Certifications & licenses in Iowa
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in IA. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about Iowa
Licensing landscape in Iowa
As of July 1, 2024, Iowa no longer requires practical exams for initial barber or cosmetology licensure, only a theory exam.
Iowa Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Arts & Sciences
To be eligible for a massage therapist license in Iowa, applicants must have completed a minimum of 600 hours of training and passed the MBLEx.
Iowa Board of Massage Therapy
As of early 2025, all applicants for EMS certification in Iowa must undergo a fingerprint-based criminal background check through the state's approved vendor.
Iowa Bureau of Emergency Medical and Trauma Services
To obtain a journeyperson plumbing license in Iowa, one must have completed a four-year apprenticeship or hold an equivalent license from another state before taking the exam.
Iowa Plumbing and Mechanical Systems Board
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in Iowa
A $60,000 salary in Iowa has roughly the purchasing power of a $65,000 salary in an average-cost-of-living state.
Regional comparison: Iowa vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs IA |
|---|---|---|
| IA | $39,350 | — |
| IL | $45,960 | +17% vs IA |
| MN | $46,680 | +19% vs IA |
| MO | $37,680 | -4% vs IA |
| NE | $40,000 | +2% vs IA |
| SD | $38,800 | -1% vs IA |
| WI | $45,130 | +15% vs IA |
| State | Required training hours | vs IA |
|---|---|---|
| IA | 600 hours | — |
| IL | 600 hours | +0 hours |
| MN | 625 hours | +25 hours |
| MO | 500 hours | -100 hours |
| NE | 1000 hours | +400 hours |
| SD | 500 hours | -100 hours |
| WI | 600 hours | +0 hours |
Healthcare in Iowa
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | No | $39,350 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $48,430 |
| EMT | Required | $40,660 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $62,630 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $45,480 |
| Medical Coder | No | $50,640 |
| Paramedic | Required | $60,590 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $44,860 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $38,240 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $65,930 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $78,630 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $74,760 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $60,540 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $84,010 |
Skilled Trades in Iowa
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $58,070 |
| Electrician | Required | $60,860 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $60,680 |
| Plumber | Required | $63,890 |
| Welder | No | $55,090 |
Personal Care & Wellness in Iowa
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $36,160 |
| Barber | Required | $58,900 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $35,700 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $57,710 |
Professional & Business in Iowa
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $77,440 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $54,550 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $60,140 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | — |