What documents and information you need before you start
Utah requires you to bring specific documents in person to a Driver License Division office. You cannot renew by mail or online, even if your license is not yet expired. The state needs to verify your identity and take a new photo, so there is no shortcut around an office visit.
Bring your current Utah driver license or a valid passport. If you do not have either, you will need a certified birth certificate plus one additional document that shows your name and date of birth — a Social Security card, marriage certificate, or court order all work. You also need proof of your Social Security number: your Social Security card itself, a W-2, or a 1099 form.
Bring proof of your current Utah address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work. If you have moved recently and your documents do not yet show your new address, bring a letter from your landlord or a utility company confirmation email.
Key Takeaways
- You must renew in person at a Driver License Division office; there is no mail or online renewal option in Utah.
- Bring your current license or passport, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address dated within 60 days.
- Your renewal is valid for eight years if you are under 65, or four years if you are 65 or older.
- The renewal fee is $35 for an eight-year license or $20 for a four-year license, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
- Processing takes about 15 minutes at the office, and your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
How to find your nearest Driver License Division office and hours
Utah operates Driver License Division offices in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, St. George, Moab, Vernal, and Price. You do not need an appointment — offices operate on a walk-in basis. Most locations are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some close for lunch between noon and 1 p.m.
The main office is located at 1095 Motor Avenue in Salt Lake City. If you live outside the Salt Lake Valley, check the Utah Driver License Division website for the office nearest you and confirm its hours before you go, because some regional offices have shorter hours or different schedules. A few offices close on certain days or have seasonal hours.
Bring all your documents in one trip. If you are missing even one required document, the office will not process your renewal and you will have to return. The staff cannot tell you over the phone whether your specific documents will work — they will only know once they see them in person.
The renewal fee and what happens if your license is already expired
The renewal fee is $35 for an eight-year license if you are under 65 years old. If you are 65 or older, you can choose a four-year license for $20 instead. You pay at the office when you submit your documents — cash, check, debit card, and credit card are all accepted.
If your license has already expired, you can still renew it using the same process and documents. There is no penalty for renewing after expiration, and you do not need to take a written test or driving test. However, you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives, so plan your office visit before your current license expires if possible.
If your license expired more than three years ago, contact the Driver License Division office directly before you go, because the state may require additional steps. Most offices can tell you over the phone whether your situation needs special handling.
What to expect during your office visit
The staff will verify your documents, confirm your address, and ask you to sign a form. They will take a new photograph for your license. The entire process takes about 15 minutes. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed to you.
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The envelope will come from the Utah Driver License Division and will contain your new license and a receipt. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the Driver License Division to report it.
If you need to drive before your new license arrives, the temporary paper license is valid everywhere a regular license is valid — you can use it at traffic stops, to rent a car, or to board a domestic flight. Keep it with you until your permanent license arrives.
Vision test requirements and medical conditions
Utah requires a vision screening at the time of renewal. The office will test your vision using a machine. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test. If you fail the vision screening, the office will not renew your license until you provide a vision test result from an eye doctor.
If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive — such as seizures, severe hearing loss, or certain medications — you may need a medical evaluation form signed by your doctor. The Driver License Division will tell you if this applies to your situation. You do not need to bring a form preemptively; the office will let you know if one is required after they review your documents.
Renewing with a different name or address
If your name has changed since your last license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will update your name on your new license at no additional cost.
If you have moved to a new address, bring proof of that address as described above. The office will update your address on your new license. If you have moved out of state and no longer live in Utah, you cannot renew a Utah license; you will need to get a license from your new state instead.
What to do if you cannot visit an office in person
Utah does not offer mail renewal or online renewal for any driver. If you are unable to visit an office due to disability or illness, contact the Driver License Division to ask about options. Some offices may be able to discuss your specific situation, but there is no may provide of an alternative process.
If you are a Utah resident living temporarily out of state — for military service, school, or work — you can renew your Utah license by mail only if you are on active military duty. You will need to provide military orders and a notarized affidavit. Contact the Driver License Division for the specific forms and mailing address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. Utah allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires. This can be useful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid a rush closer to your expiration date. The new license will be valid for eight years (or four years if you are 65 or older) from the date you renew, not from your old expiration date.
What if I have a commercial driver license?
Commercial driver licenses follow different renewal rules. You must renew in person, but you may need to take a written test and medical examination depending on the type of commercial license you hold. Contact the Driver License Division or visit their office to confirm what is required for your specific commercial license class.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?
You need proof of your Social Security number, but it does not have to be your card. A W-2, 1099, or other tax document showing your full Social Security number will work. If you do not have any of these, bring your Social Security card.
What happens if I move out of state after I renew?
Your Utah license remains valid until it expires. You can continue to use it in other states. However, if you become a resident of another state, you should get a license from that state. Most states require you to get a local license within 30 to 60 days of establishing residency.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No. You must be present in person at the office to renew. The Driver License Division needs to verify your identity and take a new photograph. No one can do this on your behalf.