly

assigned expiration date between five and eight years, asshown in the chart below. Expiration dates will be limitedaccording to age as shown in the chart below.

Iowa nonoperators ID cards will be issued with anexpiration date of eight years.

Licenses issued to persons under the age of 18

or persons who are temporary foreign nationals arenot eligible for licenses with an expiration date be-tween five and eight years. These individuals will beissued drivers licenses with shorter renewal periodsset by Iowa law.

Age Expiration date

Younger than 17 years and11 months

Two years

Older than 17 years and 11months through 66 years

Five to eight years(selected randomly)

67 yearsFive to seven years

(selected randomly)68 years

Five to six years(selected randomly)

69 years Five years

70 years Four years

71 years Three years

72 years Two years

73 years Two years

74 years and older Two years


14/5612 1. The Drivers License

License classMinimum

ageExpiration date Tests required Cost

A Commercial 18Two years/Five to eight years

See CDL Manual $8 per year*

B Commercial 18Two years/Five to eight years


C Commercial 18Two years/Five to eight years


C Noncommercial - operator 16Two years/Five to eight years

Knowledge, vision,driving

$4 per year

D Noncommercial - chauffeur 18Two years/Five to eight years

See CDL Manual $8 per year

LMotorcycle license - added to existinglicense

16Two years/Five to eight years

Knowledge, vision,driving See IowaMotorcycle Operator

Manual

$2 per year

Restriction 1 (motorcycle instruction permit)Must be added to an existing license

14Same as currentlicense

Knowledge, vision $2 per year

CRestriction 1 (motorcycle permit only -new issuance)

14 Four years Knowledge, vision $14

C Restriction 2 (instruction permit) 14 Four years Knowledge, vision $6

Restriction 3 (commercial instruction permit)Must be added to an existing license

18 Six months Knowledge, vision $12

C Restriction 4 (chauffeurs instructionpermit)

18 Four years Knowledge, vision $12

CRestriction 5 (motorized bicycle license -moped)

14 Two years Knowledge, vision $8

C Restriction 6 (minors restricted license) 16 Two yearsKnowledge, vision,driving

$8

C Restriction 7 (minors school license) 14 Two yearsKnowledge, vision,driving

$8

Upgrade from operator license to chauffer orcommercial license

18Prorateduplicate license

Knowledge, vision,driving

$4 per year

The following endorsements are used exclusively in conjunction with a commercial drivers license.

Double/Triple trailers $5Passenger $10

Tank vehicles $5

Hazardous materials* $5*

School bus $10

Remove air brake restriction $10

*The hazardous material endorsement fee must be paid every time a CDL is renewed. The hazardous materialknowledge examination is also required.

Summary Chart of License TypesPersons younger than 17 years and 11 months and age 72 yeras or older will be issued two-year licenses. Unlessotherwise indicated, all others will be issued randomly with an expiration between five and eight years. For moreinformation, see chart on page 11.


15/5613

2. Traffic Signs andRules of the Road

There are traffic rules that say where, when and how fastyou can drive. These rules help to keep traffic moving safely.Rules of the road include traffic controls, lane controls, right-of-way laws, and parking rules.

Traffic signs tell you about traffic rules, hazards, whereyou are, how to get where you are going, and where servicesare located. The shape and color of these signs give cluesto the type of information they provide.

Traffic controls include traffic signals, traffic signs andpavement markings. Traffic control also can be providedby law enforcement, highway personnel or school crossingguards. You must obey directions from these persons.

Traffic SignsStandard Colors

Red

Stop, yield or do what is shown on the sign.

GreenDirection. These signs indicate where a place is,or how far a place is from where you are.

BlueServices for travelers. These signs direct you toplaces such as rest areas, tourist sites, hospitals,hotels, gas stations, eating places, campgroundsor picnic areas.

YellowGeneral warning.

Fluorescent Yellow-GreenPedestrian, bicycle and school warning signs.The new color for these signs is much easier tosee in low light and foggy/rainy weather.

WhiteThese signs include information regardingenforceable laws and ordinances.

OrangeRoad work, temporary traffic control, and

maintenance warnings. Be sure to watch forworkers on the road.

BrownRecreation and cultural points of interest. Thesesigns point out historical sites, parks or recre-ational areas.

Standard ShapesOctagon - StopCome to a full stop at an intersectioncontrolled by this sign. Stop at themarked stop line or before enteringthe crosswalk or before your vehicleenters the intersection. Let othevehicles or pedestrians pass if theyare in your path.

