What you need to do to get a new Utah driver's license
To get your first Utah driver's license, you must visit a Driver License Division office in person, pass a written test and a driving test, and provide documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. Utah does not issue licenses by mail or online. You will need to schedule an appointment through the Utah Driver License Division website or call your local office, because walk-ins are not may provide service.
The process takes at least two visits: one for the written test and one for the driving test, which must happen at least one day apart. Most people complete both within two weeks if they schedule efficiently and pass both tests on their first attempt.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Driver License Division office in person with an appointment; Utah does not issue first licenses online or by mail.
- Bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and two documents showing your current Utah address.
- You must pass a written knowledge test before you can take the driving test, and the tests must be at least one day apart.
- The driving test must be taken in a vehicle registered to you or someone who will be present during the test.
- Your new license arrives by mail within 10 to 15 business days after you pass the driving test.
Documents you must bring to your appointment
Bring your original or certified birth certificate. A photocopy is not acceptable. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or travel document instead. You will also need to prove your Social Security number—bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form.
For proof of Utah residency, bring two documents from this list: a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail addressed to you at your current address. The documents must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. A PO box does not count as a residential address.
Bring your current out-of-state driver's license if you have one. If you do not have one, bring your passport or another government-issued photo ID. You will also need to bring the vehicle you will use for the driving test, along with its registration and proof of insurance.
The written knowledge test
The written test covers Utah traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the official Utah Driver Handbook, which is free on the Driver License Division website. The test has 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. You get one attempt per visit, so if you fail, you must schedule another appointment.
The test is offered in English and several other languages. Tell the office staff which language you need when you arrive. You are allowed to use a dictionary or translation device during the test if English is not your first language.
After you pass the written test, you cannot take the driving test the same day. You must wait at least one calendar day before scheduling your driving test appointment.
The driving test and what happens after
The driving test lasts about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving decisions. You must use a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and horn before the test begins. If anything is broken or missing, you will not be allowed to test that day.
The person whose name is on the vehicle registration must be present during the test, or you must bring a notarized letter from that person giving you permission to use the vehicle. You cannot use a rental car or a vehicle borrowed from someone who is not present.
If you pass the driving test, the examiner will take your photo and give you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 10 to 15 business days. If you fail, you can schedule another test appointment, but you must wait at least one day.
Fees and payment
The fee for a new driver's license is $37. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the office. The fee covers the written test, driving test, and the license itself. If you fail the driving test and need to retake it, there is no additional fee for the second test attempt.
If you need a replacement license because yours was lost or stolen, the fee is different and the process is faster. That is handled as a separate transaction.
If you are under 18
Utah issues a Learner's Permit to drivers under 18 before they can take the driving test. You must hold the permit for at least 65 days and practice driving with a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the vehicle. During this time, you cannot drive alone, and you must follow nighttime driving restrictions.
After you have held the permit for 65 days and logged the required practice hours, you can schedule your driving test. The written test and driving test process are the same as for adults, but you must bring your Learner's Permit to the driving test appointment.
Once you pass the driving test, you receive a Restricted License until you turn 18. This license has additional restrictions on nighttime driving and passenger limits. At 18, you can exchange it for an unrestricted license at any Driver License Division office.
If you are renewing or replacing a license from another state
If you already have a valid driver's license from another state and you are moving to Utah, you do not need to take the written and driving tests again. Instead, you can exchange your out-of-state license for a Utah license by visiting a Driver License Division office with your out-of-state license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. The fee is $37, and your new license arrives by mail within 10 to 15 business days.
If your out-of-state license is expired, you will need to take both the written and driving tests as if you were getting your first license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test and driving test on the same day?
No. Utah requires at least one calendar day between the written test and the driving test. You must pass the written test first, then schedule a separate appointment for the driving test at least one day later.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can schedule another driving test appointment with no additional fee. You must wait at least one day before retesting. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but each attempt requires a new appointment.
Do I need a Social Security number to get a Utah driver's license?
Yes. You must provide proof of your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get a standard driver's license, but you may be able to get an ID card instead. Contact your local Driver License Division office to discuss your situation.
What if I move to a different address after I pass the driving test but before my license arrives?
Contact the Driver License Division office where you took the test and give them your new address. They will update your mailing address so your license is sent to the correct location. Do this as soon as possible after you move.
Can someone else pick up my license from the office for me?
No. Your license is mailed to your address automatically after you pass the driving test. You cannot pick it up at the office or have someone else collect it. If your mail is delayed or lost, contact the Driver License Division to request a replacement.