Iowa CDL Information
A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is one of the first steps to a great-paying career as a commercial truck driver. However, in order to drive a commercial vehicle (CMV) in Iowa, you must first obtain an Iowa CDL. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation’s Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, has summarized many of the steps and requirements for obtaining your CDL in Iowa.
Please note that your state and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regularly update these CDL requirements. Please visit the Iowa Department of Transportation website and the FMCSA website for the most authoritative and up-to-date information regarding CDL requirements and processes.
Drivers who wish to qualify for a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in the state of Iowa must be at least 18 years of age to drive within state lines and 21 years of age to drive outside of the state. In addition to the age requirement, drivers must meet specific criteria and pass a skills test and a driving test. A CDL is required to drive any vehicle that falls within Class A, B, or C categories.
Class A vehicles include any combination of vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the gross vehicle weight rating of the towed vehicle is in excess of 10,000 pounds.
Class B vehicles include any single vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 26,001 pounds or more, as well as any vehicle towing another vehicle that does not exceed a weight of 10,000 pounds.
Class C vehicles include any vehicle or combination of vehicles that does not meet the criteria of either Class A or B, but is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver), or is used in transporting materials classified as hazardous in the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act. Applicants must also have a passenger or hazardous materials endorsement to drive a Class C vehicle.
Remember, the most important thing to remember when you receive a ticket is that you should never just pay the ticket or the court fees without first talking to a legal representative who understands trucking laws. While you want to maintain a clean driving record, unforeseen violations can happen. When they do, you need expert legal protection. Drivers Legal Plan, the Nation's Leading CDL Defense Law Firm, is ready to defend your rights and your career.