Utah requires you to visit a Driver License Division office in person, pass a written test and driving test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number

You cannot get a Utah driver's license by mail or online. The state requires a visit to one of its Driver License Division offices, where you will take a written knowledge test, a driving test, and submit original documents. The entire process typically takes several weeks from start to finish, though the office visit itself usually lasts one to two hours.

Utah issues driver's licenses valid for eight years for adults age 21 and older, and five years for drivers under 21. The cost is $33 for an eight-year license and $20 for a five-year license as of 2024, though fees can change. If you are moving to Utah from another state, you have 60 days to obtain a Utah license before driving with an out-of-state license becomes illegal.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other state ID to prove your identity, along with proof of Utah residency such as a utility bill or lease.
  • The written test covers traffic laws and road signs from the Utah Driver Handbook, which you can read free from the Driver License Division website.
  • You must pass the written test before scheduling a driving test, and you must bring your own vehicle or arrange one through the testing office for the road exam.
  • Utah offers a graduated licensing system for drivers under 18, which includes a learner's permit stage and a provisional license stage with restrictions on passengers and driving hours.
  • You can schedule your office visit and written test online through the Driver License Division website, though some offices accept walk-ins during specific hours.

Documents you need to bring to the Driver License Division office

Bring an original or certified copy of one document proving your identity. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a valid ID from another U.S. state or territory. A photocopy of your birth certificate is not acceptable — it must be certified or an original.

You also need proof of Utah residency. The Driver License Division accepts a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax notice, or government mail addressed to you at your Utah address. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works if it meets these requirements.

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. You will also need to provide your date of birth and current address. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the process in person at the office.

The written test: what to study and how it works

The written test has 40 multiple-choice questions covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is based on the Utah Driver Handbook, which you can read free from the Driver License Division website or request a printed copy at any office.

The handbook covers right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, what different road signs mean, how to handle intersections and turns, and what to do in bad weather or emergency situations. You can take the test in English or Spanish. The office will provide the test on a computer or paper, depending on the location.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee for retakes. Most people study the handbook for a few days before the test and pass on their first attempt.

Scheduling and taking the driving test

You must pass the written test before the office will schedule your driving test. The driving test usually takes place within one to three weeks after you pass the written exam, depending on how busy the local office is. You can schedule the driving test at the same time you take the written test, or you can call or go online to book it later.

For the driving test, you must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, steering, lights, wipers, and mirrors. If you do not have access to a vehicle, some Driver License Division offices allow you to use a test vehicle for an additional fee, though availability varies by location. Call your local office to ask whether this option is available.

The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions. The examiner will ask you to perform tasks such as parking, turning, stopping at signs, and merging. You must follow all traffic laws during the test. Minor mistakes do not result in failure, but serious violations such as running a red light or hitting an object will.

Graduated licensing for drivers under 18

Utah requires drivers under 18 to go through a two-stage process. First, you obtain a learner's permit by passing the written test and vision screening. With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed adult age 21 or older is in the front passenger seat. You must hold the learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test.

After you pass the driving test, you receive a provisional license valid until age 18. The provisional license has restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work or school, you can have no more than one passenger under age 21 in the vehicle, and you cannot use a cell phone while driving except in emergencies. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after one year, whichever comes first.

What happens after you pass the driving test

After you pass the driving test, the Driver License Division will issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within a few business days, depending on the office. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while you wait for the plastic card. You can drive legally with the temporary license.

Your new license will show your name, date of birth, address, license number, and any restrictions or endorsements. If you wear corrective lenses, the license will note that you must wear them while driving. If you have medical conditions that affect your driving, the office may add restrictions to your license.

Keep your license with you whenever you drive. If you lose it, you can request a replacement at any Driver License Division office for a fee. If your address changes, you must update it within 30 days by visiting an office or using the online renewal system.

Renewing or replacing your Utah license

You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person at a Driver License Division office. Online renewal is available if your license is not expired and you have not had any major changes to your information. The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs $33 for an eight-year license.

If you renew by mail, send your current license, the renewal form, and the fee to the address listed on the Driver License Division website. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal at an office is fastest and allows you to update your photo and address at the same time.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at any Driver License Division office. Bring your Social Security card or proof of your number, proof of identity, and proof of residency. A replacement license costs $33 and is issued the same day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The Driver License Division offers the written test in Spanish and several other languages. Call your local office or check the Driver License Division website to confirm which languages are available at your location. You may need to schedule your test in advance if your language is not offered during all hours.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test as soon as the next day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee for retakes. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. Before retaking the test, review the areas where you struggled and practice with a licensed driver.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a Utah driver's license?

Yes. Utah law requires you to provide your Social Security number to obtain a driver's license. If you do not have a Social Security number, you may be able to obtain an ID card instead of a driver's license. Contact your local Driver License Division office to discuss your options.

How long does it take to get a Utah driver's license from start to finish?

The office visit takes one to two hours. After you pass the written test, the driving test is usually scheduled within one to three weeks. Once you pass the driving test, you receive a temporary license when ready and the plastic card arrives by mail within a few business days. Total time is typically three to four weeks.

What if I move to Utah from another state?

You have 60 days to obtain a Utah license. You can continue driving with your out-of-state license during this period. When you explore for a Utah license, bring your current out-of-state license along with your other documents. You will need to pass the written test and driving test, just as a new driver would.