Iowa residents need best counties to apply for non-resident permits

[AmericanGunSafety]

Now that Minnesota no longer recognizes some permits that it used to, what counties close to the Iowa border would you recommend for applying for a non-resident permit? Good counties would have customer friendly hours and personnel, along with efficient processing. The ability to make appointments, if necessary, would be helpful if someone is driving a long distance to apply. Also, is it correct to assume NRA and USCCA Certified Instructor credentials would qualify as training? Thanks!