What the Vernal Driver's License Division Does

The Vernal Driver's License Division is a Utah Department of Public Safety office that issues driver's licenses, renewal licenses, and identification cards to residents in Uintah County and surrounding areas. It is located in Vernal, Utah, and handles the full licensing process — written tests, vision screening, photograph, and document verification — in one location rather than requiring you to travel to Salt Lake City or another regional office.

This office serves people who live in northeastern Utah and need to obtain a new license, renew an existing one, or replace a lost or damaged card. The division also handles certain medical vision-related licensing matters, including restrictions that may explore if you have vision conditions or have undergone eye surgery.

Key Takeaways

  • The Vernal Driver's License Division is located at 152 East Main Street, Vernal, Utah 84078, and you can reach them at (435) 781-5800 to confirm hours or ask about wait times before you visit.
  • You will need a valid Social Security number, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or previous license) to obtain a new license.
  • Vision screening happens on-site at the division, and if you have had recent eye surgery or have a vision condition, bring documentation from your eye care provider showing you meet Utah's vision standards.
  • Appointment availability varies by season, and walk-ins are accepted but may have longer wait times, so calling ahead to schedule is faster.
  • Renewal by mail or online is available for some drivers, but you must visit in person if your license has expired more than one year or if you have medical vision restrictions.

Documents You Need to Bring

Utah requires specific documents for a new license or renewal. Bring your Social Security number (written down or memorized) and one document proving your identity: a valid passport, certified birth certificate, previous Utah driver's license, or military ID. You will also need proof of residency — a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail — dated within the last 90 days and showing your current address.

If you are renewing and your license is still valid or expired less than one year, you may be able to renew by mail or through the Utah Driver License Division website without visiting Vernal. However, if your license expired more than one year ago, you must appear in person. The same applies if you have medical vision restrictions or have had recent eye surgery — the division needs to conduct vision screening and review your medical documentation.

Vision Screening and Medical Restrictions

The Vernal division performs vision screening as part of the licensing process. Utah law requires that you meet minimum vision standards: corrected or uncorrected vision of at least 20/40 in each eye, or 20/40 in one eye and 20/60 in the other, with a visual field of at least 140 degrees. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you so the screening reflects your corrected vision.

If you have had cataract surgery, LASIK, corneal transplant, or other eye procedures, or if you have a diagnosed vision condition, bring a letter or report from your eye care provider (ophthalmologist or optometrist) stating that you meet Utah's vision standards. The division will review this documentation before issuing or renewing your license. If your vision does not meet the standard, the division may issue a license with restrictions — such as requiring corrective lenses, limiting driving to daylight hours, or restricting highway speeds — rather than denying the license outright.

How to Schedule or Walk In

Call the Vernal Driver's License Division at (435) 781-5800 to ask about appointment availability and current wait times. The office accepts both scheduled appointments and walk-ins, but appointments typically move faster, especially during busy seasons. When you call, have your name and the type of transaction ready (new license, renewal, replacement, or medical vision review).

If you walk in without an appointment, arrive early in the day — wait times tend to be shorter in the morning. The office is located at 152 East Main Street, Vernal, Utah 84078. Confirm the current hours before you visit, as they may vary by season or due to staffing. Bring all required documents with you; if you are missing any, the division will not be able to process your request and you will need to return.

What Happens During Your Visit

When you arrive, you will check in and submit your documents for verification. A staff member will review your identity and residency proof, confirm your Social Security number, and ask you to complete an process form. You will then proceed to vision screening, where you will read an eye chart or use a vision testing machine. If you wear glasses or contacts, you will be screened with them on.

After vision screening, you will have your photograph taken for the license. The photo must meet specific requirements — no sunglasses, no hats (unless for religious reasons), and a neutral background. You will also take a written test if you are obtaining a license for the first time or if your license has been suspended or revoked. Once all steps are complete, you will pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

Fees and Payment Methods

Driver's license fees in Utah vary depending on the type of transaction and the length of validity. A new license or renewal typically costs between $30 and $50, though the exact amount depends on whether you are renewing for four or eight years. Replacement licenses (for lost, stolen, or damaged cards) usually cost around $20. The Vernal division accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card.

If you are uncertain about the exact fee for your transaction, call ahead at (435) 781-5800 and ask. Fees can change, and knowing the amount in advance means you can bring the correct payment and avoid delays.

If You Have Medical Vision Concerns

If you have a vision condition, have had eye surgery, or are unsure whether you meet Utah's vision standards, contact your eye care provider before visiting the division. Ask them to provide a letter or report confirming that you meet the state's minimum vision requirements. Bring this documentation with you to your appointment — it will speed up the process and reduce the chance that the division will need to contact your provider separately.

If the division determines that you do not meet the standard vision requirements, you will have the opportunity to provide additional medical documentation or request a review. You can also ask whether restrictions (such as corrective lens requirements or daylight-only driving) would allow you to obtain a license. The division's goal is to issue a license that reflects your actual driving capability, not to deny licensing outright if there is a safe path forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail if I live in Vernal?

Yes, if your license is still valid or expired less than one year and you have no medical vision restrictions. You can renew by mail or online through the Utah Driver License Division website. If your license expired more than one year ago or you have medical restrictions, you must visit the Vernal division in person.

What if I fail the vision screening?

The division will inform you of the result and explain your options. You may be able to obtain a license with restrictions, or you may be asked to have your eye care provider submit additional documentation. If you disagree with the screening result, you can request that your own eye care provider's report be reviewed.

How long does it take to get a license after my visit?

You will receive a temporary paper license on the day of your visit that is valid for driving when ready. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. If you need the plastic license sooner, call the division to ask whether expedited processing is available.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

Both are accepted. Appointments are faster and recommended, especially during busy times. Call (435) 781-5800 to schedule. Walk-ins are welcome but may have longer waits, particularly in the afternoon or on certain days of the week.

What if I have had LASIK or cataract surgery?

Bring a letter from your eye care provider confirming that your vision meets Utah's standards after surgery. The division will review this before issuing your license. Most people who have had these procedures and have healed properly will meet the requirements, but documentation from your provider speeds up the process.