Utah Driver's License Renewal: What You Need to Do
Utah allows you to renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Driver License Division office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time remains before expiration, and whether you need to update your address or other information. Most renewals can be completed without a visit to an office, but some situations require you to appear in person.
Your Utah license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. The state sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for that notice to begin the process. You can renew up to one year before your current license expires.
Key Takeaways
- Utah offers online renewal for most drivers whose licenses are still valid and who have not changed their address in the past two years.
- Mail renewal takes about two weeks and requires you to submit your current license, a completed process form, and the renewal fee.
- In-person renewal at a Driver License Division office is required if your license has been expired for more than one year, if you need to change your address, or if you want to update your photograph.
- The renewal fee is $35 for an eight-year license, and you must provide proof of identity and Utah residency.
- Utah does not require a vision test for license renewal unless you are over 65 years old or renewing after a suspension or revocation.
Online Renewal Through Utah's Website
Online renewal is the fastest option and requires no mailing or office visit. You can renew online at the Utah Driver License Division website if your current license is still valid, you have not changed your address in the past two years, and you are not renewing after a suspension, revocation, or medical hold. The process takes about 10 minutes.
To renew online, you will need your current Utah driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit card or credit card). You will receive your renewed license by mail within 10 to 14 business days. There is no additional fee for online renewal beyond the standard $35 renewal fee.
If you are over 65 years old, you cannot renew online; you must renew by mail or in person because Utah requires a vision screening for drivers in that age group.
Mail Renewal: Step-by-Step
Mail renewal works if your license is still valid and you have not had a suspension, revocation, or medical hold. You will need to complete the Driver License Renewal process (Form DL-43), which you can read from the Utah Driver License Division website or request by mail.
Here is what to send:
- Your completed and signed Form DL-43.
- Your current Utah driver's license (the state will return it to you).
- A check or money order for $35 made payable to the Utah Driver License Division.
- A copy of proof of Utah residency if you have moved since your last renewal (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the past 60 days).
Mail your packet to: Utah Driver License Division, P.O. Box 30560, Salt Lake City, UT 84130-0560. Processing takes about two weeks from the date the office receives your materials. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file.
In-Person Renewal at a Driver License Division Office
You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than one year, if you want to change your address, if you need a new photograph, or if you are renewing after a suspension or revocation. You will also need to appear in person if you are over 65 and renewing for the first time in that age group, because you must pass a vision screening.
Bring these documents to your appointment:
- Your current or expired Utah driver's license.
- Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID).
- Proof of Utah residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the past 60 days).
- Your Social Security number or card.
- Payment of $35 (cash, check, debit card, or credit card).
Find your nearest Driver License Division office on the Utah Department of Public Safety website. Most offices operate Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours vary by location. You can schedule an appointment online or walk in; wait times are typically shorter with an appointment. Your new license is usually issued the same day.
Address Changes and Other Updates
If you have moved since your last license was issued, you must update your address. You cannot do this online; you must either mail in your renewal or visit an office in person. When you renew by mail, include a copy of proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the past 60 days).
If you want to change your name, you must visit an office in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Name changes cannot be processed by mail or online.
If you want a new photograph on your license, you must renew in person. The office will take a new photo at no additional cost.
What Happens If Your License Expires
If your license expires before you renew it, you cannot legally drive. However, you can still renew by mail or online as long as your license has been expired for less than one year. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must renew in person and may be required to retake the written test and vision screening, depending on how long it has been expired.
If your license expired more than three years ago, you will need to explore for a new license rather than renew, which requires taking the written test, vision screening, and road test. Contact your local Driver License Division office to confirm what you will need.
Fees and Payment Methods
The renewal fee for an eight-year Utah driver's license is $35. This fee applies whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. If you renew in person, you can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. If you renew by mail, you must send a check or money order. If you renew online, you must use a debit card or credit card.
There are no additional fees for address changes, name changes, or photograph updates during renewal. If you need to replace a lost or damaged license between renewals, that replacement costs $20.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Utah license if I live out of state?
Yes, you can renew by mail or online as long as your license is still valid and you meet the other requirements for those methods. If you need to renew in person, you will have to visit a Utah Driver License Division office in person or contact the office to ask about exceptions.
What if I lost my current license and need to renew?
You can still renew by mail or online if your license is not expired. You will need your driver's license number, which you can find on any documents the state has sent you or by calling the Driver License Division. If you cannot locate your number, you must renew in person.
Do I need a vision test to renew my Utah license?
No, unless you are over 65 years old or renewing after a suspension or medical hold. Drivers 65 and older must pass a vision screening, which can only be done in person at a Driver License Division office.
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore?
Online renewal takes 10 to 14 business days. Mail renewal takes about two weeks from the date the office receives your materials. In-person renewal usually issues your license the same day you visit the office.
Can I renew my license early?
Yes, you can renew up to one year before your current license expires. This is useful if you are planning to travel or want to avoid renewing close to your expiration date.