What the Utah Driver's License Division does and how to reach it
The Utah Driver's License Division is part of the Department of Public Safety and is the only office that issues, renews, and manages driver's licenses in Utah. It handles everything from your first license to replacements, renewals, and changes to your record. If you need a license or have questions about your driving privileges, this is the office you contact.
The Division runs a network of local offices across Utah where you complete the process, testing, and photo process in person. You cannot get a Utah license by mail or online — you must visit a driver's license office. The main office is in Salt Lake City, but there are satellite locations in most counties so you do not have to travel far.
You can find the office nearest you, check hours, and see what documents to bring on the Division's website at dmv.utah.gov. The site also lists current wait times at each location, which helps you plan when to go. Many offices now use an online appointment system, which can cut your wait time significantly.
Key Takeaways
- The Utah Driver's License Division is the only place to get a Utah driver's license, and you must explore in person at a local office.
- You can find your nearest office, book an appointment, and see what documents to bring at dmv.utah.gov.
- A standard Utah driver's license is valid for eight years, and renewal can be done in person or by mail if you meet certain conditions.
- The Division also handles license suspensions, reinstatement, and changes to your record, such as address updates or name changes.
- Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to your appointment — the website lists exact documents accepted.
What documents you need to bring to a driver's license office
Utah requires three types of proof before you can get a license: identity, residency, and Social Security number. The Division accepts a specific list of documents for each category, and you must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies do not count.
For proof of identity, you can use a passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, or a tribal ID. If you use a birth certificate, you must also bring a second form of ID such as a school ID, work ID, or medical record with your name and date of birth. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub.
If you are under 21, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person. If you are explore for a Real ID-compliant license (which you will need for federal buildings and flights after May 2025), bring the same documents plus proof of citizenship such as a passport or birth certificate. Check dmv.utah.gov before you go to confirm the exact documents your office accepts, because some offices may have slightly different requirements.
How the testing and approval process works
Once you submit your documents, you will take a written test on Utah traffic laws and road signs, then a driving test with an examiner. The written test has 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. You can study using the Utah Driver's Manual, which is free on the Division's website.
The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic skills like starting the car, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you may have to wait a few days or schedule another appointment.
After you pass both tests, the Division takes your photo and issues your license on the spot or mails it to you within a few business days, depending on the office. Your license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. If you are under 21, your license will have different restrictions — for example, you may not drive between midnight and 5 a.m. without a licensed adult in the car.
Renewing your Utah driver's license
You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. If you renew before expiration, your new license will be valid for eight years from the expiration date of your old license, not from the date you renew. This means you do not lose time by renewing early.
If you meet certain conditions, you can renew by mail without visiting an office. You are may be able to access for mail renewal if your license is not suspended, you have not had any violations in the past five years, and you are not changing your name or address. To renew by mail, contact the Division or read the renewal form from dmv.utah.gov, fill it out, and mail it with your old license and the renewal fee. Mail renewal takes about two weeks.
If you cannot renew by mail, you must visit an office in person. You will need to bring your old license, proof of residency, and the renewal fee. You will not have to retake the written or driving test unless the Division asks you to. If your license has been expired for more than three years, you will have to explore for a new license instead of renewing, which means taking both tests again.
What to do if your license is suspended or revoked
A license suspension means you cannot drive legally for a set period of time. A revocation means your license is cancelled and you must reapply and pass all tests to get a new one. Suspensions and revocations happen for reasons like unpaid traffic tickets, DUI convictions, accumulating too many points from violations, or failing to pay child support.
If your license is suspended, you will receive a notice in the mail explaining why and how long the suspension lasts. You cannot drive during the suspension period, even if you have an emergency. Some suspensions can be lifted early if you meet certain conditions — for example, paying a fine or completing a traffic school course. Contact the Division to find out what you need to do.
To reinstate a suspended license, you must complete whatever requirement caused the suspension (such as paying a fine or attending a hearing), then visit a driver's license office and pay a reinstatement fee. The Division will check your record and issue a new license if everything is in order. If your license was revoked, the process is longer — you may have to wait a set period before you can reapply, and you will have to pass all tests again.
Changing your name, address, or other information on your license
If you move, get married, or change your name, you must update your license within 30 days. To change your address, you can do it in person at any driver's license office or, in some cases, by mail. Bring your current license and proof of your new address (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days).
To change your name, you must visit an office in person and bring your current license plus a document that proves your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Division will issue a new license with your updated name. There is usually a small fee for a replacement license.
You can also update your address online through the Division's website if you have a valid email address and access to your license number. This is the fastest option if it is available in your area. Check dmv.utah.gov to see if online address changes are open in Utah right now.
Contact information and office locations
The main Utah Driver's License Division office is located at 1095 Motor Avenue, Salt Lake City, UT 84116. You can call the Division at 801-538-3800 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time). The website is dmv.utah.gov, where you can find local office addresses, hours, phone numbers, and appointment availability.
Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some may have extended hours or Saturday appointments. If you cannot reach the office by phone, you can submit a question through the website contact form, though responses may take several business days. For urgent matters like a suspended license, calling is faster.
If you are deaf or hard of hearing, the Division offers TTY services. Call the main office and ask for TTY information, or use the Utah Relay Service at 711. If you need documents in another language, bring a translator with you to your appointment, or ask the office in advance if they have interpreters available.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Utah driver's license after I pass the test?
Most offices issue your license on the spot after you pass both tests and your photo is taken. In some cases, the office may mail it to you within a few business days. Ask the staff at your office what to expect before you leave.
Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my permanent one?
Yes. If the Division mails your license, they will give you a temporary paper license at the office that is valid for 30 days. This temporary license allows you to drive legally while you wait for your permanent card to arrive.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test, usually after waiting a few days. You will have to schedule another appointment and pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, but you must pass before you can get your license.
Do I need a Real ID to drive in Utah?
A standard Utah driver's license is still valid for driving within the state. However, starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant license or passport to enter federal buildings or board domestic flights. You can get a Real ID license at any driver's license office by bringing proof of citizenship along with your other documents.
What if I lost my license or it was stolen?
Visit a driver's license office and explore for a replacement. Bring your proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a new license. The Division will issue a replacement with the same number and expiration date as your old license. There is a replacement fee, which varies depending on how long your license is valid.