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How to get a driver's license in Iowa as an immigrant

Everything a new arrival in Iowa needs to know, from driving on a foreign license to the documents the DMV accepts from non-citizens. Facts are quoted from official sources.

Quick answers

Drive on a foreign license?
Not stated in official sources
Deadline after moving
Not stated in official sources
License exchange without tests
4 countries
License without immigration status
No
No SSN?
Bring your SSN card or a document with your name and SSN (e.g. W-2); TIN not accepted. If you are not eligible for an SSN, skip this step.

Exchanging a foreign license

  • France
  • Germany
  • South Korea
  • Taiwan

License must be valid and unexpired; holders may not need to take the knowledge or driving test to transfer it to Iowa.

If your country is not on the list

Holders of licenses from other countries apply as new drivers: pass the written knowledge test(s), vision test and driving test.

Iowa has driver's license reciprocity agreements with France, Germany, South Korea, and the Republic of China (Taiwan). iowadot.gov

Documents for non-citizens

Examples of accepted immigration documents:

  • Permanent Resident Card (I-551)
  • Temporary I-551 stamp in passport
  • Temporary visa with passport
  • I-94
  • Employment Authorization Document (I-766)

License validity: Licenses for temporary foreign nationals are limited to the period USCIS authorizes the stay, not to exceed two years; at least 30 days of status must remain.

Licenses and ID cards issued to temporary foreign nationals must be limited to the period of time iowadot.gov

Social Security number

Bring your SSN card or a document with your name and SSN (e.g. W-2); TIN not accepted. If you are not eligible for an SSN, skip this step.

If you aren't eligible for a SSN with the Social Security Administration, skip this step. iowadot.gov

Proof of residency

Two documents with your current name and Iowa address (utility bill, bank or credit card statement, mortgage, lease, insurance card, dated mail).

Bring two (2) documents that show your current name and the Iowa address where you live. iowadot.gov

Step by step

  1. Gather your most recent USCIS immigration document, SSN proof (if eligible) and two Iowa residency documents (checklist MM1048).
  2. Make an appointment at an Iowa DOT driver's license service center.
  3. At the center, the DOT verifies your lawful status with DHS/USCIS (SAVE); a manual review can take about 45 business days.
  4. Pass the vision test.
  5. Pass the written knowledge test(s) (offered in several languages).
  6. Pass the driving test.
  7. Pay the fees ($6 instruction permit; Class C license $4 per year of term).
  8. The card arrives by mail in a plain white envelope within 30 days of processing.

Fees

Class C operator license: $4 per year of license term; Class C instruction permit: $6 (valid 4 years).

Instruction Permit - Class C | $6 | 4 years iowadot.gov

Prepare for the knowledge test

Checked against official sources on October 27, 2026. Rules change: confirm with the DMV before your visit. This is not legal advice.