Equilateral triangleYield the right of way. Slow downand let vehicles crossing your pathgo by. If necessary, stop beforegoing ahead. If pedestrians are inor about to enter the crosswalkstop until they have crossed theroadway, then proceed.

PennantThis sign will be on the left-handside of the road or high way. It warns

you of a no passing zone.

DiamondWarning. These signs alert you tospecial road hazards. Words orpictures on the sign will show youwhy you need to slow down or useextra caution.

RectangleRegulatory or guide. Vertical

signs indicate what you should orshould not do. Horizontal signsgive directions or informationabout services drivers may want.

PentagonSchool crossing. Signs mark schooareas and school crossings. Thecolor of this sign may also be yellow

CrossbuckRailroad crossing signs are placed

at each crossing. A number signunder the crossbucks shows howmany sets of train tracks you muscross.

CircleRailroad crossing ahead. Thesesigns give you early warning ofrailroad crossings.

2. Traffic Signs and Rules of the Road


16/5614

Warning SignsThese signs are yellow with black lettering or symbols and most are diamond-shaped. These signs warn you to slow

down and be prepared to stop if necessary; a special situation or hazard is ahead. Some common warning signs are shownbelow.

Intersection/Crossroad Merge Left Gradual Right CurveThere is another road Two lanes of traffic Road ahead curves

ahead that crosses the will soon become one gradually to the right. road you are on. Watch lane of traffic. Right- Be prepared for the carefully for cross lane traffic must yield change in direction.

traffic in your path. when merging.

Signal Ahead Farm Machinery Slippery When WetThese signs are used Farm equipment may be Road ahead becomes

on roads with higher crossing the road. Be slippery in wet weather. speeds. Be ready for ready to slow down for Slow down under these an intersection and a slow-moving equipment. conditions.

stop light.

Merging Traffic Pedestrian Crossing Chevron SignIf you are on the main Watch out for people Used in addition to the

road and see this sign, who might walk or run curve signs when there is be prepared for other in front of your vehicle. a need to draw added vehicles blending into attention to a change in

your lane. the roads direction.

Two-Way Traffic Deer Crossing Ramp SpeedKeep to the right There may be deer trying The recommended speed

because you are leaving to cross the roadway in on an exit ramp. a one-way road and the area. Slow down and entering a two-way road. watch carefully.

Divided Highway Begins Hill Advance School CrossingYou are getting close to This sign is a warning to You are nearing a school

the place where two-way all vehicles that the road area with a crossing. traffic will be divided ahead goes down a hill. Watch for children and the by a center strip. You should check your marked school crossing. brakes before going The color of this sign may

down the hill. be yellow.

Divided Highway Ends T-Intersection Ahead

Two-way traffic will no The road you are on doeslonger be divided by a not go straight ahead.center strip. Watch out Prepare to turn right orfor oncoming vehicles. left.

Horse-drawn Vehicle School Bus Stop Ahead School Crossing Be alert for slow-moving, Watch for children. Watch for children. horse-drawn vehicles Be prepared to stop. You Reduce speed. Obey on the roadway. Reduce are nearing an area where crossing guard signals your speed and pass slowly. a stopped school bus will Look out for children pick up or discharge playing. The color of this passengers. sign may also be yellow.



17/5615

Regulation SignsThese signs give you information about rules for traffic

direction, lane use, turning, speed, parking and other specialsituations.

Some regulation signs have a red circle with a red slashover a symbol. Theseindicate you cannotdo something; for ex-ample, no left turn, no

right turn, or no U-turn.

Speed Limit SignsThese signs indicate the maximum or

minimum safe speed that is allowed. Themaximum limits are for ideal conditions andyou must reduce your speed when conditionsrequire it, such as when the roadway is slip-pery (during rain) or it is difficult to see clearlydown the road (during fog). Some high speed

roads have minimum speed limits. If this minimum speed istoo fast for you, then you should use another route.

Lane Control SignsThese signsm a r k w h e r eyou can go andwhere you canturn, and oftenuse an arrow symbol. The signs are along the road or hangingover the road. Sometimes arrows may be painted on the road.

Passing SignsThese signs mark where it may be safe to pass another

vehicle and where you cannot.Passing areas are based on how

far you can see ahead. Theyconsider unseen hazards such asintersections, driveways and other

places a vehicle may enter the roadway. The signs indicatewhere you may pass, or the beginning and ending of apassing zone, or where you may not pass. Where passingis allowed, you may do so only if it is safe.

