What you need to get a Utah driver license
Utah issues driver licenses through the Driver License Division, which operates under the state's Department of Public Safety. To get your first license or renew an existing one, you will need to visit a Driver License office in person — you cannot complete the entire process online or by mail.
The documents you bring depend on whether you are getting your first license or renewing. For a first-time license, you need proof of identity (a passport, certified birth certificate, or consular report of birth), 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 are renewing, you can often bring just your current license and pay the renewal fee, though the state may ask for updated residency proof if your address has changed.
You will also need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision screening, and a driving test (unless you are renewing and have no violations or suspensions). The written test is offered in English and several other languages.
Key Takeaways
- Utah driver licenses are issued by the Driver License Division under the Department of Public Safety, and you must visit an office in person to obtain or renew one.
- First-time applicants need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Utah residency; renewals typically require only your current license and the renewal fee.
- You must pass a written test, vision screening, and driving test to get your first license; renewals may skip the driving test if you have a clean record.
- Utah offers written tests in multiple languages, and you can schedule your appointment online through the Driver License Division website to reduce wait times.
- A standard Utah driver license is valid for eight years; you can renew up to one year before expiration.
Where to find a Driver License office and how to schedule
The Driver License Division operates offices in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, St. George, Moab, Vernal, and several smaller cities. You can find the full list of locations, hours, and current wait times on the Utah Department of Public Safety website. Many offices now allow you to schedule an appointment online, which significantly reduces your wait time compared to walk-ins.
To schedule online, visit the Driver License Division's appointment system, select your preferred location and date, and choose the service you need (new license, renewal, duplicate, or test retake). If you cannot schedule online or prefer to walk in, arrive early — offices typically have the shortest lines in the morning and on weekdays rather than weekends.
If you live in a rural area far from an office, some counties offer mobile services or satellite locations on certain days. Contact your local county clerk's office to ask whether a mobile unit serves your area.
Costs and how long a license lasts
A standard Utah driver license costs $35 and is valid for eight years from the date of issue. If you renew before your current license expires, the new license will be valid for eight years from the renewal date, not from your original issue date. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires.
If you need a duplicate license (because yours was lost, stolen, or damaged), the cost is $15. A name change due to marriage or court order requires a new license and costs $35; you will need to bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order along with your current license.
Utah also offers a Real ID-compliant driver license, which costs the same as a standard license but requires additional documentation (a certified birth certificate or passport instead of just a birth certificate). A Real ID license is required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings as of May 2025, though standard licenses remain valid for driving and other purposes.
What happens if your license expires or is suspended
If your license expires, you can still renew it at any Driver License office, but you cannot legally drive until the renewal is complete. If your license has been suspended or revoked due to unpaid traffic tickets, DUI convictions, or other violations, you must resolve the underlying issue before you can renew. This typically means paying outstanding fines, completing a DUI education program, or waiting out a suspension period set by the court.
To find out whether your license is suspended or revoked, contact the Driver License Division directly or check the status through the Utah Department of Public Safety website. If you have questions about why your license was suspended, the Driver License Division can provide details and tell you what steps you need to take to restore it.
If you are caught driving with a suspended or revoked license, you face criminal charges and additional fines. It is worth resolving the suspension before you drive again.
Renewing by mail or online
Utah does not allow full online renewal of driver licenses. However, if your license is not expiring for at least six months and you have no violations or suspensions, you may be able to renew by mail. To use mail renewal, you must request it through the Driver License Division — you cannot straightforward mail in your license and payment.
To request mail renewal, contact the Driver License Division by phone or visit an office in person and ask whether you are may be able to access. If approved, you will receive a renewal packet by mail. You complete the form, include payment, and mail it back. Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the division receives your packet.
For most people, visiting an office in person or scheduling an online appointment is faster and more straightforward than mail renewal. The appointment system has reduced wait times significantly at most locations.
Changing your address, name, or license class
If you move to a new address within Utah, you can update your address at any Driver License office without renewing your entire license. Bring your current license and proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). The address change is free and takes a few minutes.
If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you need a new license. Bring your current license and a certified copy of the document that proves the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The cost is $35, the same as a renewal.
If you want to upgrade your license class (for example, from a standard license to a commercial driver license), you must pass additional written and driving tests specific to that class. Contact the Driver License Division to learn what tests you need and how to schedule them.
What to expect during your visit
When you arrive at a Driver License office, check in at the front desk and provide your appointment confirmation or tell staff that you are a walk-in. You will be called to a window when it is your turn. The staff member will review your documents, ask you to sign a form, and take your photograph and fingerprints for your new license.
If you are taking a written test, you will be directed to a testing station where you will answer questions on a computer or paper form. The test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment.
If you are taking a driving test, an examiner will ride with you in your vehicle and evaluate your ability to start, stop, turn, park, and respond to traffic. The test typically lasts 15 to 20 minutes. If you pass, your new license will be mailed to you within one to two weeks. If you fail, you can schedule another test appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Utah driver license if I live out of state?
No. Utah requires you to renew in person at a Driver License office. If you have moved out of state, you should obtain a driver license from your new state of residence. If you are temporarily out of state but still a Utah resident, you can renew when you return or contact the Driver License Division to ask about options.
What if I fail the written or driving test?
You can retake the test the same day at most offices, or you can schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake a test. You have three attempts to pass the written test before you must wait one week before trying again. For the driving test, you can retake it as often as needed.
How do I know if I need a Real ID license?
A Real ID license is required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. If you fly or visit federal facilities, you need a Real ID license or a passport. A standard Utah driver license is sufficient for driving and most other purposes. Real ID licenses cost the same as standard licenses but require a certified birth certificate or passport as proof of identity.
What if my documents are from another country?
If you are a non-citizen, you can obtain a Utah driver license if you have a valid visa or other immigration status. Bring your passport, visa, and proof of Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The Driver License Division can tell you which documents are acceptable for your specific immigration status.
Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my new one?
Yes. After you pass your tests and complete your visit, the Driver License Division will issue you a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days while your permanent license is being mailed. The temporary license has the same legal status as a permanent license for driving purposes.