How to Get and Renew a Utah Driver's License

What you need to know about Utah driver's licenses

A Utah driver's license is issued by the Driver License Division, which operates under the Utah Department of Public Safety. You need one to drive legally in Utah, and the state issues both standard licenses and specialized versions like commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) and motorcycle endorsements. The process differs depending on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or moving to Utah from another state.

Utah licenses are valid for eight years for most drivers, though some categories have shorter terms. You can renew in person at a Driver License Division office or online through the state's website if you meet certain conditions. The state also allows you to change your address, add endorsements, or correct information on your license without getting a new one.

Key Takeaways

First-time Utah drivers must pass a written test, vision screening, and driving test at a Driver License Division office; you cannot do this online.
Utah licenses expire eight years from the date of issue, and you can renew online if your license is not suspended and you have not had a name change.
You will need proof of identity, proof of Utah residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to get or renew a license.
If you are moving to Utah from another state, you have 60 days to get a Utah license before driving with an out-of-state license becomes illegal.

Getting your first Utah driver's license

To get your first license, you must visit a Driver License Division office in person. You cannot complete this process online or by mail. Start by bringing proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or certified court document), proof of Utah residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number or ITIN. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process.

At the office, you will take a written test covering traffic laws and road signs. The test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. After passing the written test, you will have your vision screened. If you pass both, you will schedule a driving test, which usually happens within a few days to a few weeks depending on office demand.

During the driving test, an examiner will watch you drive and evaluate your ability to handle basic maneuvers, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. If you pass, you will receive your license on the spot or within a few days. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after waiting at least one day.

Renewing your Utah driver's license online or in person

If your license is not suspended, you have not changed your name, and your license is not expired by more than five years, you can renew online through the Utah Driver License Division website. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method.

If you cannot renew online, you must go to a Driver License Division office. Bring your current license, proof of Utah residency if your address has changed, and payment. In-person renewal usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Utah licenses expire eight years from the date they are issued. The expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so plan ahead to avoid driving with an expired license.

Moving to Utah from another state

If you move to Utah from another state, you have 60 days to get a Utah license. During that 60-day window, your out-of-state license is valid. After 60 days, you must have a Utah license to drive legally in the state.

To convert your out-of-state license to a Utah license, visit a Driver License Division office with your current out-of-state license, proof of Utah residency, and proof of identity. You will not need to retake the written or driving test if your out-of-state license is valid and you are not moving from a country outside the United States. You will have your vision screened, and your new Utah license will be issued the same day or mailed within 7 to 10 business days.

Adding endorsements or changing your license information

An endorsement is a special permission on your license that allows you to drive certain types of vehicles, such as motorcycles or commercial trucks. If you want to add a motorcycle endorsement, you must pass a written test and a riding skills test. Some endorsements require additional training or testing; check with your local Driver License Division office for specific requirements.

If you need to change your name, address, or other information on your license, you can do so at a Driver License Division office. Changing your address is free and takes a few minutes. Changing your name requires proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order, and may involve a fee.

Finding a Driver License Division office and what to bring

Utah has Driver License Division offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Utah Department of Public Safety website. Some offices are busier than others; calling ahead or checking online wait times can help you plan your visit.

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If you are explore for your first license, bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN. If you are renewing, bring your current license and payment. Bring a second form of ID if your primary document does not have your photo. Payment methods vary by office; most accept cash, debit, and credit cards, but call ahead to confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Utah driver's license cost?

The fee varies depending on the type of license and whether you are getting a new one or renewing. Standard license renewal costs less than a new license. Online renewal is cheaper than in-person renewal. Call your local Driver License Division office or check the state website for current fees, as they change periodically.

Can I get a Real ID-compliant license in Utah?

Yes. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for air travel and federal building access. You can request a Real ID license when you get or renew your license. You will need to bring additional proof of identity and residency compared to a standard license.

What happens if I drive with an expired license?

Driving with an expired license is a traffic violation in Utah. You can be stopped and cited. If your license expired within the last 30 days, you may be able to show the officer proof of renewal to avoid a ticket. Renew before your expiration date to avoid this problem.

Do I need to take the test again if I let my license expire?

If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can renew without retaking the written or driving test. If it expired more than five years ago, you will need to retake both tests as if you were getting your first license.

Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?

Utah may suspend your license if you have unpaid traffic violations or fines. You will need to resolve these before you can renew. Contact the court that issued the ticket or the Driver License Division to find out what you owe and how to pay.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.