Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Physician Assistant Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for physician assistant in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Physician Assistant in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Iowa Board of Physician Assistants
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$133,400 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 133,400, Physician Assistants in Iowa earn 0% above the national median of $133,260. Iowa ranks #22 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
$133,400Hourly estimate
$64.130% above national median
Difference: +$140
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationPhysician Assistant Salary Ranking
#22 of 50 statesfor Physician Assistant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Hawaii | 163,020 |
| #2 | California | 161,080 |
| #3 | Washington | 156,990 |
| #4 | New York | 152,650 |
| #5 | Oregon | 149,130 |
Nearby States Comparison
Physician Assistant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $133,400 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $139,300 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $132,820 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $122,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $139,200 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $128,240 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $128,130 | 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 | 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
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Iowa Board of Physician Assistants
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50319-0075
Phone: 5152810254
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $66,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Physician Assistant 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 Physician Assistants in Iowa?
Iowa lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Physician Assistants.
What education do you need to become a Physician Assistant in Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Physician Assistant licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Physician Assistant salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Physician Assistants in Iowa is 133,400. Salaries range from $108,400 (10th percentile) to $172,510 (90th percentile).
How does the Physician Assistant salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Physician Assistants in Iowa earn 0% above the national median of $133,260, with a state median of 133,400.
How many Physician Assistants work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 1,200 Physician Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Physician Assistant 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 Physician Assistants in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Iowa Board of Physician Assistants. Review agency details at https://dial.iowa.gov/about/boards/physician-assistants.