Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Athletic Trainer Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for athletic trainer in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Athletic Trainer in Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 3
Certification: Certification required.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
The trauma occurs during the preparation for or participation in a sports competition or during a physical training program, either of which is sponsored by an educational institution, amateur or professional athletic group or other recognized organization.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Athletic Training
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$49,700 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#49 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Athletic Trainer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.).
- 5. Submit the application to Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing~Board of Athletic Training and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of $49,700, Athletic Trainers in Iowa earn 18% below the national median of $60,250. Iowa ranks #49 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$49,700Hourly estimate
$23.8918% below national median
Difference: -$10,550
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationAthletic Trainer Salary Ranking
#49 of 50 statesfor Athletic Trainer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New Jersey | $77,350 |
| #2 | California | $74,150 |
| #3 | Hawaii | $70,930 |
| #4 | Connecticut | $67,090 |
| #5 | Texas | $66,430 |
Nearby States Comparison
Athletic Trainer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $49,700 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $64,340 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $60,520 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $62,140 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $54,340 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $57,430 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 1-2 years |
| South Dakota | $54,200 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Board of Athletic Training
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0075
Phone: 5152810254
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|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Athletic Trainer in Iowa?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Athletic Trainers in Iowa?
Iowa lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Athletic Trainers.
What education do you need to become a Athletic Trainer in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Athletic Trainer licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Athletic Trainer salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Athletic Trainers in Iowa is $49,700. Salaries range from $44,160 (10th percentile) to $62,580 (90th percentile).
How does the Athletic Trainer salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Athletic Trainers in Iowa earn 18% below the national median of $60,250, with a state median of $49,700.
How many Athletic Trainers work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 520 Athletic Trainers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Athletic Trainer license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Athletic Trainers in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Board of Athletic Training. Review agency details at https://dial.iowa.gov/about/boards/athletic-training.
How often do you renew a Athletic Trainer license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.