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Surgical Technologist License in Iowa

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Surgical Technologist license in IA. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$200

Processing Time

3-5 Weeks

Exam Required

CST Exam (NBSTSA)

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Surgical Technologist license in Iowa.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Surgical Technologist training program in Iowa.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your IA application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the CST Exam (NBSTSA).

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Iowa licensing board and pay the $200 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 3-5 weeks in IA. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

The path to becoming a licensed Surgical Technologist in Iowa involves several key steps. First, complete an approved education program recognized by IA. Next, prepare for and successfully pass the CST Exam (NBSTSA). Finally, gather your documentation and submit your license application through the Iowa state licensing portal.

Requirements

To qualify for Surgical Technologist licensure in Iowa, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. IA mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the CST Exam (NBSTSA), and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the Iowa regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Surgical Technologist license in Iowa is approximately $200. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. IA also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in Iowa may incur additional penalties of up to $50.

License Fee Calculator — Surgical Technologist in Iowa

Base License Fee$200
Estimated Total$200

Renewal Process

Your Surgical Technologist license in Iowa must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal fee in IA is $125. Iowa requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in IA can result in fines and disciplinary action.

License Expiry Calculator — Surgical Technologist in IA

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Iowa requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

Working as a Surgical Technologist in Iowa offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. IA has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. Iowa also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Surgical Technologist professionals.

Document Checklist — Surgical Technologist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Iowa Surgical Technologist License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for IA license holders.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for IA license holders.
Arizona (AZ) FullAZ accepts IA Surgical Technologist license via reciprocity agreement.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize IA Surgical Technologist license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize IA Surgical Technologist license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts IA Surgical Technologist license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) NoneCA does not recognize IA Surgical Technologist license. Full re-application required.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize IA Surgical Technologist license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Iowa

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Des Moines

321 E 12th St, Des Moines, IA 50319

(515) 281-0254

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Cedar Rapids

101 1st St SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401

(319) 286-5080

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Davenport

226 W 4th St, Davenport, IA 52801

(563) 326-7700

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Sioux City

405 6th St, Sioux City, IA 51101

(712) 279-6100

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Iowa City

410 E Washington St, Iowa City, IA 52240

(319) 356-5000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Iowa Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Iowa state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.