Where the Salt Lake City Driver's License Division is located and what it handles

The Salt Lake City Driver's License Division is part of the Utah Department of Public Safety. It is located at 215 South State Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, and it is the office that issues driver's licenses, identification cards, and renewal documents for residents in Salt Lake County and surrounding areas. This is a state office, not a city office, even though it sits in Salt Lake City.

The division handles new licenses, renewals, replacements for lost or damaged cards, address changes, and name changes on your license or ID. If you need a medical or vision-related restriction on your license — such as corrective lenses required, hearing aid required, or automatic transmission only — you will work with this office to document those restrictions.

You can also reach the division by phone at 801-538-3800 to ask about hours, required documents, or to schedule an appointment. Utah now requires appointments for most transactions, so calling ahead or booking online through the Utah Driver License Division website is faster than walking in.

Key Takeaways

  • The Salt Lake City Driver's License Division is at 215 South State Street and handles all driver's licenses and state ID cards for the region.
  • You must bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number; the exact documents depend on whether you are getting a new license or renewing.
  • Medical or vision restrictions are added to your license based on your medical history, test results, or a doctor's statement — the division does not make the medical information itself.
  • Appointments are required for most services and can be booked online or by calling 801-538-3800.
  • Processing times vary: a standard license takes about two weeks by mail, while a Real ID-compliant license takes longer because it requires additional proof of citizenship.

Documents you need to bring for a new license or ID

For a new driver's license or state ID, bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Acceptable forms of identity include a valid passport, a military ID, a previous Utah driver's license, or a certified birth certificate. If you do not have one of these, ask the division which alternatives they will accept — the list can vary.

Proof of residency means a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your current address. A bank statement or insurance document with your name and address also works. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. If you do not have your card, a document from the Social Security Administration or a paystub showing your full number will work.

How medical and vision restrictions are recorded on your license

Medical and vision restrictions appear on your license as codes — for example, "01" means corrective lenses required, "02" means hearing aid required, and "03" means automatic transmission only. The division does not decide whether you need a restriction. Instead, a doctor, optometrist, or the division's medical review officer makes that information based on your medical history or test results.

If you are renewing your license and had a restriction before, the division will ask whether the restriction still applies. If you have a new medical condition or vision change, tell the division staff when you arrive. They may ask you to have a doctor complete a medical form or to take a vision test at the office. Some restrictions require a doctor's signed statement; others can be determined by a straightforward eye exam.

If you disagree with a restriction, you can request a hearing before the division's medical review officer. The division will explain the process and timeline when they add the restriction to your record.

Real ID versus standard driver's license: what the difference means for you

Utah offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID-compliant license. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal standards for identification. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID license or a passport to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.

Getting a Real ID license takes longer because you must prove citizenship. Bring your passport, a certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, or a permanent resident card. The division will make a copy and keep it on file. Processing time for a Real ID is typically four to six weeks by mail.

A standard license does not require proof of citizenship and processes faster — usually two weeks — but you will not be able to use it for federal purposes after May 2025. If you are not sure which one you need, ask the division staff when you call to book your appointment.

How to renew your license by mail or in person

If your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions to update, you can renew by mail. The division will send you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. Follow the instructions on the notice, include the required documents, and mail it to the address listed. Renewal by mail takes about two weeks.

If your license is expired, you have medical restrictions to update, or you are changing your name or address, you must renew in person at the division office. Book an appointment online or call 801-538-3800. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and any medical documents if your restrictions have changed. In-person renewal usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.

If you are over 65, you may be able to renew for a longer period — sometimes up to eight years instead of five. Ask about this when you renew.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked for medical reasons

The division can suspend or revoke your license if a doctor reports a medical condition that makes driving unsafe, or if you fail a vision or medical test. You will receive a notice in the mail explaining the reason and your right to request a hearing.

To get your license back, you must provide medical clearance from a doctor. The division will tell you what form the doctor needs to complete and what conditions must be met before you can drive again. Some suspensions are temporary — for example, if you had surgery and need time to recover. Others require ongoing treatment or monitoring.

You have the right to request a hearing before the division's medical review officer if you disagree with the suspension or revocation. The notice will explain how to request a hearing and the important date to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license if I have a medical condition?

Yes. Most medical conditions do not prevent you from getting a license. The division will add a restriction to your license if needed — for example, corrective lenses or automatic transmission only. You may need to provide a doctor's statement or pass a vision test, but having a condition does not automatically disqualify you.

How long does it take to get a new license after I explore?

A standard license takes about two weeks by mail. A Real ID license takes four to six weeks because it requires proof of citizenship. If you need the license faster, ask the division whether they offer expedited processing or whether you can pick it up in person instead of waiting for mail delivery.

What if I moved and need to update my address on my license?

You can update your address by mail or in person. If you renew by mail, include your new address on the renewal form. If you update in person, bring proof of your new residency and your current license. Address changes usually process within two weeks.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Salt Lake City Driver's License Division?

Yes, appointments are required for most services. You can book online through the Utah Driver License Division website or call 801-538-3800. Walk-ins are not accepted, so calling ahead is necessary.

What if my doctor says I should not drive because of a medical condition?

Tell the division when ready. Your doctor can report the condition directly to the division, or you can report it yourself. The division will review your medical information and may suspend your license while you recover or receive treatment. Once your doctor clears you to drive, you can request reinstatement.