What you need to know about Utah driver licenses
A Utah driver license is issued by the Driver License Division, which is part of the Utah Department of Public Safety. You need one to drive legally in Utah, and you'll use it for identification at banks, airports, and other places. Utah offers different license types depending on your age and driving history, and renewal happens every five or eight years depending on which type you hold.
The process differs if you're getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged card. Each path has its own timeline, required documents, and fees. Understanding which category you fall into will tell you exactly what to bring and where to go.
Key Takeaways
- Utah driver licenses are issued by the Driver License Division and must be renewed every five years (under age 65) or eight years (age 65 and older).
- You can renew online through the Utah Driver License Division website if you meet certain conditions, but some renewals require an in-person visit to a Driver License office.
- First-time applicants must pass a written test, vision screening, and driving test, and must bring proof of identity, Social Security number, and Utah residency.
- The fee for a five-year license is $30; an eight-year license for those 65 and older is $25.
- You can schedule an appointment at a Driver License office online to avoid waiting, though walk-ins are also accepted.
Renewing your license online or by mail
Utah allows online renewal for most drivers whose licenses are not expired and who have not had certain violations or medical suspensions. You can renew through the Driver License Division website if your current license is still valid or expired less than one year ago. The online process takes about 10 minutes, costs $30 for a five-year license, and your new card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
If you cannot renew online—for example, if your license expired more than a year ago, you have had a suspension, or you need to update your address or name—you must visit a Driver License office in person. Some offices also offer mail-in renewal for certain situations; call your local office to ask whether yours does.
Getting your first Utah driver license
First-time applicants must visit a Driver License office in person. You will need to bring your Social Security card (or a document showing your number), proof of identity such as a passport or birth certificate, and two documents proving Utah residency—a utility bill, lease, or bank statement both work. Bring the originals, not copies.
At the office, you will take a written knowledge test covering traffic laws and road signs, pass a vision screening, and have your photo taken. If you pass, you receive a temporary permit that lets you drive with a licensed adult. You then schedule a driving test at a separate appointment, usually within two weeks. Once you pass the driving test, your permanent license is mailed to you.
Applicants under 18 follow a different path called the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. You start with a learner permit, hold it for at least six months, then move to a provisional license with restrictions on night driving and passengers. At 18, those restrictions lift and you have a full license.
Renewing in person at a Driver License office
If you must renew in person, bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security card or a document with your number. You do not need to retake the written or driving test unless your license was suspended or revoked, or unless the office requests it based on your driving record.
The office will update your photo, verify your information, and issue a new license on the spot if you are renewing a standard license. If you are turning 65 and switching to an eight-year license, or if you need to change your address or name, the process is the same but takes a few extra minutes. Your new card is mailed within 7 to 10 business days.
Finding a Driver License office and scheduling an appointment
Utah has Driver License offices in most counties. You can find the nearest one and check its hours on the Driver License Division website. Many offices now allow you to schedule an appointment online, which significantly reduces wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are served first.
To schedule online, go to the Driver License Division website, select your county and office, and choose an available time slot. You will receive a confirmation with your appointment number. Bring that confirmation when you arrive. If you cannot schedule online, call the office directly to ask about availability.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it in person or online. For an online replacement, visit the Driver License Division website, verify your identity, pay the $30 fee, and your new card arrives by mail. For an in-person replacement, visit any Driver License office with your Social Security card and proof of residency.
If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police and monitor your credit for fraud. The Driver License Division does not require a police report to issue a replacement, but having one on file can protect you if someone uses your license number fraudulently.
Fees and what they cover
A five-year driver license costs $30. If you are 65 or older, you can choose an eight-year license for $25. A replacement for a lost or damaged license costs $30. A duplicate (a second copy of your current license) costs $20. These fees are paid at the time of renewal or replacement and do not include any test fees if you are a first-time applicant.
Fees are paid by cash, check, or card at Driver License offices. Online renewals and replacements accept card payments only. No refunds are issued if you change your mind after paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?
No, you cannot renew online if your license expired more than a year ago. You must visit a Driver License office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security card. You will not need to retake the written or driving test unless the office requests it.
What if I move out of Utah but still have a valid Utah license?
You should obtain a driver license from your new state within the timeframe required by that state—usually 30 to 60 days after moving. You can keep your Utah license until it expires, but using an out-of-state address on your license can cause problems with traffic stops or insurance claims. Contact your new state's licensing authority for their specific requirements.
How long does it take to get a license after I pass the driving test?
Your permanent license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after you pass the driving test. You receive a temporary permit at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the permanent card to arrive.
Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?
Walk-ins are accepted at all Driver License offices, but appointment holders are served first. Scheduling an appointment online through the Driver License Division website will reduce your wait time significantly. If you cannot schedule online, call your local office to ask about same-day availability.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test. Most offices let you schedule another test within a few days or weeks, depending on availability. You pay the test fee again each time you retake it. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, though some offices may require you to wait a certain number of days between attempts.