Where the Orem Driver's License Division Is and What It Does
The Driver's License Division office in Orem, Utah is run by the state's Department of Public Safety. This is the physical location where you go to take your written test, road test, and pick up your license once it's issued. The Orem office serves residents across Utah County and surrounding areas, though you can also visit other Division offices around the state if another location is more convenient.
The Division handles all the practical steps after you've decided which license type you need. They administer the written knowledge test, conduct the behind-the-wheel road test, issue your actual license card, and handle renewals and replacements. If you're moving from another state or upgrading your license class, the Orem office processes those transactions too.
Key Takeaways
- The Orem Driver's License Division is located at 1160 South State Street, Orem, Utah 84058, and you can reach them at (801) 297-7780.
- You must bring a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or proof of ineligibility when you visit.
- The written test covers Utah traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the official Utah Driver Handbook available free online or in print at the office.
- Road tests are scheduled by appointment and test your ability to operate a vehicle safely in real traffic; bring a vehicle that passes safety inspection and a licensed adult if you're under 18.
- Hours and wait times vary by day and season, so calling ahead or checking online before you go saves time.
What Documents You Need to Bring
Before you visit the Orem office, gather your documents. You'll need a valid form of identification—a passport, birth certificate, or previous driver's license all work. You also need proof that you live in Utah: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address dated within the last 60 days.
Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, such as a W-2 or tax return. If you don't have a Social Security number, you'll need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you're ineligible. Minors (under 18) must also bring a parent or legal guardian, and that adult will need to show their own ID and sign consent forms.
If you're renewing or replacing a license, bring your current license or a receipt showing you've applied for a replacement. If you're upgrading to a commercial license, bring your current non-commercial license plus any medical certificates required for that class.
Taking the Written Knowledge Test
The written test at the Orem office covers Utah traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer multiple-choice questions on a computer terminal. The test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. You get one attempt per visit, though you can return on another day if you don't pass.
Study using the official Utah Driver Handbook, which the Division provides free online at dmv.utah.gov or in printed form at the Orem office. The handbook covers everything the test covers. Many people study for a few hours or a few days before taking the test; there's no set study time required.
The test is offered in English and several other languages. If you need an interpreter or have a disability that requires accommodation, call the Orem office ahead of time to arrange it. Testing accommodations are available but must be requested in advance.
Scheduling and Taking Your Road Test
After you pass the written test, you schedule a road test appointment. The Orem office conducts road tests during business hours on weekdays and some Saturdays. You can schedule by phone at (801) 297-7780 or online through the Division's website. Wait times for appointments vary; during busy seasons (spring and summer), you may wait several weeks, while winter appointments may be available sooner.
Bring a vehicle that's safe and legal to drive: working brakes, lights, wipers, and steering; current registration and proof of insurance; and a valid license plate. The examiner will inspect the vehicle before the test begins. If the vehicle fails inspection, you'll need to reschedule with a different vehicle.
If you're under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present during the road test. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks—starting, stopping, turning, parking, and driving in traffic—to show you can operate the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. The test typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes.
Getting Your License After You Pass
Once you pass both the written and road tests, the Division issues your license on the spot or within a few days, depending on how busy the office is. Your license is valid for eight years from the date of issue (or until your 21st birthday if you're under 13, or until your 25th birthday if you're 13 to 17). You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card by mail within two weeks.
Your license shows your name, date of birth, address, license number, and any restrictions or endorsements (such as corrective lenses required, or commercial driving privileges). Check the information for accuracy before you leave the office; correcting errors later is more complicated.
Office Location, Hours, and Contact Information
Address: 1160 South State Street, Orem, Utah 84058
Phone: (801) 297-7780
Website: dmv.utah.gov
Hours vary by season and day of the week. The office is typically open Monday through Friday during business hours, with limited Saturday hours. Call ahead or check the website for current hours, as they change seasonally and may be affected by holidays or staffing. Wait times are usually shorter early in the morning or mid-week; avoid peak times like late afternoon or Saturdays if you can.
If the Orem location is inconvenient, the Division operates offices in Salt Lake City, Provo, and other Utah cities. You can take your tests at any Division office, not just Orem. Some offices have shorter wait times or different hours, so it's worth checking if another location works better for your schedule.
What Happens If You Don't Pass
If you don't pass the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day—there's no waiting period between attempts. Most people who study the handbook pass on their second or third try. The Division doesn't charge extra for retakes; you pay once per visit regardless of how many times you test.
If you don't pass the road test, you can schedule another appointment. There's no limit to how many times you can take it, but you'll need to pay the test fee each time you schedule. Many people pass on their second attempt after practicing specific skills the examiner noted. You don't have to retake the written test unless your knowledge test result expires (which varies by state rules).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my road test in a borrowed vehicle?
Yes, as long as the vehicle is registered, insured, and passes the safety inspection the examiner performs before the test. The vehicle doesn't have to be registered in your name. Make sure the owner is comfortable with you using it and that you have permission to drive it.
What if I fail the road test—do I have to retake the written test too?
No. Your written test result stays valid while you schedule and take your road test. You only retake the written test if your result expires under Utah's rules, which the Division will tell you if it applies.
How long does it take to get my license card after I pass both tests?
You receive a temporary paper license when ready after passing. Your plastic card arrives by mail within two weeks. You can drive legally with the temporary license until the card arrives.
Do I need an appointment for the written test, or can I just walk in?
Walk-ins are usually accepted for the written test, but call ahead to confirm current policy and check wait times. Road tests always require a scheduled appointment.
What if I move after I get my license—do I need to update my address?
Yes. You can update your address online through dmv.utah.gov, by mail, or in person at any Division office. Updating online is the fastest option and doesn't require a new photo or test.