Where to get a Utah driver license and what you need
Utah driver licenses are issued by the Driver License Division, which is part of the Utah Department of Public Safety. You cannot get one online or by mail — you must visit a Driver License office in person, bring required documents, pass a written test and vision screening, and have your photo taken. The state has offices in most counties, and you can find the one nearest you on the Utah Driver License Division website.
Before you go, gather the documents you'll need. Utah requires proof of identity (a passport, certified birth certificate, or foreign national ID), proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), and proof of Utah residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). If you're renewing an expired license, bring the expired license itself. If you're a new resident, bring documents showing you've lived in Utah for at least 30 days.
The fee for a new driver license is set by the state and varies slightly depending on the type of license and how long it's valid. A standard license costs less than a commercial license. Renewal fees are lower than new-license fees. The Driver License Division website lists current fees.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Driver License Division office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and Utah residency to get or renew a license.
- Utah requires you to pass a written knowledge test and vision screening before a license is issued, even if you're renewing.
- A new license typically takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail after you pass the tests and pay the fee.
- You can find your nearest Driver License office and check current hours and fees on the Utah Driver License Division website.
What to expect during your visit to a Driver License office
When you arrive at the office, you'll check in and wait to be called. A staff member will review your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. You'll then take a written test covering Utah traffic laws and road signs — the test is multiple choice and you need to pass with a score set by the state. After that, you'll have your vision screened; if you don't meet the standard, you may need glasses or contacts to pass.
If you pass both the written test and vision screening, you're done at the office. The state will mail your new license to the address you provided, usually within one to two weeks. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another time. If you fail the vision screening, you'll need to correct your vision and return.
Bring your documents in originals — photocopies are not accepted. If any of your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation as well. The office staff can tell you on the spot if a document doesn't meet the state's requirements.
Renewing a license before it expires
Utah allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewal is simpler than getting a new license — you don't retake the written test, though you still have your vision screened and a new photo taken. You'll need your expired license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency, just as you would for a new license.
Renewing early is useful if your license will expire soon and you want to avoid the rush or if you're planning travel. The renewal fee is lower than the fee for a new license. Your renewed license will be valid for the same length of time as a new license — typically eight years for a standard driver license, though the exact term depends on your age and the type of license.
What to do if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged
If your license is lost or stolen, report it to the Driver License Division as soon as you can. You can do this by visiting an office in person or by calling the division's main line. When you report it, the state will flag your old license number so it can't be misused. You'll then need to get a replacement, which requires the same documents as a renewal and costs a replacement fee set by the state.
If your license is damaged but still readable, you can exchange it for a new one at any Driver License office. Bring the damaged license and your proof of identity. The replacement process is faster than a full renewal because you don't need to retake the vision screening or written test.
Getting a commercial driver license (CDL) in Utah
A commercial driver license is required if you drive a truck, bus, or other vehicle for work that meets the state's weight or passenger requirements. The process is more involved than getting a standard license. You'll need to pass a written test specific to commercial driving, a skills test that includes a pre-trip vehicle inspection and an on-road driving test, and a medical examination by a certified medical examiner.
You must also hold a valid Utah driver license before you can get a CDL. The written test covers federal and state commercial driving rules, and the skills test is administered by an examiner at a Driver License office. The fees for a CDL are higher than for a standard license. The Driver License Division website lists CDL testing locations and the current fee schedule.
Changing your name or address on your license
If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you'll need to update your driver license. Bring your current license, proof of your legal name change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of identity to any Driver License office. The staff will issue you a new license with your updated name. There is usually a small fee for this change.
If you move within Utah, you can update your address without getting a new license. Visit any Driver License office with your current license and proof of your new address. The office will update your record, and your address will be corrected on your license the next time you renew. If you move out of Utah, you'll need to get a license from your new state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online or by mail?
No. Utah requires all driver license transactions — new licenses, renewals, and replacements — to be done in person at a Driver License office. You cannot renew online or by mail.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day at most offices, or you can schedule another visit. There is usually a small fee each time you retake the test. You have a limited number of attempts within a certain time period; the Driver License Division staff can tell you the current limit.
How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?
The state mails your new license to you, and delivery typically takes one to two weeks. You'll receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.
Do I need to take the written test again if I'm renewing?
No. When you renew, you only need to have your vision screened and a new photo taken. You do not retake the written test unless your license was suspended or revoked.
What if I'm a new resident and don't have a Utah address yet?
You'll need proof that you've lived in Utah for at least 30 days. This can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name dated within 60 days. If you don't have one yet, wait until you do before visiting the office, or bring a letter from your employer or landlord confirming your move-in date.