Getting a replacement license in Utah

To replace a lost driver's license in Utah, you'll visit a Driver License Division office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and take a new photo. The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to retake the written or driving test unless your license has been expired for more than three years.

Utah has 10 Driver License Division offices across the state, plus several satellite locations. The main office is in Salt Lake City, but you can visit any location. You can also check wait times online before you go, which helps you avoid peak hours.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver License Division office in person with proof of identity and residency; replacements cannot be done by mail or online.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of Utah residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and payment for the replacement fee, which is $25 for a standard license.
  • You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic replacement card within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license expired more than three years ago, you will need to retake the written test and vision screening, but not the driving test.

What documents to bring to the Driver License Division

Bring an original or certified copy of one document that proves your identity. The Driver License Division accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, military ID, or tribal ID. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal, not a photocopy.

You also need proof that you live in Utah. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. The document must show your name and current address. If you recently moved and your address hasn't updated on your bills yet, a lease or rental agreement is usually the fastest option.

Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return. You'll also need to pay the replacement fee of $25 in cash or card at the office.

Finding the nearest Driver License Division office

Utah's Driver License Division operates 10 full-service offices and several part-time satellite locations. The main office is at 1095 Motor Avenue in Salt Lake City, open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Other full-service offices are in Ogden, Provo, St. George, Cedar City, Price, Vernal, Logan, Moab, and Richfield.

You can find the complete list of office locations, hours, and current wait times on the Utah Driver License Division website. Many offices have longer waits on Tuesdays and Thursdays, so visiting early in the week or in the morning often means a shorter wait. Some satellite offices have limited hours, so check before you drive there.

What happens if your license expired more than three years ago

If your license has been expired for three years or longer, you cannot straightforward replace it. Instead, you'll need to renew it, which requires retaking the written knowledge test and vision screening. You do not have to retake the driving test. The written test covers Utah traffic laws and road signs and takes about 20 minutes.

You can study for the written test using the Utah Driver Handbook, available free on the Driver License Division website. Many people read through it once or twice before their test. The vision screening checks that you can see well enough to drive safely and usually takes just a few minutes.

Getting your temporary and permanent license

When you finish at the Driver License Division office, you'll receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for driving when ready and works just like your plastic license for all purposes — you can use it to drive, show as ID, and travel within the United States. Keep it with you until your permanent card arrives.

Your plastic replacement license will be mailed to the address you provide at the office within 7 to 10 business days. If you don't receive it within two weeks, contact the Driver License Division to check the status. Once your plastic card arrives, the temporary paper license is no longer needed, though you can keep it as a backup.

Replacing your license if you've moved out of state

If you've moved to another state and lost your Utah license, you have two options. You can return to Utah in person to replace it at any Driver License Division office, or you can get a license in your new state instead. Most people choose to get a license in their current state of residence, since you'll eventually need one there anyway.

If you do return to Utah to replace your license, bring the same documents listed above. Your Utah license will remain valid for driving until it expires, even if you're living elsewhere, but it's generally simpler to switch to your new state's license once you've moved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license by mail or online?

No. Utah requires you to appear in person at a Driver License Division office to replace a lost license. You cannot do this by mail or through the website. However, you can renew a valid license online if it hasn't expired.

What if I don't have proof of residency?

You must provide proof of Utah residency dated within 60 days. If you don't have a utility bill or lease, ask your landlord, bank, or utility company for a statement. A letter from your employer on company letterhead with your address can also work in some cases — call your local office first to confirm.

How much does a replacement license cost?

A replacement license costs $25. This is a one-time fee paid at the office. If you need to replace it again within a certain period, there may be additional fees, so ask the staff when you visit.

What if my name has changed since my original license?

Bring a document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Driver License Division will update your name on your replacement license at no extra cost.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must pick up your temporary paper license in person at the office. Your permanent plastic license is mailed to you, so no one needs to pick that up.