What you need to know about Utah driver licenses
A Utah driver license is issued by the Driver License Division, part of the Utah Department of Public Safety. You need one to drive legally in Utah, and you'll use it as a photo ID for many other purposes—banking, age verification, travel within the US, and more. Utah offers different license types depending on your age and driving history, and the process differs slightly depending on whether you're getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged card.
The state has moved most of its services online and to appointment-based in-person visits, so you won't walk in and wait. You'll need to book a time slot through the Driver License Division's website or by phone, bring specific documents, and complete the process in one visit. Renewal can often be done by mail or online if you meet certain conditions, but first-time licenses and some other situations require you to appear in person.
Key Takeaways
- Utah driver licenses are issued by the Driver License Division and require an appointment; walk-in service is not available.
- You must bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to any in-person visit.
- Renewal by mail or online is possible if your license is not expired more than five years and you meet other conditions, but first-time licenses always require an in-person appointment.
- A standard Utah driver license costs $30 and is valid for eight years; the fee varies for other license types and ages.
- You can book an appointment on the Driver License Division website or by calling 1-800-DMV-UTAH (1-800-368-8824).
Getting your first Utah driver license
If you're getting a driver license for the first time in Utah, you must visit a Driver License office in person. You cannot do this by mail or online. Start by booking an appointment through the Driver License Division website or by phone at 1-800-DMV-UTAH. The office will ask you to choose a time slot; appointments typically fill up several weeks in advance, so plan ahead.
Bring these documents to your appointment: a valid photo ID (passport, military ID, or ID from another state), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), and two documents showing your current Utah address (utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail dated within 60 days). If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must accompany you and bring their own ID. You'll also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test about traffic laws. The office will take your photo and fingerprints during the visit.
The standard driver license costs $30 and is valid for eight years. If you're 21 or older, the license will be a standard card. If you're under 21, the card will be vertical (portrait orientation) and will expire on your 21st birthday. You'll receive your license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Renewing your Utah driver license
Renewal is simpler than getting your first license if you meet Utah's conditions. You can renew by mail or online if your current license is not expired more than five years, you have no medical restrictions, and your name and address haven't changed. If any of those conditions don't explore, you must renew in person.
To renew online, visit the Driver License Division website, log in with your license number and date of birth, and follow the prompts. You'll pay the renewal fee online (currently $30 for a standard license valid eight years). Your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. To renew by mail, read the renewal form from the Driver License Division website, fill it out, and mail it with a check or money order to the address listed on the form.
If you must renew in person—because your license is expired more than five years, you have medical restrictions, or your name or address changed—book an appointment online or by phone. Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security card or proof of your number. The in-person renewal takes about 15 minutes and costs the same as mail or online renewal.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it by mail, online, or in person. The replacement fee is $20. By mail or online, the process is the same as renewal: fill out the form (available on the Driver License Division website), pay the fee, and your new card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to take a new photo or retake the knowledge test.
If you prefer to replace it in person, book an appointment and bring your proof of identity and residency, just as you would for an in-person renewal. If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police first and bring the police report number to your appointment, though it is not required.
Different license types and restrictions
Utah issues several types of driver licenses beyond the standard card. A commercial driver license (CDL) is required if you drive a truck or bus for work. A motorcycle endorsement allows you to operate a motorcycle and requires a separate knowledge test and skills test. A restricted license may be issued to drivers with medical conditions or as a result of a DUI conviction; restrictions appear on the card and limit when or where you can drive.
Drivers under 18 receive a provisional license, which has different rules than a standard adult license. Provisional licenses have restrictions on nighttime driving, the number of passengers you can carry, and phone use. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after you hold the license for a certain period, depending on your age when you received it.
If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely, you may be required to take a medical exam or vision test as part of renewal. The Driver License Division may impose restrictions on your license—such as requiring corrective lenses, limiting driving to daylight hours, or restricting you to certain roads—based on the results.
Documents you'll need for any in-person visit
Whether you're getting your first license, renewing in person, or replacing a lost one, bring the same core set of documents. You need one form of valid photo ID (passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver license), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card is easiest, but a W-2, 1099, or tax return works), and two documents showing your current Utah address dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable address documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail.
If your name has changed since your last license—through marriage, divorce, or legal name change—bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). If you're under 18, your parent or guardian must be present with their own ID. If you're explore for a CDL or motorcycle endorsement, bring additional documents specific to that license type; the Driver License Division website lists these requirements.
How to book an appointment and what to expect
All in-person visits to a Driver License office require an appointment. Visit the Driver License Division website at dmv.utah.gov or call 1-800-DMV-UTAH (1-800-368-8824) to book. The website shows available time slots at each of Utah's Driver License offices. Appointments fill quickly, especially in urban areas like Salt Lake City and Provo, so book as far in advance as your situation allows.
When you arrive for your appointment, bring all required documents and arrive 10 minutes early. The visit typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll answer questions about your driving history, pass a vision test, and have your photo and fingerprints taken. If you're getting your first license or renewing after expiration, you'll take a written knowledge test on traffic laws and road signs. The office staff will tell you when to expect your new license by mail.
If you miss your appointment, you can reschedule online or by phone without penalty. If you arrive late, the office may not be able to see you and you'll need to book another appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with an expired Utah license while waiting for my renewal?
No. Once your license expires, you cannot legally drive. If you're renewing by mail or online, send in your process before your license expires. If you need to renew in person and your appointment is after your expiration date, contact the Driver License Division to explain the situation; they may be able to issue a temporary permit.
What if I move out of Utah after getting a license?
Your Utah license remains valid in other states for the duration of its expiration date. If you become a resident of another state, you'll need to get a license from that state. You do not need to formally surrender your Utah license, but you should not carry both an active Utah license and an active license from another state.
How do I change my address on my Utah driver license?
You can change your address online through the Driver License Division website if your license is not expired. If your license is expired or you prefer to change it in person, book an appointment and bring proof of your new address. Address changes by mail are not available; you must do it online or in person.
What happens if I fail the knowledge test?
You can retake the test at your next appointment. There is no additional fee for a retest. Schedule a new appointment through the Driver License Division website or by phone, and you'll take the test again during that visit.
Do I need a Real ID-compliant license to fly within the US?
Yes, starting May 7, 2025, a standard Utah driver license will not be accepted for domestic air travel; you'll need a Real ID-compliant license or another form of federal ID like a passport. Utah offers Real ID licenses at the same cost as standard licenses. When you renew or replace your license, ask for the Real ID version, or visit a Driver License office in person to upgrade your current license.