Stop SignA stop sign is red, with white letters, and

has eight sides. It means you must come to afull stop. You must wait until crossing vehiclesand pedestrians have cleared. You must stop

at the stop line if one is present. If necessary,you may then pull forward to the stop sign orthe edge of the intersection and then proceed when it issafe to do so.

Yield SignA yield sign is shaped like a downward

pointing triangle. It is red and white with redletters. It means you must slow down and yieldthe right of way to traffic in the intersection youare crossing or roadway you are entering.

Divided HighwayThe road ahead is divided. This sign

directs traffic to the right of an island orbarrier.

Wrong Way

You made a wrong turn and haveentered a lane of oncoming traffic. Getout the safest and quickest way possible.

One WayTraffic moves only in the direction

of the arrow.

Do Not Enter SignA square sign with a white horizontal

line inside a red circle means you cannotenter. You will see this sign at roadwayopenings you are not to enter and when

traffic is one way against you. You willsee them at exit ramps, in crossoverson divided roadways, and at numerouslocations on one-way roads.

Slow-Moving

Vehicle SignA reflective orange triangle on the rear

of a vehicle means it is traveling 35 mph orless. You may see this sign on road workequipment, farm vehicles, or horse-drawnwagons or carriages. It shows up as a solid

orange triangle by day and a hollow redtriangle at night.

Guide SignsThese signs are square

or rectangular shaped, andare green or brown withwhite lettering. They showdirections and distance tovarious locations, or areassuch as cities, airports, statelines; or to special areas such asnational parks, historical areas or museums.

Service SignsThese signs are square or rectangular

shaped, and are blue with white let ters orsymbols. They show the location of variousservices; such as rest areas, gas stations,campgrounds or hospitals.

30



18/5616

Route SignsThe shape of

route signs indicatethe type of road-way, interstate, U.S.,state, or county.

When planning a trip, use a highway map to determine yourroute. During the trip, follow the route signs. This will helpyou stay on your route.

Traffic SignalsRedCome to a complete stop at thestop line or before entering theintersection.

YellowDo not enter the intersec tionif you can stop safely. If youcannot stop safely, proceedthrough the intersection

with caution. A yellow lightwarns pedestrians there isnot enough time to cross thestreet. Anyone crossing thestreet on a yellow light shallyield the right-of-way to allvehicles.

GreenGo, but only when the in-tersection is clear.You mustyield to vehicles and pedestri-ans in the intersection. When

the light changes, traffic may be caught in the intersection.You must give them the right of way while they clear theintersection.

Yellow ArrowDo not enter the intersection if you can stop safely. If youcannot stop safely, proceed only in the direction of thearrow.

Green ArrowDrive only in the direction of the arrow. Yield the right of wayto other vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection.

Flashing RedTreat it the same as a stop sign.

Flashing YellowProceed with caution. Yield to vehicles andpedestrians, and proceed when it is safe.

Left-Turn Signal Head

The new left-turn signal headhas four signals.

Steady Red ArrowDrivers turning left must stopand wait.

Steady Yellow ArrowThe left-turn signal is aboutto turn red. Do not enter theintersection if you can stopsafely. Complete your left turnif you are already within theintersection.

Flashing Yellow ArrowYield to oncoming traffic andpedestrians; then turn left

proceeding with caution. Oncoming traffic has a greenlight.

Steady Green ArrowDrivers can proceed with the left turn. Oncoming trafficmust stop. Do not go straight.

Railroad Crossings Motorists must use extra caution at railroad cross

ings. Trains cannot stop quickly. Never try to beat a train across the tracks. Even if i

is a tie, you will be the loser. It is not wise to shift gears when crossing railroad

tracks; you might stall. Never stop your vehicle on the railroad tracks.

Advance warning signs and pavement markingsindicate railroad tracks cross the road ahead. Be prepared tostop before you get to the tracks if a train is approaching thecrossing. Pavement markings are a large X with the lettersRR on the road. These marks are not used at all crossings

Crossbuck signshave been put at many public railroadcrossings. This sign means look both ways, listen for andyield to trains. A number sign under the crossbuck indicatesthere is more than one set of tracks following the sign.

Railroad/highway/side road intersection



19/5617

Flashing light signalsmay be used withcrossbucks. Stop when the lights are flash-ing. Do not cross until you can do it safely.If there is more than one track, be carefulto watch for trains from either the same oropposite direction.

