Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Transportation
Commercial Pilot Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for commercial pilot 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 Commercial Pilot in Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Experience: No experience required.
- 2
Certification: Certification required.
- 3
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Agr. and land Stewardship
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$101,040 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Commercial Pilot licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Submit the application to Iowa Department of Agr. and land Stewardship and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of $101,040, Commercial Pilots in Iowa earn 18% below the national median of $122,670. Iowa ranks #42 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
$101,040Hourly estimate
$48.5818% below national median
Difference: -$21,630
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCommercial Pilot Salary Ranking
#42 of 50 statesfor Commercial Pilot median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New Jersey | $229,820 |
| #2 | Connecticut | $227,140 |
| #3 | New York | $172,500 |
| #4 | Texas | $162,930 |
| #5 | Delaware | $155,640 |
Nearby States Comparison
Commercial Pilot licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $101,040 | Varies by state board | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $117,960 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $103,290 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $105,290 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $124,060 | Specific course required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $100,150 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $75,740 | 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 | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Iowa Department of Agr. and land Stewardship
Wallace State Office Building, 502 E. 9th St, Des Moines, IA, 50319
Phone: 5152816358
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $55,080 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians | $70,080 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $385,010 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Commercial Pilot 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 Commercial Pilots in Iowa?
Iowa lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Commercial Pilots.
What is the typical Commercial Pilot salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Commercial Pilots in Iowa is $101,040. Salaries range from $54,310 (10th percentile) to $178,260 (90th percentile).
How does the Commercial Pilot salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Commercial Pilots in Iowa earn 18% below the national median of $122,670, with a state median of $101,040.
How many Commercial Pilots work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 440 Commercial Pilots according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Commercial Pilot license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Commercial Pilots in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Agr. and land Stewardship. Review agency details at https://iowaagriculture.gov/animal-industry-bureau/animal-welfare-faq.
How often do you renew a Commercial Pilot license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.