The Orem Driver License Office Location and Photo Services

The Utah Driver License Division office in Orem is located at 1160 South 800 East, Orem, UT 84097. This office takes photos for new driver licenses, renewals, and ID cards during regular business hours. You do not need to bring your own photo — the office takes one on-site as part of the licensing process.

The photo is taken by Division staff using a digital camera system. The image meets federal Real ID standards and is stored in the state's licensing database. If you are renewing by mail or online, you may not need a new photo unless your previous one is more than eight years old or you request a change.

Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by time of day and day of week. Afternoons and weekdays mid-week typically have shorter lines than mornings and Fridays. The office does not take appointments for photo services, so you should plan to arrive with time to wait.

Key Takeaways

  • The Orem Driver License Division office is at 1160 South 800 East and takes photos on-site during business hours without an appointment.
  • You do not bring your own photo — the office photographs you using its digital system, and the image meets federal Real ID requirements.
  • If you are renewing by mail or online, a new photo is only required if your last one is older than eight years or you request one.
  • Wait times are shorter on weekday afternoons than on mornings or Fridays, and the office does not hold spots or take reservations.

What to Bring for Your Photo Appointment

Bring your current driver license or ID card, even if it is expired. You will also need proof of identity — a passport, birth certificate, or other document that matches the name on your license process. The office staff will verify your identity before taking the photo.

Wear clothing that contrasts with the background. The Division's photo background is typically light gray or blue, so dark or bright colors photograph better than pastels or white. Avoid hats, sunglasses, and heavy makeup that obscures your face. The photo must show your face clearly and straight-on.

If you wear glasses, you may wear them in the photo, but the Division prefers photos without them if possible. Glare on lenses can affect image quality. Ask the photographer if you are unsure whether your glasses will work.

Office Hours and Contact Information

The Orem office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. It is closed on Sundays and state holidays. Hours may change seasonally or for maintenance, so call ahead if you are making a long trip.

You can reach the office at (801) 297-3500 to confirm hours, ask about current wait times, or get directions. The Utah Driver License Division also maintains a website with office locations and hours across the state.

If the Orem office is too far away, other Division offices in the Salt Lake Valley and surrounding counties offer the same photo services. The nearest alternatives are in Provo, Lehi, and Salt Lake City, each with their own hours and locations.

Photo Requirements Under Utah and Federal Law

Utah driver license photos must meet Real ID standards set by the federal Department of Homeland Security. The photo must be taken within the last 30 days, show your full face, and be in color. Your eyes must be open and visible, and your expression should be neutral.

The Division does not allow filters, heavy editing, or artistic effects. The background is controlled by the office and cannot be changed. If you have religious or medical reasons to cover your face, you may request an exception, but you will need to provide documentation to the Division.

The photo is valid for the life of your license — typically eight years for standard licenses and five years for those under 21. You cannot request a new photo during the license term unless you renew early or change your name or address.

What Happens After Your Photo Is Taken

The Division staff will review the photo on screen before finalizing it. If the image is blurry, your eyes are closed, or the lighting is poor, they will take another one. You do not pay extra for retakes. Once approved, the photo is printed on your physical license card and stored digitally in the state system.

Your new license or ID card is mailed to the address on file, usually within 10 to 15 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while waiting for the card. The temporary is valid for 30 days.

If you need your license sooner, the Division offers expedited mail service for an additional fee. Ask the staff at the Orem office about current expedited processing times and costs.

Renewing Without a New Photo

If you are renewing your license by mail or through the Division's online system, you may not need to visit the Orem office. The Division allows mail and online renewals for drivers whose licenses are not expired and who do not need a new photo.

You will need a new photo if your current one is older than eight years, if you request a change, or if your license is expired. You will also need a new photo if you are changing your name, address, or other information that requires verification. In those cases, you must visit the office in person.

Check the Division's website or call the Orem office to confirm whether your renewal can be done by mail or online. The staff can tell you whether you need to come in for a photo based on your current license and renewal type.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo I took myself instead of having the office take one?

No. The Division requires all photos to be taken by Division staff using the official digital system. This ensures the photo meets Real ID standards and is consistent with other state licenses. You cannot bring a photo from home or another source.

What if I do not like how my photo looks?

You can request a retake when ready after the photo is taken, and the Division will take another one at no extra cost. Once your license is printed and mailed, you cannot change the photo unless you renew your license early. Early renewal carries a fee.

Do I need an appointment to get my photo taken at the Orem office?

No. The office accepts walk-ins and does not hold appointments for photo services. You should expect to wait, especially during peak hours. Arriving on a weekday afternoon typically means a shorter wait than mornings or Fridays.

How long does the photo process take?

The photo itself takes a few minutes, but the entire transaction — including identity verification and paperwork — usually takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is. Bring your documents and be prepared to wait.

What if I wear religious head coverings or have a medical reason to cover my face?

The Division allows exceptions to the standard photo rules for religious or medical reasons. You will need to provide documentation, such as a letter from your religious leader or a doctor's note. Contact the Orem office or the Division's main office to discuss your situation before you visit.