What you need to do to get a new Utah driver's license
To get your first Utah driver's license, you visit a Driver License Division office in person, pass a written test and a driving test, and provide documents that prove your identity and residency. The whole process takes about two visits — one for the written test and one for the driving test — and costs $33 for a four-year license or $66 for an eight-year license. You cannot do this online or by mail; Utah requires you to appear in person and pass both tests before they issue the license.
The timeline depends on how quickly you schedule your tests and how many people are ahead of you at the office. Most people complete the written test on their first visit and can schedule the driving test for a few days or weeks later. Once you pass the driving test, you walk out with a temporary license valid for 30 days while the permanent card is mailed to you.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Driver License Division office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of Utah residency before you can take either test.
- The written test covers Utah traffic laws and road signs; you can study the official Driver Handbook free on the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles website.
- The driving test is conducted by a Division examiner in your own vehicle or a Division vehicle, and you must pass both the written and driving tests to receive a license.
- A four-year license costs $33 and an eight-year license costs $66; you pay at the office when you pass your driving test.
Documents you need to bring to the office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued photo ID that proves your identity. You also need your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number — a tax return, W-2, or Social Security statement works. Do not bring a photocopy of your Social Security card; bring the original or a document that displays the number.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Utah address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, a letter from your landlord or a family member you live with, signed and dated, can work if you also bring a document showing their residency at that address.
If you are under 18, you also need a signed Parental Consent form (Form DL-26), which you can read from the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles website or pick up at any Driver License Division office. A parent or legal guardian must sign it in front of you, and you bring it to your appointment.
How to study for and pass the written test
The written test has 40 multiple-choice 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 topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean.
Study the official Utah Driver Handbook, which is free and available as a PDF on the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles website. Read through it once, then focus on the sections you find confusing. Many people also take practice tests online through the Division's website, which show you the types of questions you will see on test day. You can retake the written test if you fail, but you have to pay the license fee again and schedule another appointment.
On test day, arrive 15 minutes early. Bring all your documents, your Social Security number, and your signature. The test is given on a computer at the office, and you get your score when ready. If you pass, the examiner schedules your driving test and tells you what to bring.
Scheduling and taking the driving test
After you pass the written test, you schedule the driving test at the same office or online through the Division's website. Tests are usually available within a few days to a few weeks, depending on how busy the office is. You can choose a time that works for your schedule.
For the driving test, bring your temporary written test pass, proof of insurance for the vehicle you will drive, and the vehicle itself. The vehicle must be in safe working condition — working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. If you do not have your own vehicle, some Driver License Division offices have vehicles you can use for a fee, usually around $10 to $15; call ahead to confirm availability.
The examiner drives with you and watches you perform tasks like starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and merging. The test usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes. You need to demonstrate that you can control the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you have to schedule another appointment and pay the license fee again.
What happens after you pass the driving test
Once you pass the driving test, the examiner issues you a temporary license valid for 30 days. This temporary license has the same legal weight as a permanent license — you can drive with it, and police will accept it as proof you are licensed. The permanent plastic card is mailed to your address within two to three weeks.
If you move before the permanent card arrives, contact the Driver License Division to update your address so the card goes to the right place. If the card does not arrive within four weeks, call the Division to report it and request a replacement.
Where to find a Driver License Division office near you
Utah has Driver License Division offices in most cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you, check its hours, and schedule an appointment on the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles website. Some offices are busier than others; offices in smaller towns often have shorter wait times than those in Salt Lake City or other large cities.
You can schedule your written test appointment online or by phone. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but you may wait longer. Calling ahead or booking online is faster and more reliable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online or by mail?
No. Utah requires you to take the written test in person at a Driver License Division office. You cannot take it online, by mail, or through any other method.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it. You schedule another appointment at the office, bring your documents again, and pay the license fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you pay the fee each time.
Do I need to bring my own car for the driving test?
You can bring your own vehicle if it is insured and in safe working condition. If you do not have a car, some Driver License Division offices have vehicles available for a small fee — call the office nearest you to ask if they offer this and what the cost is.
How long is a Utah driver's license valid?
You can choose a four-year license for $33 or an eight-year license for $66. Both are valid for driving during that time. You renew by visiting an office again or, in some cases, by mail or online if you meet certain requirements.
What if I move to a different address before my permanent card arrives?
Contact the Driver License Division and give them your new address. They will make sure the permanent card is sent to the correct location. You can update your address on the Division's website or by calling the office.