Iowa’s Commercial Driver’s License Laws

Iowa has different commercial driver's license (CDL) classes and endorsements to authorize the operation of each type of commercial motor vehicle (CMV). Each license and endorsement carries different requirements and is subject to varying regulations. Violation of these regulations or certain convictions can result in CDL disqualification. This article outlines the CDL application process and the CDL disqualification penalties.

Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Requirements in Iowa

A CDL is generally required to operate a vehicle weighing 26,001 or more pounds or 10,001 or more pounds if a passenger vehicle. A CDL is also required for vehicles designed to transport hazardous materials or 16 or more passengers.

Motor homes, emergency-response vehicles, and military vehicles are generally exempt from the CDL requirements. CMVs used for agriculture can also be exempt when used within 150 miles of the farm and operated only by farmers or the farmer's family members.

(Iowa Admin. Code r. 761-607.16 (2024).)

Iowa's CDL License Classes

There are three classes of CDLs based on the weight of the truck and/or trailer(s).

The CDL must be sufficient to operate the CMV's weight. For example, a class A CDL can be used to operate any weight of CMV.

Iowa's CDL Endorsements for Transporting Passengers and Special Cargo

A CDL operator can take additional tests to receive CDL endorsements. Endorsements are added to the license and permit the operation of special CMVs like school buses and tankers. (Iowa Admin. Code r. 761-607.17 (2024).)

CDL Restrictions

Iowa can also place special restrictions on the driver's license. For example, a driver under 21 years old is restricted to driving in-state only.

Iowa's Restricted Agricultural CDL

Iowa provides a seasonal agriculture CDL that is valid only for 180 days but does not require a driving examination. The driver must have a valid driver's license and be free of any suspensions or prohibitive convictions in the last two years.

How To Get a CDL in Iowa

All CDL applicants must be between 18 and 72 years old and have a valid Iowa driver's license before beginning the CDL application process. The applicant must then complete a driving history check and vision test and pass the written exam to obtain a commercial learner's permit (CLP). The CLP allows CMV operation under the supervision of a licensed commercial driver. (Iowa Admin. Code r. 761-607.20 (2024).)

CDL driving exam. After holding a CLP for 14 days, the applicant can take the CDL driving exam. The driving exam can be waived for CLP holders with prior military experience operating CMVs. (Iowa Admin. Code r. 761-607.28 (2024).)

Medical exam. All CDL holders must obtain and maintain a medical certificate to ensure physical fitness to operate a CMV.

Iowa's Rules for CDL Revocation and Disqualification

CMV operation is subject to special rules. Failure to follow these rules can result in fines and license disqualification. Any CDL disqualification can be contested by administrative review. (Iowa Code Ann. § 321.208 (2024).)

Serious Traffic Offenses

A driver will be disqualified for committing multiple "serious violations" within three years. Having two offenses will result in a 60-day revocation, and having three or more violations carries a 120-day revocation. "Serious traffic offenses" include speeding 15 miles per hour or more over the limit, reckless driving, following too closely, texting while driving in a CMV, and any traffic violation involving a fatality. Driving a CMV without the proper license and endorsement is also considered a serious traffic violation.

Major Offenses

A CDL will be disqualified for one year upon the following major offenses: chemical test refusal, OUI (operating under the influence), an OUI in a CMV, leaving the scene of an accident, driving a CMV while revoked, and using a motor vehicle in the commission of a felony or an aggravated misdemeanor. A violation occurring in a vehicle designed for hazardous materials will result in a three-year revocation. Any subsequent conviction of the above-stated violations or the use of a motor vehicle to distribute or produce controlled substances will result in lifetime disqualification.

CDL Out-of-Service Orders

A police officer can issue an out-of-service order (OSO) to both a driver and a CMV, temporarily prohibiting operation. Driving in violation of the "out-of-service order" is a simple misdemeanor, and the penalties depend on the number of prior violations in the last ten years.

• First offense. 180-day to one-year license disqualification (180 days to 2 years if in CMV designed for hazmat or more than 15 passengers). Minimum $3,861 fine.
• Second offense. Two-to five-year license disqualification (three to five years if in CMV designed for hazmat or more than 15 passengers). Minimum 7,723 fine.
• Third or subsequent offense. Three-to five-year license disqualification (mandatory five years if in CMV designed for hazmat or more than 15 passengers). Minimum 7,723 fine.

An employer that allows an OSO violation will also face a simple misdemeanor and a $6,975 to $38,612 fine. (Iowa Code Ann. § 321.208A (2024).)

Railroad Crossing Rules for CDL Holders

CMVs are required to either stop or slow down before crossing railroad tracks and must ensure there is proper clearance to cross safely. A violation will result in a 60-day disqualification for a first offense, a 120-day disqualification for a second offense, and a one-year disqualification for a third or subsequent offense. The driver's employer can also be fined up to $20,017. (Iowa Code Ann. § 321.343 (2024).)