Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Technology
Software Developer Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for software developer in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Software Developer in Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.
- 4
Certification: Certification required.
- 5
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Iowa Accountancy Examining Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$109,850 median (17% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#34 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Software Developer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Specific type of conviction prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing~Iowa Accountancy Examining Board and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of $109,850, Software Developers in Iowa earn 17% below the national median of $133,080. Iowa ranks #34 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
$109,850Hourly estimate
$52.8117% below national median
Difference: -$23,230
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSoftware Developer Salary Ranking
#34 of 50 statesfor Software Developer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $170,910 |
| #2 | Washington | $166,910 |
| #3 | New York | $161,260 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | $150,520 |
| #5 | Maryland | $137,890 |
Nearby States Comparison
Software Developer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $109,850 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $124,540 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $103,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $127,770 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $114,550 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $116,420 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $87,770 | 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 | 50 | Low | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| 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
Official website verified
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Iowa Accountancy Examining Board
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50309
Phone: 5157259022
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Network Architects | $107,060 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | $112,950 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Database Architects | $131,370 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| IT Project Manager | $103,690 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Software Developer 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 Software Developers in Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Software Developers.
What education do you need to become a Software Developer in Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Software Developer licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Software Developer salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Software Developers in Iowa is $109,850. Salaries range from $70,650 (10th percentile) to $169,200 (90th percentile).
How does the Software Developer salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Software Developers in Iowa earn 17% below the national median of $133,080, with a state median of $109,850.
How many Software Developers work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 9,840 Software Developers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Software Developer 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 Software Developers in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Iowa Accountancy Examining Board. Review agency details at http://www.plb.iowa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Software Developer license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.