What the Utah Driver License Division does and how to reach them
The Utah Driver License Division is the state agency that issues driver licenses, renews them, and handles the written and road tests you need to pass. They are part of the Utah Department of Public Safety. If you need a new license, want to renew one that is expiring, or need to update information on an existing license, you will work with this division either in person at a local office or online for certain transactions.
The division runs multiple offices across Utah. The main office is in Salt Lake City, but you can also visit a local Driver License Division office in your county. You can find the office nearest you and their hours on the Utah Department of Public Safety website. Many routine tasks—like renewing a license that is not expired yet—can be done online through their website, which saves you a trip.
Key Takeaways
- The Utah Driver License Division issues and renews driver licenses and handles testing; you can reach them through local offices or online at the Department of Public Safety website.
- You will need a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to get a new license or renew an existing one.
- Renewing online is faster than visiting an office if your license is still valid and you have not changed your address or other key information.
- If you need to take the written test or road test, you must do so in person at a Driver License Division office.
- Fees vary depending on the type of license and how long it is valid for; check the division's website for current pricing.
Getting a new Utah driver license for the first time
If you are getting your first driver license in Utah, you will need to visit a Driver License Division office in person. Bring a valid form of identification (such as a passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state driver license), proof that you live in Utah (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address), and your Social Security number or a document showing it.
You will take the written test at the office. This test covers Utah traffic laws and safe driving practices. Once you pass the written test, you can schedule a road test, which you will also take in person. After you pass both tests, the division will issue your license. The whole process typically takes more than one visit, so plan for at least two trips to an office.
Renewing your Utah driver license
If your license is still valid and you have not moved or changed your name, you can renew online through the Utah Department of Public Safety website. Online renewal is faster and you do not have to visit an office. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a payment method. The renewal is valid for a set number of years depending on your age and the type of license you hold.
If your license has already expired, or if you have moved, changed your name, or need to update other information, you must renew in person at a Driver License Division office. Bring your expired license, proof of your new address if you have moved, and any documents showing a name change (such as a marriage certificate). The office will take a new photo and issue your renewed license on the spot or mail it to you within a few business days.
Updating your address or other information on your license
If you move to a new address in Utah, you can update your driver license information online if your license is still valid. Go to the Utah Department of Public Safety website, log in with your license number and Social Security number, and follow the steps to change your address. You do not need to pay a fee for an address change done online.
If you need to change your name, add or remove a middle name, or update other details beyond your address, you will need to visit a Driver License Division office in person. Bring documents that support the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your record and may issue a new license with your photo.
Taking the written and road tests
The written test covers Utah traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules. You can take practice tests on the Utah Department of Public Safety website before you go to the office. The test is given on a computer at the Driver License Division office, and you must pass it before you can take the road test.
The road test is conducted by a Driver License Division examiner who rides with you in your vehicle. You will be tested on basic driving skills, following traffic laws, and responding to road conditions. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you fail either test, you can retake it, though there may be a waiting period and an additional fee.
Documents you will need for different transactions
| Transaction | Documents Needed | Can You Do It Online? |
|---|---|---|
| First-time license | Valid ID, proof of residency, Social Security number | No — must visit office for tests |
| Renew valid license (no changes) | Driver license number, last four digits of Social Security number | Yes |
| Renew expired license or update info | Expired license, proof of new address (if moved), name change documents (if applicable) | No — must visit office |
| Change address only | Driver license number, last four digits of Social Security number | Yes |
| Change name | Current license, marriage certificate or court order | No — must visit office |
Fees and how long things take
Driver license fees in Utah depend on the type of license and how long it is valid for. A standard driver license costs less than a commercial driver license. Renewal fees are typically lower than the fee for a new license. The Utah Department of Public Safety website lists current fees for each type of transaction.
If you renew online, your new license is usually mailed to you within five to ten business days. If you renew or get a new license in person at an office, you may receive it the same day or it may be mailed to you. If you fail a test and need to retake it, there is usually a waiting period of a few days before you can schedule your next attempt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the nearest Driver License Division office to me?
Visit the Utah Department of Public Safety website and use their office locator tool. Enter your city or county and the tool will show you the nearest office, its address, phone number, and hours. Many offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments.
Can I renew my license by mail?
No, Utah does not offer mail-in renewal. You can renew online if your license is still valid and you have not moved or changed your name. Otherwise, you must visit an office in person.
What should I do if I lost my driver license?
Visit a Driver License Division office and report it lost. Bring a valid form of identification and proof of residency. The office will issue a replacement license. There is a fee for a replacement, which is typically less than the cost of a new license.
How do I know if I need to take the road test again?
You only need to take the road test if you are getting your first license or if your license was suspended or revoked. If you are straightforward renewing an existing valid license, you do not need to test again.
What if I fail the written or road test?
You can retake the test after a waiting period, which is usually a few days. There is a fee each time you take a test. The Driver License Division office can tell you when you are able to schedule your next attempt and what the fee will be.