Getting a new Utah driver's license means visiting a Driver License Division office in person, bringing the right documents, and passing a written test and vision screening

You cannot renew or obtain a Utah driver's license online or by mail. The state requires you to appear at a Driver License Division office, show original documents that prove your identity and residency, pass a written knowledge test, and pass a vision test. The whole process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes if you bring everything the first time.

A new license costs $32 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license. You can choose which length when you explore. If you are under 21, the license is a different color and has different restrictions on when you can drive.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver License Division office in person with original documents proving identity and Utah residency.
  • You will take a written test about traffic laws and a vision test at the office before your license is issued.
  • A four-year license costs $32 and an eight-year license costs $64; you choose the length when you explore.
  • The Driver License Division has offices in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, St. George, Moab, Vernal, and Price, with varying hours.

Documents you need to bring

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves you live in Utah. For identity, the state accepts a valid passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a tribal ID. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government document with your current Utah address on it. The residency document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.

You also need your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security card, you can bring a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form instead. Bring the original documents, not copies. If your name has changed since your identity document was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 25 questions about Utah traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 20 questions correctly to pass. The test covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean. You can take the test in English or Spanish.

The Driver License Division provides a study guide online at dmv.utah.gov that shows the exact topics and sample questions. Most people study the guide for a few hours before their appointment. If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day at no extra cost, but you must wait at least one hour between attempts.

Vision screening and other tests

You will take a vision test at the office using a machine that checks how well you see at different distances. You must see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear glasses or contacts to drive, you must wear them during the test, and your license will note that you must wear them while driving.

If you fail the vision test, the office will not issue your license that day. You will need to see an eye doctor, get a form signed by the doctor saying you can drive safely, and return to the office with that form. There is no extra fee to retest your vision once you have the doctor's form.

Where to go and how to make an appointment

The Driver License Division has seven offices across Utah: Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, St. George, Moab, Vernal, and Price. You can walk in without an appointment, but wait times vary widely. The Salt Lake City office is usually the busiest. Making an appointment online at dmv.utah.gov takes about five minutes and lets you choose your date and time. Appointments are available up to 30 days in advance.

Office hours vary by location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but some close for lunch. The St. George office has extended hours on some evenings. Check the website for the specific office you plan to visit before you go.

What happens after you pass

Once you pass the written test and vision screening, the office will take your photo and issue your license on the spot. You will walk out with your new license the same day. If you chose a four-year license, it will expire four years from the date you receive it. If you chose an eight-year license, it will expire eight years from that date.

Your license will have your photo, name, address, date of birth, and a license number. If you are under 21, the license will be a vertical card instead of horizontal, and it will show the date you turn 21. Drivers under 21 also have restrictions on when they can drive and how many passengers they can have.

If you are under 18

If you are under 18, you must have a parent or legal guardian sign a consent form at the office. You also need to show proof that you have completed a driver education course or a behind-the-wheel training program. The course can be taken through a high school, a private driving school, or online. Bring the certificate of completion with you.

Drivers under 18 receive a provisional license with restrictions. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work or school. You can have only one passenger under 21 in the car unless a parent or guardian is also in the car. These restrictions stay in place until you turn 18.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Real ID driver's license in Utah?

Yes. A Real ID license has a gold star in the top right corner and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. It costs the same as a regular license and requires the same documents, plus proof of your Social Security number. You can request a Real ID when you explore.

What if I lost my documents or do not have them?

Contact the Driver License Division office before you go. They can tell you which alternative documents they will accept. For example, if you do not have a birth certificate, you may be able to bring a passport or military ID instead. Some documents take longer to obtain, so plan ahead.

Do I have to take the written test if I already have a license from another state?

Yes. Utah requires all new drivers to pass the written test, even if you have a valid license from another state. You do not have to take the test if you are renewing a Utah license you already hold. The test is the same for everyone.

How long is my license valid?

You choose when you explore: four years for $32 or eight years for $64. Your license will show the expiration date. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, either in person at an office or online if you meet certain requirements.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at no extra cost, but you must wait at least one hour. You can take the test as many times as you need. Most people pass on the second attempt after studying the guide more carefully.