Where to go and what to bring for a Salt Lake City driver license

The Salt Lake City Driver License Division office is located at 595 West South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101. This is the main office for the Salt Lake Valley area and handles new driver licenses, renewals, and replacements. You can walk in during business hours, but the office also takes appointments through the Utah Driver License Division website, and appointments are strongly recommended because wait times without one often exceed two hours.

Before you go, gather the documents you will need. Utah requires proof of identity (a passport, certified birth certificate, or previous driver license), proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days). If you are under 21, you will also need a parent or guardian present with their own ID. Bring the originals—photocopies are not accepted for identity documents.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on state holidays. If you cannot reach the Salt Lake City location, the Taylorsville Driver License Division office at 2010 West 9000 South serves the greater Salt Lake area and has the same requirements and hours.

Key Takeaways

  • The main Salt Lake City office is at 595 West South Temple and requires proof of identity, Social Security number, and current address before you can get a license.
  • You must bring original documents—photocopies of identity papers are not accepted, and a parent or guardian must accompany anyone under 21.
  • Appointments are available through the Utah Driver License Division website and reduce wait times from two hours or more to 30 minutes or less.
  • The office operates Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the Taylorsville location serves as an alternative if Salt Lake City is inconvenient.
  • First-time driver license applicants must pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test on the same day or in a follow-up appointment.

What happens during your first visit for a new driver license

When you arrive at the Salt Lake City office, you will check in at the front desk and present your documents. A staff member will verify your identity, Social Security number, and address, then take a photograph and collect your signature. This process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if your documents are in order.

Next, you will take the written knowledge test on a computer terminal. The test covers Utah traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 80 out of 100 questions correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at no extra cost, but you must wait at least one hour between attempts. Many people study the Utah Driver Handbook (available free on the Driver License Division website) for one to two weeks before testing.

After passing the written test, you will schedule a driving skills test. This test is usually scheduled for a different day because the office needs to coordinate with an examiner. The examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you arrange) and observe your ability to start the car, control speed, turn, park, and respond to traffic. The test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. You must pass both the written test and the driving test to receive your license.

Documents you need for different situations

If you are a new resident of Utah and already hold a valid driver license from another state, you do not need to take the written or driving test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Utah residency, and proof of Social Security number. The office will issue a Utah license without testing.

If your license has expired, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person, depending on how long it has been expired and whether you need a new photograph. Licenses expired less than one year can be renewed by mail or online if you have not changed your address or appearance significantly. Bring your expired license and proof of current address if renewing in person.

If you have lost your license or it was stolen, bring a police report (if available) and proof of identity and address. The office will issue a replacement with the same number and expiration date as your original. Replacement licenses cost less than new licenses.

Fees and how long the process takes

A new driver license costs $30 and is valid for eight years. A renewal costs $25 for an eight-year license. A replacement for a lost or stolen license costs $20. These fees are paid at the time of process and are non-refundable, even if you do not pass the written or driving test.

The written test can be completed on your first visit, usually within one to two hours from arrival (less with an appointment). The driving test is scheduled for a later date—typically one to four weeks out, depending on how busy the office is. Once you pass both tests, your physical license is printed on-site and issued when ready, or mailed to your address within five to seven business days if the office is processing a high volume.

If you book an appointment, you will spend 30 to 45 minutes total for the written test and document verification. Without an appointment, expect two to three hours of waiting before you are called.

Preparing for the written knowledge test

The Utah Driver Handbook is the official study material and covers everything on the test. It is available as a free PDF on the Utah Driver License Division website under "Study Materials." The handbook is about 40 pages and takes most people two to three hours to read thoroughly. Key sections include right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, pedestrian safety, and what to do at traffic lights and stop signs.

Common mistakes on the test include misunderstanding right-of-way at four-way stops, not knowing the speed limit in residential areas (25 mph unless posted otherwise), and confusing when you can turn right on red (allowed in Utah unless a sign says otherwise). Practice tests are not officially provided by the state, but the handbook includes sample questions at the end of each section.

You are allowed to take the test in English or Spanish. If you need the test in another language, contact the Salt Lake City office at least one week in advance to arrange an interpreter.

Scheduling an appointment and what to expect on test day

To book an appointment, visit the Utah Driver License Division website and select "Schedule an Appointment." Choose the Salt Lake City location (595 West South Temple), select your service type (new driver license, renewal, or replacement), and pick an available date and time. Appointments are usually available within one to two weeks. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment number.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, your proof of address, and your proof of identity. If you are under 21, your parent or guardian must arrive with you and bring their own ID.

Wear clothes that allow you to move comfortably for the photograph (no hats, sunglasses, or head coverings unless for religious reasons). The photograph will be used on your license for eight years, so many people dress as they normally would for work or school.

What to do if you fail the driving test or need to reschedule

If you do not pass the driving test, you can retake it without paying another fee. The office will schedule your next attempt, usually within two to four weeks. You do not need to retake the written test. Many people fail because they are nervous, not because they cannot drive safely—taking a few practice drives with a friend or family member before the second attempt often helps.

If you need to reschedule your appointment or your driving test, call the Salt Lake City office at the phone number listed on your appointment confirmation or visit the website to cancel and rebook. Cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance do not result in a fee. If you cancel with less notice or do not show up, you may lose your appointment slot and have to wait for the next available time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The test is available in Spanish at the office without advance notice. For other languages, contact the Salt Lake City Driver License Division office at least one week ahead to arrange an interpreter. You will likely be asked to pay for the interpreter's time.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You must have a Social Security number to obtain a Utah driver license. If you do not have one, contact the Social Security Administration to explore. The process takes several weeks, so plan ahead if you are a new resident.

Do I have to take the driving test in my own car?

Yes. The examiner must ride in the vehicle you will be driving. It must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. You cannot use a rental car or a vehicle belonging to the testing office.

How long is a Utah driver license valid?

A standard driver license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. Licenses for people over 65 are valid for four years. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before expiration.

What if I moved to Utah from another country?

You will need a passport or travel document as proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Utah residency. You must take both the written and driving tests. An international driver permit is not accepted as a substitute for a Utah license.