Documents you must bring to the DMV
To get a Utah driver's license, you need to bring three categories of documents to your local Driver License Division office: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. The state has specific documents it accepts for each category, and you cannot substitute one for another.
For proof of identity, bring a current or expired U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate with a raised seal, a valid foreign passport, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. If you use a birth certificate, it must be an official copy with the state seal — a photocopy or hospital-issued certificate will not work.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax notice, or government mail addressed to you at your current Utah address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works if it meets these requirements.
For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can request a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate with a raised seal), not a photocopy.
- Proof of residency must be dated within the last 60 days and show both your name and your current Utah address.
- You need proof of your Social Security number, which can be your card, a tax form, or a letter from Social Security if you are not may be able to access for a number.
- The written test covers traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official Utah Driver Handbook, available free online or at any Driver License Division office.
- You must pass a vision screening at the DMV, so bring your glasses or contacts if you use them to drive.
The written test and what it covers
Before you receive your license, you must pass a written test on Utah traffic laws and road signs. The test has 25 questions, and you need to answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You get one attempt per visit, though you can return on another day if you do not pass.
The test covers rules of the road (speed limits, right-of-way, parking), traffic signs and their meanings, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Utah Driver Handbook, which the state publishes free online at the Driver License Division website. The handbook is also available in print at any Driver License Division office. Many people find it helpful to read through the handbook once, then take practice tests online before their test day.
You will take the test on a computer at the DMV. The questions are multiple choice. If you do not pass, you can schedule another test appointment, usually within a few days.
Vision screening and the road test
At your DMV appointment, you will have your vision screened. You must be able to see 20/40 or better in each eye, with or without correction. If you wear glasses or contacts to drive, bring them with you — the screener will test you while wearing them. If you fail the vision screening, you cannot receive your license that day and will need to see an eye doctor before returning.
After you pass the written test and vision screening, you must pass a road test to show that you can drive safely. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks like starting the car, turning, parking, and stopping. The road test usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You must use a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current and in the car during the test.
If you are under 18, Utah has additional requirements. You must hold a learner's permit for at least 6 months and have a licensed adult in the car with you during the road test.
Fees and how long the process takes
A Utah driver's license costs money, and the amount depends on how long you want the license to be valid. A 5-year license costs less than an 8-year license. The Driver License Division website lists current fees, which change occasionally. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the DMV.
The entire process — documents, written test, vision screening, and road test — usually takes one to two hours on the day of your appointment. However, getting an appointment can take weeks during busy seasons. You can schedule your appointment online through the Utah Driver License Division website or by calling your local office. Some offices have walk-in hours, but wait times are often long.
After you pass all tests, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
If you already have a license from another state
If you hold a valid driver's license from another state or country, you do not need to take the written test or road test. You still need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. You will still have your vision screened. The DMV will convert your out-of-state license to a Utah license, and you will pay the same fee as a new license holder.
If your out-of-state license has expired, you will need to take the written test and road test as if you were a new driver. Bring your expired license along with your other documents.
Special situations and restrictions
If you are under 18, you must first hold a learner's permit for at least 6 months before you can take the road test. To get a learner's permit, you need the same documents as for a license, plus you must pass the written test and vision screening. A learner's permit allows you to drive only with a licensed adult in the car. Once you have held the permit for 6 months, you can schedule your road test.
If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive, you may need a doctor's statement. The DMV will tell you if one is required based on your situation. Some conditions may result in restrictions on your license — for example, you might be required to wear glasses or to drive only during daylight hours.
If you have had your license suspended or revoked in Utah or another state, you will need to resolve that before the DMV will issue you a new license. Contact the Driver License Division to find out what steps you need to take.
Where to go and how to prepare
Utah has Driver License Division offices in most cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Driver License Division website. Some offices are busier than others — offices in larger cities often have longer wait times. If you live in a rural area, you may need to travel to the nearest office, which could be 30 minutes or more away.
Before your appointment, gather all your documents and make copies of them for your records. Bring the originals to the DMV. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you have time to check in. Bring your Social Security card or other proof of your number — do not rely on memory. If you are taking the road test, make sure your vehicle is clean, safe, and has current registration and insurance.
If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it online or by phone so someone else can use that time slot. Canceling ahead is faster than not showing up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?
No. Your birth certificate must be an official certified copy with a raised seal from the state vital records office. Hospital-issued birth certificates and photocopies are not accepted. If you do not have a certified copy, you can order one from the state where you were born.
What if I fail the written test?
You can take the test again, usually within a few days. You do not need to reschedule your entire appointment — just return to the DMV and pay the test fee again. Most people pass on their second attempt after studying the handbook more carefully.
Do I need to take the road test if I already have a license from another state?
No, if your out-of-state license is still valid. You will only need to bring your documents, pass the vision screening, and pay the fee to convert it to a Utah license. If your out-of-state license has expired, you will need to take both the written and road tests.
How long does a Utah driver's license last?
You can choose a 5-year or 8-year license when you explore. The 8-year license costs more but lasts longer. You will need to renew your license when it expires by visiting the DMV again.
What should I bring to the road test?
Bring your learner's permit or temporary license, proof of insurance for the vehicle, the vehicle's registration, and your glasses or contacts if you use them to drive. The vehicle must be in safe working condition with working lights, brakes, and wipers.