What you need to bring to the DMV

Utah's Driver License Division requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number before you sit for the test. You cannot complete the process without all three categories of documents, so check what you have at home before you go to the office.

For proof of identity, bring a passport, certified birth certificate, or consular report of birth. A school ID or work ID alone will not work. If you are under 21, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person at the DMV office.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax notice with your current Utah address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works if it shows your address.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. A pay stub with your full number also counts.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to the DMV office — no document, no license.
  • Utah requires you to pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test before the license is issued.
  • If you are under 21, a parent or guardian must be present to sign your process in person.
  • You can schedule a DMV appointment online at dmv.utah.gov or walk in during office hours, though appointments are faster.
  • The total cost is $33 for a standard five-year license, paid at the time of your visit.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

Before you take the driving test, you must pass Utah's written knowledge exam. The test has 40 questions and covers traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and right-of-way rules. You need to answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass.

The DMV provides a free study guide on its website at dmv.utah.gov. You can also study using the official Utah Driver Handbook, which covers everything on the test. Many people study the handbook for a few days and take the test the same week they visit the office.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at no extra charge. If you fail it twice, you must wait one day before trying again. Most people pass on their first or second attempt.

Scheduling and taking the driving skills test

After you pass the written test, the DMV will schedule your driving skills test. This test happens in a vehicle with an examiner and usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. You will drive on local roads and demonstrate basic skills like turning, parking, and stopping at traffic lights.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current. If you bring a vehicle that fails inspection — for example, a broken taillight or worn brake pads — the examiner will not test you that day.

If you fail the driving test, you can schedule another test, though there may be a wait depending on how busy the DMV office is. Most people pass on their first or second attempt.

Age-specific rules for drivers under 21

Utah has a graduated licensing system for drivers under 21. If you are 16 or 17, you must first obtain an Instruction Permit before you can take the driving skills test. The permit allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car.

You must hold the Instruction Permit for at least 6 months and be at least 17 years old before you can test for a full license. During this time, you cannot drive alone, and you must follow all traffic laws.

If you are 18 or older, you can skip the Instruction Permit and go straight to the full license test. You still need a parent or guardian to sign your process if you are under 21.

Renewing or replacing a lost or damaged license

If your license is expiring, you can renew it online at dmv.utah.gov if you have a valid email address and your license is not suspended or revoked. Online renewal costs $33 and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must visit a DMV office in person. Bring the same documents you brought for your original license — proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. A replacement license costs $33.

Utah licenses are valid for five years from the date of issue. You will receive a notice by mail about 60 days before your license expires.

DMV office locations and hours

Utah has DMV offices in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, St. George, and Moab. You can find the full list of locations, hours, and phone numbers at dmv.utah.gov. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during regular business hours, and some locations offer Saturday hours.

You can schedule an appointment online at dmv.utah.gov or by calling the office directly. Appointments typically have shorter wait times than walk-ins, and you can usually get an appointment within one to two weeks. Walk-ins are also accepted, but wait times can be 30 minutes to over an hour depending on the time of day and how busy the office is.

If you are unable to visit an office in person, you cannot obtain a license by mail or online. You must appear at a DMV office to take the written and driving tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport as proof of identity?

Yes, a valid passport is one of the accepted forms of proof of identity. You can also use a certified birth certificate or consular report of birth. School IDs, work IDs, and expired passports do not count.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can schedule another driving test. There is no additional fee, but you may have to wait a few days or weeks depending on how busy the DMV office is. You can take the test as many times as you need until you pass.

Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a license from another state?

If you are moving to Utah and already have a valid driver's license from another state, you may be able to transfer it without taking the written test. Contact your local DMV office to ask about reciprocal agreements and what documents you will need to bring.

How long does it take to get a Utah driver's license from start to finish?

If you pass both tests on your first visit, you can receive a temporary license the same day and your permanent license by mail within two weeks. If you need to retake either test, the process takes longer depending on how soon you can schedule the next appointment.

What if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Non-citizens can obtain a Utah driver's license if they have a valid visa, passport, or other immigration document. You will need to bring the same proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number as any other applicant. Contact the DMV office directly if you have questions about your specific immigration status.