How to Get and Renew a Utah Driver's License

What you need to know about Utah driver's licenses

A Utah driver's license is issued by the Driver License Division, part of the Utah Department of Public Safety. You need one to drive legally in Utah, and you'll also use it as a form of identification for many everyday transactions — opening a bank account, voting, or entering federal buildings. Utah issues both standard licenses and REAL ID-compliant licenses, which meet federal requirements for air travel and entry to certain federal facilities.

The process differs depending on whether you're getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged card. Each path has different documents you'll need and different fees. Most transactions happen at a local Driver License Division office, though some renewal options are available online or by mail.

Key Takeaways

Utah issues standard driver's licenses and REAL ID licenses; REAL ID is required for domestic air travel and federal building entry starting May 2025.
First-time applicants must visit a Driver License Division office in person and bring proof of identity, Social Security number, residency, and pass a written test and vision screening.
Renewals can often be done online through the Utah Driver License website if your license is not expired more than five years and you have no medical restrictions.
The standard fee for a five-year license is set by Utah law, and REAL ID licenses cost more; fees vary slightly depending on your age and license type.
You can find your nearest Driver License Division office and check current wait times on the Utah Department of Public Safety website.

Getting your first Utah driver's license

If you're getting a license for the first time, you must visit a Driver License Division office in person. You cannot complete this process online or by mail. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, a birth certificate or passport, and proof of Utah residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed, bring a court order or marriage certificate showing the change.

At the office, you'll take a written test covering Utah traffic laws and road signs, pass a vision screening, and have your photograph taken. You'll also pay the license fee. The office will issue you a temporary paper license on the spot, valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you. Most permanent licenses arrive within two to three weeks.

You can choose between a standard license and a REAL ID license at this time. A REAL ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for air travel and federal building entry. It costs more than a standard license but is increasingly necessary for travel.

Renewing your Utah driver's license online or by mail

If your license is still valid or expired less than five years ago, and you have no medical restrictions or address changes, you may renew online through the Utah Driver License website. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes, and your new card is mailed to your address on file within two to three weeks. You'll pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card.

If you cannot renew online — for example, if your license expired more than five years ago or you need to change your address — you can renew by mail. Request a renewal form from the Driver License Division, complete it, and mail it with a check or money order and a new photograph (passport-style, 2x2 inches). Processing takes about four weeks from the date the office receives your materials.

You can also renew in person at any Driver License Division office. Bring your current license, proof of residency if your address has changed, and payment. In-person renewal is fastest if you need your new license quickly or prefer to handle it face-to-face.

Upgrading to a REAL ID license

A REAL ID license is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings starting May 7, 2025. If you have a standard Utah driver's license and want to upgrade, you can do so at a Driver License Division office. Bring your current license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You'll have a new photograph taken and pay the REAL ID fee, which is higher than a standard license renewal.

You do not need to upgrade if you have a passport or other federal ID, which can be used for air travel instead. However, if you travel frequently by air or enter federal buildings regularly, upgrading to REAL ID is more convenient than carrying a separate document.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, visit a Driver License Division office to request a replacement. Bring your Social Security card or proof of your Social Security number, proof of identity, and proof of residency. You'll have a new photograph taken and pay the replacement fee, which is the same as a renewal fee. Your new card will be mailed to you within two to three weeks.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report the theft to local police and keep a copy of the report for your records. This protects you if someone tries to use your license number fraudulently.

Driver License Division office locations and hours

Utah has Driver License Division offices in most counties. The main office is in Salt Lake City, but you can visit any office to conduct business — you do not have to go to the office in your county. Office hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, with some locations offering limited Saturday hours.

The Utah Department of Public Safety website lists all office locations, hours, and current wait times. Checking wait times before you visit can help you choose the best time to go. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times can vary significantly by time of day and day of week.

Fees and what to expect

Utah driver's license fees are set by state law and vary based on the type of license and how long it's valid. A standard five-year license costs one amount, while a REAL ID license costs more. Licenses for drivers under 21 may have different fees and validity periods. The Driver License Division website lists current fees, which may change annually.

Payment methods accepted at Driver License Division offices include cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you renew by mail, you must send a check or money order. If you renew online, you must use a credit or debit card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Utah driver's license if it expired more than five years ago?

No, you cannot renew online if your license expired more than five years ago. You must renew by mail or in person at a Driver License Division office. In-person renewal is faster — you'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent card within two to three weeks.

Do I need a REAL ID license to fly within the United States?

Starting May 7, 2025, yes — a REAL ID license is required for domestic air travel. If you have a passport, passport card, or other federal ID, you can use that instead. A standard Utah driver's license will no longer be accepted for air travel after that date.

How long does it take to get a Utah driver's license after I explore?

You receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days when ready after your visit to the Driver License Division office. Your permanent card is mailed to you and typically arrives within two to three weeks. Mail-in renewals take about four weeks from the date the office receives your materials.

What if I moved to Utah from another state — do I need to get a new license?

Yes, you must get a Utah driver's license within 60 days of becoming a Utah resident. Visit a Driver License Division office with your out-of-state license, proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of Utah residency. You'll take a vision screening and written test, then receive a temporary license and have your permanent card mailed to you.

Can I change my name on my Utah driver's license without renewing it?

You can request a name change at a Driver License Division office, but you'll need to pay a replacement fee and have a new photograph taken. It's often more cost-effective to wait until your license expires and renew with your new name, unless you need the change when ready for legal or identification purposes.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.