Teen Driving
Promoting safety on Iowa's roadways is a priority for the Center for Advocacy and Outreach. Along with the University of Iowa College of Public Health and Public Policy Center, the Center for Advocacy and Outreach is working to address teen driving safety by conducting research studies on this important issue.
Our current research endeavor utilizes in-vehicle video technology, known as DriveCam, to examine teen driver behavior during the first 20 weeks after licensure. A goal is to show that video feedback can help increase teens' awareness of their behaviors while behind the wheel. Parent-teen communication is also a major part of the research.
Iowa's Seat Belt Law
Information for Teens
- Youth and Teens ages 11-17 are required to wear a seat belt in any seating position-front or back. Learn more about properly restraining children under age 11.
- Teens ages 14 and over will be ticketed themselves if they are in violation of Iowa's seat belt law.
- These restrictions went into effect July 1, 2010.
Texting Ban
Driving & Cell Phones: Information for Teens
- Iowa's cell phone/texting ban prohibits the use of an electronic or entertainment device while driving, unless the vehicle is at a complete stop off the traveled portion of the roadway.
- Applies to drivers who hold the following licenses:
- An intermediate license
- A restricted license for a person between 16 and 18 years who is not enrolled in school
- A school permit
- A learner's permit
- These restrictions went into effect July 1, 2010.