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DRVN > Guide > Iowa > Waterloo

Waterloo Iowa Teen Driving Guide

What parents and teenagers need to know about the learn-to-drive process in Waterloo, IA

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6 steps for your teen to get their license in Waterloo, Iowa.
1
Enroll in an Iowa Driver's Ed Program
WHEN: Your teen can start classroom instruction as soon as they are 14 years old.
DURATION: Iowa law requires 30 hours of classroom instruction.
WHY: By knocking out some classroom hours beforehand, teens will be better prepared for the permit test.
WHERE: Classroom instruction can be done in-person at a local driving school or online.
2
Pass the Learner's Permit Exam
WHEN: Your teen can take the learner's permit exam any time after they turn 14 years old.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED: Bring proof of identity, residency, social security card, completed application and payment for the fee. A guardian must also be present to sign the application.
WHY: This test covers knowledge of the Iowa driver's manual. Your teen must also pass a vision exam.
WHERE: Take the exam at an Iowa DMV location. Make sure to schedule an appointment in advance.
LOCATIONS AROUND THE WATERLOO AREA WHERE YOU CAN TAKE THE EXAM:
3
Practice Driving On Iowa Roads with a Parent
WHEN: This takes place during the time when your teen has their permit, and must be competed before taking the driver's license exam.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED: Your teen should always carry their Iowa learner's permit each time they drive. A parent or guardian is required to be present. Use the DRVN app to guide development and track time.
DURATION: Iowa law requires 20 hours of supervised driving time with 2 of these hours being at night.
WHERE: Practice driving on a range of roads, from residential to city to freeways. Focus especially on roads in and around the area you live in Iowa to build familiarity with local traffic.
MOBILE COACHING APP FOR PARENTS AND TEENS:
DRVN
This Mobile App makes it easy for parents to guide skills development and track practice driving time.

4
Practice Driving with an Instructor In Iowa
WHEN: This takes place while your teen has their Iowa learner's permit, and at the same time as classroom instruction.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED: Your teen should carry their learner's permit, and you'll need to acquire the services of a licensed Iowa Driving instructor.
DURATION: Iowa law requires 6 hours of behind-the-wheel practice with an instructor.
DRIVING INSTRUCTORS IN THE WATERLOO, IOWA AREA:
5
Take the Iowa Driver's License Exam
WHEN: After your teen has turned 16, completed their supervised driving and is prepared for the knowledge test, schedule an appointment to take the driver's license test.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED: Bring proof of identity, social security card, proof of residency (two documents), and payment for the fees. A guardian must be present to sign documents.
WHERE: Take the exam at an Iowa DOT service center. Make sure to schedule the exam in advance.
LOCATIONS WHERE YOU CAN TAKE THE EXAM:
6
Purchase Car Insurance Coverage In Iowa For Your Teen
WHEN: Your teen is automatically covered under your policy when they have their permit, at no additional cost. However, once they get their full license and start driving, they will need a separate insurance coverage. Be prepared, this can be costly.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED: You'll need to provide your insurance agent with a copy of your teen's driver's license, plus information on the primary vehicle that they will be driving. If your teen is a good student with a grade point average of 3.0 or higher, many insurers will offer discounts if you provide a copy of their grade card.
WHERE: Start with your insurance agent, but make sure to shop around!

We have even more detailed driving information available for specific Iowa Cities.

This information includes local places to assist you in completing each of the steps necessary to drive in Iowa.
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