What the Utah Driver License Division does and where to find it
The Utah Driver License Division is part of the Utah Department of Public Safety. It issues driver licenses and identification cards, handles renewals and replacements, and manages the testing and records that go with them. If you need a license, ID card, or have questions about your driving record in Utah, you contact this division — not a local office or a third party.
The division operates a main office in Salt Lake City and several satellite locations around the state. You can visit in person, mail in certain requests, or handle some transactions online through their website. The division also processes commercial driver license (CDL) applications and medical certification documents.
Because Utah is a Real ID state, the division also verifies documents that meet federal standards for travel and federal building access. This affects what you need to bring when you renew or replace your license.
Key Takeaways
- The Utah Driver License Division is run by the Department of Public Safety and handles all driver licenses, ID cards, renewals, and driving records in the state.
- You can renew your license online if you meet certain conditions, but new licenses and replacements usually require an in-person visit.
- Real ID compliance means you need specific documents (passport, birth certificate, proof of residency) when you renew or get a new license.
- The division's main office is in Salt Lake City, but satellite offices are located in other cities and counties across Utah.
- Driving records and abstract requests can be ordered online or by mail if you do not need them when ready.
How to renew your Utah driver license
Utah allows online renewal for licenses that are not expired and meet certain conditions. You log into the division's website, verify your identity, pay the fee, and your renewed license is mailed to you. This route takes about 10 business days and costs less than renewing in person. You cannot renew online if your license is already expired, if you need to change your address, or if you have medical restrictions that need updating.
If you cannot renew online, you must visit a Driver License Division office in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The in-person renewal takes about 30 minutes and costs more than the online option.
Your license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. The division sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for the notice to renew.
Getting a new license or replacing a lost one
A new license — whether you are moving to Utah, turning 16, or getting your first license — requires an in-person appointment at a Driver License Division office. You must bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID from another state), proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. Real ID documents are required, so a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days works for residency.
If you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license, you also go in person. Bring your Social Security card or document showing your number, proof of residency, and a form of identity. The division issues a temporary license on the spot and mails the permanent one within 10 business days.
First-time drivers under 18 must pass a written test and a driving test. The division schedules these at the office. You can study using the Utah Driver Handbook, which is free on the division's website.
Where to find Utah Driver License Division offices
The main office is located in Salt Lake City at 1095 Motor Avenue. Satellite offices operate in Ogden, Provo, St. George, Moab, Vernal, and other locations. Hours vary by location, and many offices now require appointments rather than walk-ins. You can find the full list of offices, hours, and how to book an appointment on the Utah Department of Public Safety website.
Wait times at busy locations can run 30 minutes to over an hour, even with an appointment. Visiting early in the week or early in the day often means shorter waits. Some satellite offices have shorter lines than the main Salt Lake City location.
Ordering your driving record or abstract
Your driving record shows your license status, violations, accidents, and suspensions. You can order it online through the division's website, by mail, or in person. Online orders are processed within one business day and cost less than mail or in-person requests. The division mails the record to you or can email it depending on the type you order.
An abstract is a shorter version of your record, often used for insurance or employment purposes. You can order an abstract the same way as a full record. If you need it when ready, you can pick one up in person at any Driver License Division office.
You can also check your license status and some record information online without ordering a full abstract. This is free and when ready.
Real ID requirements and what changed
Utah is a Real ID state, which means your driver license must meet federal standards for travel on commercial flights and entry to federal buildings. When you renew or get a new license, the division verifies your identity and residency using specific documents.
You need to bring a primary identity document (U.S. passport, birth certificate, or passport card), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days). If your name has changed, bring the legal document proving the change.
If you do not have all required documents, the division can tell you what alternatives they accept. Some documents from other countries are acceptable if you are a non-citizen. The division's website lists all approved documents.
Commercial driver license (CDL) testing and requirements
If you need a CDL to drive a truck, bus, or other commercial vehicle, the Utah Driver License Division handles the written test and medical certification. You must pass a written exam specific to the class of vehicle you want to drive and pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exam. The division can refer you to approved medical examiners.
CDL applicants must also pass a skills test (pre-trip inspection, basic control, and road test). The division schedules these tests at its offices. You can study using the CDL manual, available free on the division's website.
CDL licenses are valid for four years and require renewal in person. Medical certification must be current and on file with the division.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license by mail?
No, Utah does not accept mail-in renewals. You can renew online if your license is current and you meet the conditions, or you must visit an office in person. Mail is only used for ordering driving records or abstracts.
What do I do if my license is already expired?
You cannot renew online once your license expires. You must visit a Driver License Division office in person with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. Expired licenses can still be used as ID for the visit.
How long does it take to get a license after my appointment?
If you receive a temporary license at your appointment, the permanent license is mailed within 10 business days. Online renewals take about 10 business days. In-person renewals where you do not need a temporary license also take about 10 business days for mailing.
What if I moved to Utah from another state?
You must get a new Utah license within 60 days of moving. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Utah residency. You do not have to take a new written or driving test if your out-of-state license is valid.
Can I change my address without renewing my license?
Yes, you can update your address online through the division's website without renewing. This is free and takes a few minutes. Your physical license will not change, but your record will show the new address.