Getting a Utah driver's license: the basic path

To get a driver's license in Utah, you need to pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide proof of identity and residency. The Utah Driver License Division handles all licenses and issues them through the state's 14 regional offices. You can get a learner's permit first (which lets you drive with a licensed adult), or go straight to a full license if you're 18 or older and have held a valid license in another state.

The whole process typically takes a few weeks from start to finish, though it depends on how quickly you schedule your tests and how many people are ahead of you at your local office. You'll pay a fee when you explore — the amount varies based on the type of license and how long you want it valid.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver License Division office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of Utah residency to explore.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, then a practical driving test with an examiner in your own vehicle.
  • If you are under 18, you must first get a learner's permit and hold it for a set period before you can test for a full license.
  • Your new license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks after you pass both tests.

What documents you need to bring

The Driver License Division requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Utah residency. For identity, bring a passport, certified birth certificate, or an ID from another state. For Social Security, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your number (like a W-2 or tax return).

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and a Utah address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a utility bill or lease, you can bring two documents together — for example, a voter registration card and a piece of mail from a government agency.

Bring your current license from another state if you have one. If you're under 18, you'll also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person at the office.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 40 questions about Utah traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test covers things like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, and what to do at a red light or stop sign.

You can study using the Utah Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the Driver License Division website. Many people study it for a few hours or a few days before taking the test. The test is given on a computer at the Driver License Division office, and you get your results right away.

If you don't pass, you can take the test again the same day or come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though you will pay a fee each time.

The driving test: what to expect

After you pass the written test, you schedule a driving test with an examiner. You bring your own vehicle, and the examiner sits in the passenger seat while you drive a set route in your local area. The test usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic skills like starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws.

The examiner is looking to see that you can control the vehicle safely, follow road signs and signals, and react correctly to other traffic. Common reasons people don't pass include hitting the curb while parking, rolling through a stop sign, or not checking mirrors and blind spots. You can retake the driving test if you don't pass, and you'll need to schedule another appointment.

Bring your vehicle's registration and proof of insurance. The vehicle must be in safe working condition — working brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and steering. If something is broken, the examiner will not test you and you'll need to reschedule.

If you're under 18: the learner's permit step

If you're under 18, you must get a learner's permit before you can take the driving test. To get a permit, you pass the written test and provide your documents, just like for a full license. The permit lets you drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting next to you.

You must hold the learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for a full license. During that time, you can practice driving with a supervising adult. After six months, you come back to the Driver License Division office, take the driving test, and if you pass, you get your full license.

There are also restrictions on when you can drive with a permit — for example, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless a parent or guardian is in the car. The permit paperwork will explain all the rules.

Where to go and how to schedule

The Driver License Division has 14 offices across Utah. You can find the one nearest you on the Driver License Division website, which also shows their hours and phone numbers. Some offices are in Salt Lake City, Provo, Ogden, and other major cities, and some are in smaller towns.

You can walk in without an appointment at most offices, but wait times vary. If you want to avoid a long wait, you can call ahead or check the website to see current wait times. Some offices also let you schedule an appointment online or by phone, which can save you time.

Bring all your documents, your vehicle (for the driving test), and the fee. The fee for a license varies depending on the type and how long you want it valid — a standard license is usually valid for five years.

After you pass: getting your license in the mail

Once you pass both the written and driving tests, the Driver License Division will mail your new license to the address you provided. It usually arrives within two to three weeks. You'll get a temporary paper license at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the plastic card to arrive in the mail.

Your license will have your photo, name, address, date of birth, and license number on it. Check it carefully when it arrives to make sure all the information is correct. If something is wrong, you can go back to the Driver License Division office to request a correction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a license if I don't have a Social Security number?

No, a Social Security number is required by Utah law. If you don't have one, you'll need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a driver's license.

What if I moved to Utah from another state and already have a license there?

If you have a valid license from another state and you're 18 or older, you can exchange it for a Utah license without taking the written or driving test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, and proof of Utah residency to any Driver License Division office. You'll pay a fee and get a temporary license on the spot.

How much does a Utah driver's license cost?

The fee varies based on the type of license and how long you want it valid. A standard five-year license costs one amount, and an eight-year license costs more. A learner's permit costs less than a full license. Check the Driver License Division website or call your local office for the exact current fee.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. You'll schedule another appointment at a Driver License Division office and pay the test fee again. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after more practice.

Can I renew my license online?

You can renew your license by mail or online if you meet certain conditions — for example, your license must not be expired for more than five years, and you must not have any medical or legal holds on your record. Check the Driver License Division website to see if you're may be able to access for online renewal, or call your local office.