What you need to know about Utah driver's licenses
A Utah driver's license is issued by the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and serves as your legal permission to drive in the state. To get one, you will need to pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision screening, and a driving test — unless you are renewing an existing license or transferring one from another state. The process takes place at a DMV office, and you cannot complete it online or by mail.
Utah issues different types of licenses depending on your age and driving history. A standard license is valid for eight years if you are over 21, and four years if you are under 21. If you are under 18, you will go through a graduated licensing system with restrictions that ease over time.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Utah DMV office in person to take the written test, vision screening, and driving test — there is no online or mail option.
- Bring your Social Security number, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of lawful presence in the United States.
- The written test covers Utah traffic laws and safe driving practices; you can study using the official Utah Driver Handbook available on the DMV website.
- Standard licenses are valid for eight years if you are 21 or older, and four years if you are under 21.
- If you already have a valid license from another state, you may be able to transfer it without retaking the written and driving tests.
Documents you need to bring to the DMV
Utah requires specific documents before you can test for a driver's license. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued identity document. You will also need to show proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return all work.
Proof of residency is required next. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Utah address will satisfy this. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person at the DMV office.
If you were not born in the United States, bring documentation of lawful presence — a green card, visa, employment authorization document, or other federal immigration document. Without this, you cannot be issued a license.
The written test and what it covers
The written test has 40 questions about Utah traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DMV office, and you can take it in English or Spanish.
The Utah Driver Handbook, available free on the DMV website, covers all the material on the test. It includes sections on right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, driving under the influence, and what different road signs mean. Most people study the handbook for a few days before taking the test.
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you will pay the test fee each time you take it.
The vision screening and driving test
After you pass the written test, you will have your vision screened at the DMV office. The screener will check that you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — your license will note that you must wear them while driving.
The driving test comes next. A DMV examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you arrange) while you drive on local roads for about 15 to 20 minutes. The examiner watches how you handle turns, stops, parking, and how you respond to traffic. You must demonstrate safe driving habits and follow all traffic laws during the test.
If you do not pass the driving test, you can schedule another one. There is typically a waiting period of a few days to a week before you can retake it, depending on how busy your local DMV office is.
Transferring a license from another state
If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to retake the written and driving tests. Instead, you can transfer your license to Utah by visiting a DMV office with your out-of-state license and proof of Utah residency. The DMV will issue you a Utah license valid for the same length of time as your previous license had remaining.
You will still need to pass the vision screening. If your out-of-state license has been suspended or revoked, or if you have serious traffic violations on your record, Utah may require you to retake the written test or driving test before issuing a new license.
Graduated licensing for drivers under 18
Utah has a three-stage graduated licensing system for drivers under 18. The first stage is a learner's permit, which allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat. You must hold the permit for at least six months and be at least 15 years old to get one.
The second stage is an intermediate license, which you can get after holding the learner's permit for six months and passing the driving test. With an intermediate license, you can drive alone, but you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot have passengers under 18 in the car unless a parent or guardian is present.
The third stage is a full license, which you receive when you turn 18 or after holding the intermediate license for one year, whichever comes later. At that point, all restrictions are removed.
Finding a DMV office and scheduling your test
Utah has DMV offices in most cities and counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Utah DMV website, which also lists the hours each office is open. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can help you plan your visit.
You do not need to schedule an appointment for the written test or vision screening — you can walk in during business hours. However, the driving test does require an appointment. You can schedule one online through the DMV website or by calling your local office. Appointments typically fill up several weeks in advance, so plan ahead if you have a important date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Utah driver's license cost?
The fee varies depending on the type of license and how long it is valid for. A standard eight-year license for someone 21 or older costs less than a four-year license for someone under 21. The DMV website lists current fees, and you can also call your local office to ask.
Can I renew my license online or by mail?
No. All renewals must be done in person at a DMV office. You will need to pass a vision screening again, and if your license has been expired for more than one year, you may have to retake the written test.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can schedule another driving test appointment. There is usually a waiting period of a few days to a week before you can retake it. You do not have to retake the written test or vision screening unless the DMV tells you to.
Do I need a Social Security number to get a Utah driver's license?
Yes. You must provide your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you do not have a Social Security number. Bring documentation of whichever number you have.
Can I get a Real ID-compliant license in Utah?
Yes. A Real ID license meets federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings. You can request one when you get your license or renew it. It costs more than a standard license and requires additional documentation, such as proof of your address.