Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Business
Financial Advisor Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for financial advisor in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Financial Advisor in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Tied to business
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Commerce • Division of Insurance
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,790 median (20% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of 81,790, Financial Advisors in Iowa earn 20% below the national median of $102,140. Iowa ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$81,790Hourly estimate
$39.3220% below national median
Difference: -$20,350
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationFinancial Advisor Salary Ranking
#37 of 50 statesfor Financial Advisor median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | New York | 167,970 |
| #2 | Idaho | 136,440 |
| #3 | California | 128,650 |
| #4 | Delaware | 128,170 |
| #5 | New Jersey | 123,690 |
Nearby States Comparison
Financial Advisor licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $81,790 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $94,420 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $115,680 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $104,310 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $84,040 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $74,040 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $123,380 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
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 | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Missouri | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Iowa Department of Commerce • Division of Insurance
601 Locust Street, Des Moines, IA, 50309-3738
Phone: 5152425313
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Civil Engineer | $94,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $63,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Financial Advisor in Iowa?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Financial Advisors in Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Financial Advisors.
What education do you need to become a Financial Advisor in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Financial Advisor licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Financial Advisor salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Financial Advisors in Iowa is 81,790.
How does the Financial Advisor salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Financial Advisors in Iowa earn 20% below the national median of $102,140, with a state median of 81,790.
How many Financial Advisors work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 2,400 Financial Advisors according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Financial Advisor 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 Financial Advisors in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Commerce / Division of Insurance. Review agency details at https://iid.iowa.gov/regulated-individuals.