Gates are used with flashing lights atsome crossings. Stop when the lights startto flash before the gate goes down. Remain

stopped until the gates go up and the lightsstop flashing. Never drive around the gates.It is dangerous and against the law.

Railroad gates and warning lights areto alert you that a train is in the area. Youmay collide with a train if you go onto thetracks.

It is against the law to pass any vehiclewithin 100 feet of a railroad crossing.

Required StopsAll school buses and vehicles carrying

passengers for hire, and all vehicles required

to be placarded for hazardous materials,must stop within 15 to 50 feet of railroadtracks before crossing. If a police officer orhighway traffic signal directs highway traffic toproceed, you do nothave to stop. Youalso do not have tostop if the crossingis marked with anEXEMPT sign.

Road Work Zones

These traffic control devices andsigns are used to mark construction,maintenance, survey and utility workzones. These help direct drivers andpedestrians safely through the workarea while keeping it safe for workerson the highway. Stay alert and drivecautiously as fines may double inwork area zones.

The most commonly used traffic control devices are signs,barricades, vertical panels, drums, cones, tubular markers,flashing arrow panels and flaggers. Most signs in work areasare diamond-shaped, although a few signs are rectangular.Orange is the basic color of these signs and warning devices.

These signs and traffic control devices are reflectorized toattract your attention at night.

Slanting stripes on a panel or barricade tell you on whichside to pass. Stripes sloping down to the right mean passon the right. Stripes sloping down to the left mean pass onthe left.

You may encounter road work zones throughout theyear which can be a danger to motorists and road workersalike due to careless or inattentive drivers. In work zones,remember these tips:

Adjust your speed to the traffic conditions. Obey all instructions provided by signs, traffic signals

and flaggers. Dont follow other vehicles too closely. Always Expect the unexpected in The Work Zone.

Flashing Arrow PanelsLarge flashing arrow panels may

be used in work areas to direct driv-ers into certain traffic lanes. These

panels also alert you that part of theroadway is closed to traffic.

FlaggersPeople with stop/slow

paddles help control trafficin work zones. Fol low theirinstructions. They should bewearing lime green or orangevests, shirts or jackets. Theywill normally use stop/slowsigns. Red flags may be usedoccasionally.

Channelizing DevicesBarricades, vertical pan-

els, drums, cones and tubularmarkers are the most com-monly used devices to alertdrivers of unusual or poten-tially dangerous conditionsin highway and street workareas, and to guide driverssafely through the work zone.Flashing lights are used toalert motorists of a hazard.

Pavement Markingsand Other Lane Controls

Pavement markingshelp direct and regulatetraffic, just like highwaysigns. You will find themalone or used with signsand traffic signals. Whitelines separate trafficmoving in the samedirection. Yellow linesseparate traffic moving

in opposite directions.On two-way roads you will see a solid yellow line with a

broken line beside it in some places. Passing is not allowedon the side with the solid yellow line. Vehicles on the sidewith the broken line may pass when the way is clear.

At intersections, special arrow markings or heavy whitelines give you directions or mark off pedestrian crosswalks

Traffic or Stop

Traffic orProceed

Tube Drum Barricade



20/5618

Crosswalks, Stop Lines andDirectional Arrow Markings

When required to stopbecause of a sign or signal,you must stop before yourvehicle reaches the stopline, or a crosswalk if thereis one. Crosswalks definethe area where pedestrians

are to cross the roadway.You must yield to pedes-trians in or about to entera crosswalk. Not all cross-walks are marked. Be alertfor pedestrians when cross-ing intersections that do nothave defined crosswalks.Special arrow markingsmay be present.

Reversible LanesSome travel lanes are designed to

carry traffic in one direction at certaintimes and in the opposite direction atother times. These lanes are usuallymarked by double-dashed yellow lines.Before you start driving in them, checkto see which lanes you can use at thattime. There may be signs posted by theside of the road or overhead. Sometimesspecial lights are used. A green arrowmeans you can use the lane beneath it;a red X means you may not. A flash-ing yellow X means the lane is onlyfor turning. A steady yellow X meansthat the use of the lane is changing and

you should move out of it as soon as itis safe to do so.

Shared Center Lane

These center lanes are reserved for making left turns (orU-turns when they are permitted) but can be used by vehiclestraveling in both directions. On the pavement, left-turn arrowsfor traffic in one direction alternate with left-hand arrows

for traffic coming from the other direction. These lanes aremarked on each side by a solid yellow and dashed yellowlines.

