Keeping Iowa’s Young Drivers Safe
The Journey to Becoming a Smart Driver Starts Here
For young drivers, getting a license comes with more freedom, new adventures, and unforgettable memories. But it also comes with responsibility — to yourself, your passengers, and everyone else on the road. This journey isn’t just about getting your license; it’s about becoming a smart driver.
The Importance of Driver Education
As part of the Iowa Graduated Driver Licensing program, drivers under the age of 18 are required to complete a state approved driver education program. Students may enroll in a driver education program through public schools or licensed private driver education companies taught by Iowa licensed classroom educators and DOT certified behind-the-wheel instructors in the State of Iowa.
Over 93 percent of students who complete an approved driver education course from one of the Iowa licensed driver education programs are excused from further drive skills testing at the time of licensing.
Why Is Driver Education Required?
Think about the first time you rode a bike without training wheels. You needed guidance, practice, and a few scraped knees before you mastered it. Driving lessons give you the same practical experience with guidance from a professional instructor.
In addition to skills like parallel parking and interstate driving, driving lessons will teach you:
- The rules of the road
- Defensive driving techniques
- How to handle unexpected situations
It’s about ensuring you’re prepared and confident in any scenario you might encounter on Iowa’s roads.
For Parents: Supporting Your Teen Driver
Think back to your own driving experience. What made it easier or harder? As a parent, it’s important to be a calm and supportive resource for your future teen driver. Help prepare them for all the surprises that come with driving by offering practical, behind-the-wheel experience, along with verbal guidance and reassurance. When you’re a supportive parent, you’re more likely to set your young driver up for success.
Encourage Practical Driving Experience
While knowledge of traffic laws is very important, behind-the-wheel experience is critical for a teen learning to drive. Teens 14 and older can get an instruction permit when they pass a knowledge and vision test and have written consent from their parent or guardian.
Teens with permits can drive anytime when supervised by a parent, guardian, or immediate family member who is at least 21 years of age. They can also drive with a driver education instructor or a licensed driver at least 25 years old with written permission from a parent or guardian.
Set a Good Example
Your teen watches your every move, even when you think they’re not. Your driving habits will influence theirs. Your example will help them develop the habits that will keep them safe on the road.
Show them what safe driving looks like:
- Buckle up — even in the back seat.
- Obey speed limits.
- Put away distractions.
Share the Rules of the Road for Young Drivers
Teens often think they’re invincible, but — spoiler alert — they’re not. Set rules of the road so they know what is expected of them and how they can keep themselves and others safe.
Everyone wears a seat belt — Whether they’re sitting in the front or back seat, every passenger should be buckled up. About 60 percent of Iowa traffic deaths involved unbuckled passengers. Which means, so many deaths can be prevented by simply fastening your seat belt.
No drinking or drugs — Although people under 21 are legally prohibited from drinking alcohol, on average, 30 percent of crashes that cause the death a young driver involve impairment.
Avoid speeding — Nearly one in three teen drivers involved in fatal crashes were speeding. Going fast reduces reaction time, which is even more detrimental to inexperienced young drivers.
No distractions — Driving is only thing teens should focus on behind the wheel. Make sure they know the dangers of texting while driving, eating, drinking, or fixing hair and makeup when they should have their eyes on the road. Show them the “do not disturb” feature on their phones to prevent distractions.
Young Driver FAQs
Over 93 percent of students who complete an approved driver education course from one of the Iowa licensed driver education programs are excused from further drive skills testing at the time of licensing. However, a parent, guardian, instructor, or licensing personnel may request that a drive test be administered by the Iowa DOT.
To find the best option for your family, contact your school or a nearby private driver’s education company.
Anyone at least 16 years old can qualify to get an intermediate license if they fulfill the requirements outlined by the Iowa Department of Transportation. Visit iowadot.gov for specific information.
Teens 14 and older can get an instruction permit when they pass a knowledge and vision test and have written consent from their parent or guardian. Visit iowadot.gov for specific information.
Apply for a Traffic Safety Grant
Interested in making the road safer for young drivers in your area? The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau offers traffic safety grants to state, county, and local government agencies; non-profit organizations; higher education institutions; and hospitals for youth programs.