Utah renewal options: in-person, online, or by mail

Utah lets you renew your driver's license three ways: online through the Driver License Division website, in person at a local office, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. Which route you take depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you need a Real ID, and how soon you need the new one. Online renewal is fastest and costs the least, but not everyone qualifies.

Your current license must be valid or expired less than five years to renew by mail or online. If it has been expired longer than that, you must renew in person. If you need a Real ID (required for domestic air travel starting May 7, 2025), you cannot renew online or by mail — you must go to a Driver License office in person with original documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal costs $20 and takes about 10 business days; you need a valid credit or debit card and a current Utah license that is not expired more than five years.
  • In-person renewal at a Driver License office lets you get a Real ID if you bring an original birth certificate, passport, or certified vital record, plus proof of residency and Social Security number.
  • Mail renewal is an option only if your license is valid or expired less than five years and you do not need a Real ID.
  • Utah licenses are valid for eight years for adults under 65 and four years for drivers 65 and older; renewal fees vary by type and whether you add a Real ID.
  • You can check your renewal may be able to access and start the online process on the Utah Driver License Division website.

Online renewal: fastest and cheapest option

To renew online, visit the Utah Driver License Division website and log in or create an account. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information against state records and ask you to confirm your address or update it if you have moved.

Online renewal costs $20 and does not include a Real ID. You pay by credit or debit card. Once you complete the process, your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 10 business days. You can use your old license until the new one arrives. This option is not available if your license has been expired more than five years or if you need to change your name, gender marker, or other personal information.

In-person renewal at a Driver License office

Visit any Utah Driver License office with your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. Bring your original Social Security card if you have it, though the office can verify your number without it. If you are renewing a Real ID license or adding a Real ID to your renewal, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, U.S. passport, or certified vital record from the state where you were born.

In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes. You will have your photo taken and can choose to update your address, name, or other information. The office will issue a temporary paper license you can use when ready while your permanent card is mailed. Standard renewal costs $20; a Real ID costs $25. Your new license arrives within 10 business days.

Driver License offices are located in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, St. George, Moab, Price, Vernal, and Blanding. Hours and wait times vary by location; check the Driver License Division website for current information and to see if you can schedule an appointment.

Mail renewal: limited availability

You can renew by mail only if your license is valid or expired less than five years and you do not need a Real ID. Mail renewal is not available if you need to change your name, address, or other personal information — you must do that in person or online.

To renew by mail, contact the Driver License Division at 801-538-3800 or visit their website to request a mail renewal form. Complete the form, include a check or money order for $20, and mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes 15 to 20 business days from the date the office receives your process. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file.

Real ID requirements and what you need to bring

A Real ID is a federal standard that allows you to use your driver's license for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. Utah began issuing Real IDs in 2009, and starting May 7, 2025, you will need one to board a domestic flight or enter a federal facility. You cannot renew a Real ID online or by mail — you must go in person.

To get a Real ID during renewal, bring an original or certified copy of one of these documents: U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, or certified vital record from the state where you were born. You also need proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Real ID renewal costs $25 instead of $20. Your new license will be marked with a gold star in the top right corner and will be valid for eight years (four years if you are 65 or older).

License validity periods and renewal timing

Utah driver's licenses are valid for eight years for adults under 65 and four years for drivers 65 and older. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. The expiration date is printed on the front of your license.

If your license has expired, you can still renew it online or by mail as long as it expired less than five years ago. If it has been expired five years or longer, you must renew in person at a Driver License office. If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew — you must contact the Driver License Division to resolve the suspension or revocation first.

What to do if your license is suspended or revoked

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. If your license status shows as suspended or revoked when you try to renew online, contact the Driver License Division at 801-538-3800 to find out why and what steps you need to take to restore it.

Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, unpaid child support, or medical conditions reported to the state. Revocation is more serious and usually results from multiple violations or a DUI conviction. The process to restore your driving privileges varies depending on the reason. The Driver License Division can tell you what you owe, what documents you need, and whether you must take a written or driving test before you can renew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Utah license if I have moved out of state?

No. You must be a Utah resident to hold a Utah driver's license. If you have moved to another state, you should obtain a license from your new state of residence. If you are temporarily out of state but still a Utah resident, you can renew online or by mail as long as your license is not expired more than five years.

What if my name has changed since I got my current license?

You cannot change your name online or by mail. You must renew in person at a Driver License office and bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The office will update your name and issue a new license with the correct name.

How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?

Standard processing time is 10 business days from the date you complete your renewal. Mail renewal takes 15 to 20 business days. If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent card arrives within 10 business days. Times may be longer during peak periods.

Do I need a Real ID if I only drive in Utah?

You do not need a Real ID for driving. Real ID is required only for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. If you never fly or visit federal facilities, you can renew your standard driver's license. However, starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID or passport to board a domestic flight.

What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?

Contact the Driver License Division to report your license lost and request a replacement. You can renew at the same time, but you must do this in person at a Driver License office. Bring your proof of residency and Social Security number. The office will issue a temporary paper license and mail your new license within 10 business days.