General Lane Use Do not back a vehicle in a travel lane. It is unsafe to

do so. Drivers do not expect a vehicle to be backingtowards them and may not realize it until it is too lateIf you miss your turn or exit, do not back up on thetravel lane or shoulder. Continue to travel to the nextexit or crossroad.

Do not stop in travel lanes for any reason (confusionbreakdown, letting out a passenger). Keep movinguntil you can safely pull off the road.

On a road with three or more lanes traveling in thesame direction, stay in the right lane except to passIf there is a lot of entering traffic, then use the centetravel lane.

Unless instructed to do so by a traffic control deviceor a flagger, never drive on the shoulder of the road.

On multi-lane roads, the left-most lane is intended tobe used to pass slower vehicles. If you pass on theright, the other driver may have difficulty seeing you

and might suddenly change lanes in front of you. Nevepass on the shoulder, whether it is paved or not. Otherdrivers will never expect you to be there and may puloff the road without looking.

Where there are no signs or lane markings to controturning, you should turn from the lane that is closesto the direction you want to go, and turn into the laneclosest to the one you came from.

When making turns, go from one lane to the otheas directly as possible without crossing lane lines orinterfering with traffic. Once you have completed youturn, you can change to another lane if you need to.

Reserved LanesOn various roadways one or more lanes may be reserved

for special vehicles. Reserved lanes are marked by signsstating that the lane is reserved for special use, and oftenhave a white diamond posted at the side of the road and/opainted on the road surface. Do not travel in one of theselanes unless operating that type of vehicle.

(Left) This sign means the lane is for busand car pool use only.

(Right) This sign means the lane is re

served for bicyclists.

High Occupancy Vehicles (HOV) lanes arereserved for car pools and vehicles with morethan one person in them. Signs say how manypeople must be in the vehicle as well as thedays and hours to which it applies. For example, HOV 4 means there must be at leasfour people in the vehicle.



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When to Yield the Right-of-WayWhere vehicles or pedestrians are likely to meet one

another and there are no signs or signals to regulate traf-fic, there are rules that say who must yield the right-of-way.These rules tell drivers who goes first and who must wait indifferent traffic situations.

The law says who must yield the right-of-way; it doesnot giveanyone the right-of-way. You must do everythingyou can to prevent striking a pedestrian or another vehicle,

regardless of the circumstances.Be alert for bicyclists. While bicyclists and motorists mustshare the rights and responsibilities of using public streetsand roads, motorists should realize bicycle riders are veryvulnerable in crashes. Therefore, motor vehicle driversshould use good defensive driving skills to avoid collisionswith bicyclists.

IntersectionsThe following right-of-way rules apply at intersections:

You must yield when you want to make a right turnafter stopping at a red light, but before the light turnsgreen. However, turns on red must be permitted at

that intersection. Drivers crossing a sidewalk entering or exiting a drive-way, alley, or parking lot must yield to pedestrians. Itis illegal to drive on a sidewalk except to cross it.

Pedestrians using a guide dog or carrying a white canehave absolute right-of-way. Do not use your horn as itcould confuse or frighten the pedestrian who is blind.

Drivers turning left must yield to oncoming cars thatare going straight ahead.

You should watch out for bicyclists. Be ready to yieldthe right-of-way, even at times the bicyclists shouldyield to you. They have no defense against a car ortruck, so it is your responsibility as a driver to watchout for them.

At an intersection where there is no stop sign or trafficsignal, drivers must yield to vehicles coming from theright.

At a four-way stop, the driver reaching the intersectionfirst gets to go first (after coming to a complete stop).

Drivers entering a road from a driveway, alley or road-side must yield to vehicles already on the main road.

You must yield or stop for pedestrians in marked cross-walks, and at unmarked crosswalks at intersections.

You should yield to other vehicles when approachingthe triangular shaped yield signs.

Overtaking VehiclesDrivers overtaking a vehicle traveling in the same direc-tion must yield to that vehicle and allow the vehicle full useof the lane.

