Utah issues driver's licenses through the Driver License Division, which operates offices in most counties
You get your Utah driver's license from the Driver License Division, a department within the Utah Department of Public Safety. The Division runs physical offices in 29 counties across the state. You cannot explore by mail or online — you must appear in person with your documents and take a written test and vision screening at the office where you explore.
The closest office to you depends on which county you live in or work in. Some counties have multiple locations; others have one. You do not have to use the office in your home county, though most people do because it is nearest.
The Division also operates a separate testing-only location in Salt Lake City for people who have already submitted their paperwork by mail and need to take their written and vision tests. This location does not issue licenses on the spot — it only administers tests.
Key Takeaways
- The Driver License Division has offices in 29 Utah counties; you must visit one in person to get a license.
- You will need a Social Security number, proof of identity, proof of Utah residency, and proof of legal presence in the United States.
- You take your written test and vision screening at the office; bring your documents and expect to spend 30 minutes to an hour.
- Office hours and wait times vary by location; calling ahead or checking online can tell you which office has the shortest wait.
- If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person.
Finding the office nearest you
The Driver License Division publishes a list of all 29 office locations on its website, organized by county. Each listing includes the street address, phone number, and hours of operation. Hours vary — some offices are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours or close for lunch.
You can call the office directly to ask about current wait times before you go. Many offices are busiest on Mondays and Fridays and during lunch hours. Some locations allow you to check in online before you arrive, which can reduce your wait time.
If you live in a rural county with no Driver License Division office, the nearest office is usually in an adjacent county. The Division's website shows which office serves your area if your county does not have one.
Documents you need to bring
You must bring four categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of Utah residency, and proof of legal presence in the United States. The Division publishes a detailed list of which documents count in each category.
For identity, a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate works. For Social Security, bring your Social Security card or a tax return showing your number. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement in your name. For legal presence, a U.S. birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card works.
Bring the originals, not copies. The office staff will examine them and may make copies for your file. If any document is in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation as well.
What happens at the office
When you arrive, you check in and wait to be called. A staff member will review your documents, take your photograph, and have you sign your process. You will then take a written test on traffic laws and road signs — 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. You will also have your vision screened; if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them.
If you pass both the written test and vision screening, the office prints your license on the spot. You can use it when ready as a valid form of identification. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another time.
The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is and how quickly you complete the written test.
Cost and payment methods
A Utah driver's license costs $30 for a four-year license or $60 for an eight-year license. You choose which term you want when you explore. The office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards.
If you are renewing an existing license rather than getting one for the first time, the cost is the same. If you are replacing a lost or damaged license, the cost is also $30 or $60 depending on the term you choose.
Special rules for drivers under 18
If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must appear with you at the office and sign your process in person. You cannot have someone else sign on their behalf — the parent or guardian must be physically present.
Utah also requires drivers under 18 to hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can get a full license. You get the learner's permit at the same office, and it costs $15. You must pass the written test and vision screening to get the permit, just as you do for a full license.
Once you have held the learner's permit for six months and have logged at least 40 hours of supervised driving (10 of them at night), you can return to the office to get your full license.
If you already have a license from another state
If you are moving to Utah and have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for a Utah license at any Driver License Division office. You still need to bring proof of identity, Social Security number, Utah residency, and legal presence — the same documents as a first-time applicant.
You will also take the written test and vision screening, just as a new driver does. Your out-of-state license will be surrendered and cannot be returned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online or by mail?
No. Utah requires you to appear in person at a Driver License Division office for both new licenses and renewals. You cannot renew by mail or online, even if your current license is still valid.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day at no additional cost, or you can leave and come back another time. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it, but you must pass before the office will issue your license.
Do I need an appointment, or is it first-come, first-served?
Most offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis, though some allow online check-in. Call your local office to ask whether appointments are available or whether you should just walk in. Wait times vary widely by location and time of day.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You must have a Social Security number to get a Utah driver's license. If you do not have one, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license.
How long does it take to get my license after I pass the test?
The office prints your license on the spot if you pass the written test and vision screening. You can use it when ready as a valid form of identification.