What you need to do to switch your license to Utah
If you are moving to Utah or have recently become a resident, you will need to get a Utah driver's license to replace your current out-of-state license. Utah law requires you to obtain a Utah license within 60 days of establishing residency. The process involves visiting a Driver License Division office in person, passing a written test and vision screening, and paying a fee. You cannot renew an out-of-state license while living in Utah — you must convert to a Utah license instead.
The exact steps depend on whether you already hold a valid driver's license from another state. If you do, you can skip the road test but will still need to pass the written test. If your out-of-state license has expired or you have never held a license, you will follow the full new-driver process, which includes a road test.
Key Takeaways
- You have 60 days from the date you become a Utah resident to obtain a Utah driver's license.
- You must visit a Driver License Division office in person with proof of residency, identity, and Social Security number.
- If you hold a valid out-of-state license, you skip the road test but must pass Utah's written test and vision screening.
- The fee for a standard Utah driver's license is $32 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license.
- Your new Utah license will be mailed to you within 10 business days; you can drive on your out-of-state license until it arrives.
Documents you must bring to the Driver License Division office
Utah requires three categories of documents at your appointment: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for most documents.
For proof of identity, bring your current out-of-state driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax notice in your name with your Utah address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form.
If you are under 21, you will also need a certified copy of your birth certificate or passport. If you have changed your name since your out-of-state license was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.
The written test and vision screening
At your appointment, you will take Utah's written knowledge test, which covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 25 questions, and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or Spanish. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no extra cost.
You will also have your vision screened at the office. The screener will check your visual acuity and peripheral vision. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you will be referred to an eye care professional and will not receive your license until you return with proof that your vision meets Utah's standards.
If you hold a valid driver's license from another state, you do not need to take a road test. Your out-of-state driving record will be reviewed, and if it is clean, you will move forward to payment and photo. If your record shows serious violations, Utah may require you to take a road test anyway.
When you can skip the road test
You will not take a road test if you currently hold a valid driver's license from any U.S. state, Canada, or certain other countries. Utah recognizes these licenses as proof that you can drive safely. The Driver License Division will request your driving record from your previous state to confirm the license is valid and in good standing.
If your out-of-state license has expired, you will need to take a road test. The same applies if you have never held a driver's license or if your license was suspended or revoked. If you are unsure whether your record will require a road test, call the Driver License Division before your appointment.
Fees and how long the process takes
A standard Utah driver's license costs $32 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license. You can choose which term you prefer when you pay. Payment is made at the Driver License Division office by cash, check, or debit card. Credit cards are not accepted.
Your new license will be mailed to your Utah address within 10 business days. You can legally drive on your out-of-state license until your Utah license arrives, even though the 60-day important date has passed — the law allows this grace period for mail delivery. Do not drive on an expired out-of-state license; if your previous license has expired, you must have your Utah license in hand before driving.
Finding a Driver License Division office near you
Utah has Driver License Division offices in most counties. The main office is located in Salt Lake City, but you can visit any office in the state — you do not have to go to the one in your county. Hours vary by location, and some offices accept walk-ins while others require appointments. Check the Utah Driver License Division website or call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need to schedule.
If you live in a rural area far from an office, some counties offer mobile services or satellite offices on certain days. Call your county clerk's office to ask whether this option is available to you.
What happens if you drive without a Utah license after the 60-day important date
Driving on an out-of-state license after you have been a Utah resident for 60 days is a violation. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can be cited and fined. The fine amount varies, but it is typically between $50 and $100. You will also be required to obtain your Utah license before you can legally drive again.
The 60-day clock starts from the date you establish residency in Utah, not from the date you move into a home. Residency is established when you move with the intent to stay, even if you have not yet registered a vehicle or updated your address with the post office. If you are unsure of your residency date, contact the Driver License Division.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to take the written test if I already have a valid driver's license from another state?
Yes, you must pass Utah's written test even if your out-of-state license is valid. However, you will not take a road test. The written test covers Utah-specific traffic laws and road signs, so studying the Utah Driver Handbook before your appointment will help you pass on the first try.
Can I renew my out-of-state license while living in Utah?
No. Once you become a Utah resident, you must convert to a Utah license. You cannot renew an out-of-state license by mail or online while living in Utah. Your only option is to visit a Driver License Division office and obtain a Utah license.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test when ready at the same office at no additional cost. Most people pass on the second attempt. If you fail a second time, you may be asked to return on another day after studying more. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but each attempt after the first two may have a small fee.
How do I know what my residency date is?
Your residency date is the date you moved to Utah with the intent to stay. This is typically the date you signed a lease, closed on a home purchase, or moved into a residence. If you are unsure, the Driver License Division can help you determine this date based on your documentation.
Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my new Utah license to arrive?
No, Utah does not issue temporary licenses. However, you can legally drive on your valid out-of-state license until your Utah license arrives in the mail, even if the 60-day important date has passed. Once your Utah license arrives, you must use it for all driving.