Emergency VehiclesYou must yield the right-of-way to a police vehicle, fire

engine, ambulance or other emergency vehicle using a sirenor air horn, and a red or blue flashing light. Pull over to theright edge of the road, or as near to the right as possible, whenyou see or hear an emergency vehicle approaching from

any direction. Fol-low any instruc-tions given overthe emergencyvehicles loud-speaker. If youare in an intersec-tion, drive throughthe intersectionbefore you pull

over. However,if you are on astreet or highwayseparated by amedian strip andthe emergency vehicle is on the other side, you do not haveto stop. You must stay at least 500 feet behind any emergencyvehicle using lights and sirens on its way to an emergency

Persons who are BlindIf you approach a

person walking with awhite cane or a white

cane tipped with red,you must stop andtake whatever ac-tion is necessary toprevent injury to thatperson. The sameapplies to a personbeing led by a guidedog which is wearinga harness and walkingby or in front of the person.

Yielding Situations

(red car shown here must yield to approaching vehicle)

Car in intersection Car on right

Oncoming traffic At yield sign

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School BusesWhen you meet an oncoming school bus displaying flash-

ing amber lights, you must slow down to no more than 20mph and be prepared to stop. If the red lights are flashing orif the stop arm is out, you must come to a complete stop atleast 15 feet from the bus. You must remain stopped as longas the red lights flash or the stop arm is out.

The only exception to this is where you are approachingthe bus from the opposite direction on a road with at least

two lanes in each direction.When overtaking a school bus, you may not pass whenred or amber warning lights are flashing.

After a school bus has stopped to let students off, watchfor children on the side of the road.

If the red lights are flashing or if the stop arm is out, you mustcome to a complete stop at least 15 feet from the bus andremain stopped as long as the red lights flash or the stop armis out.

ParkingDrivers are responsible for making sure their vehicles do

not become a hazard after they have been parked. Wheneveryou park your car, follow these guidelines. Park far enough from any travel lane to avoid inter-

fering with traffic. Make sure your car is visible to drivers approaching

from either direction. Park in a designated area, if possible. Always set your parking brake when you park. Leave

the vehicle in gear if it has a manual transmission,or in park if it has an automatic transmission.

Check traffic before you open the door. Get out ofthe vehicle on the curb side if you can. If you haveto use the street side, check traffic before you getout. Shut the door as soon as you can after gettingout.

Never leave the ignition keys in a parked car. Lock

the doors whenever you leave your vehicle if it willbe out of your sight at any time.

If you must park on a roadway, park your vehicle asfar away from traffic as possible. If there is a curb,park as close to it as you can.

When you park headed downhill, turn your frontwheels toward the curb or roadside so the vehiclewill roll away from traffic if it moves.

If you are headed uphill, turn your front wheels awayfrom the curb. Then let the car roll back slightly untithe right front tire hits the curb. If you are parkinguphill and there is no curb, turn your front wheelstoward the side of the road. That way, the vehiclewill roll away from traffic if it moves.

Down hill Up hill with curb Up hill without curb(with or without curb)

Parking Is Not AllowedThere are many areas where you cannot park. Check for

signs that may prohibit or limit parking. Some parking restrictions are indicated by colored curb markings. Do not park:

on a crosswalk; in front of a public or private driveway; on any bridge outside city limits or in highway tunnels alongside another stopped or parked car (double

parking); closer than five feet from a fire hydrant; closer than 10 feet from a stop sign; closer than 20 feet from a fire station entrance; closer than 50 feet from a hotel or theater entrance closer than 50 feet from a railroad crossing; closer than eight feet parallel to a railroad crossing; in NO PARKING ZONES which are usually marked

with signs or yellow painted curbs;

in an intersection; or on a sidewalk.



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Parallel Parking Signal and stop with

the rear bumper ofyour vehi cle evenwith the rear bum-per of the vehicle infront of the place youwant to park. The twovehicles should beabout one to two feetapart.

Turning your steeringwheel to the right,back slowly aimingthe back of your cartowards the front ofthe car behind you.

As the front of your

car clears the backof the car in front ofyou, turn your wheelssharply to the leftand continue backingslowly until the backof your car almosttouches the car be-hind you.

S t ra igh ten you rwheels and pull for-ward to center the carin the parking space.Your car should be nomore than 18 inchesfrom the curb. Putthe transmission inpark if your car hasan automatic trans-mission and set thebrake. Turn off theengine. (It is againstthe law to leave keysin a running, unattended vehicle.)

To park by the left-hand curb on a one-way street, followthe same directions but reverse right and left in the instruc-tions.

If your car has a manual transmission, leave it in low gearwhen parked and headed uphill

iowa drivers manual | iowa drivers handbook

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