Certifications & licenses in Iowa
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 27 professional credentials in IA. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about 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
A $60,000 salary in Iowa has roughly the purchasing power of a $65,000 salary in an average-cost-of-living state.
| State | Median annual wage | vs IA |
|---|---|---|
| IA | $38,672 | — |
| IL | $36,429 | -6% vs IA |
| MN | $40,285 | +4% vs IA |
| MO | $33,298 | -14% vs IA |
| NE | $32,320 | -16% vs IA |
| SD | $38,063 | -2% vs IA |
| WI | $41,847 | +8% 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
13 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | No | $38,630 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $47,820 |
| EMT | Required | $39,260 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $59,460 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $43,670 |
| Medical Coder | No | $51,580 |
| Paramedic | Required | $39,260 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $41,380 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $38,040 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $64,350 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $68,790 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $53,920 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $82,770 |
Trades in Iowa
8 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $55,080 |
| Electrician | Required | $62,880 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $59,490 |
| Plumber | Required | $61,230 |
| Welder | No | $49,450 |
| Barber | Required | $78,480 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $37,850 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $62,400 |
Professional in Iowa
6 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $74,290 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $53,280 |
| Personal Trainer | No | $36,130 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $63,150 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $36,420 |