What You Need to Get a Utah Driver's License

Utah issues driver's licenses through the Driver License Division, part of the Department of Public Safety. To get one, you must be at least 16 years old, pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. If you're under 18, you'll also need a parent or guardian's signature on your process.

The state issues both a standard driver's license and an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), which allows you to cross the Canadian and Mexican borders by land without a passport. An EDL costs more and requires additional documentation, but it's optional.

Utah does not issue a REAL ID-compliant license as a separate product — all standard Utah driver's licenses now meet REAL ID requirements if you provide the correct documents. This means your Utah license will work for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings, as long as you've shown the right proof when you applied.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver License Division office in person with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to get a Utah driver's license.
  • Utah driver's licenses are REAL ID-compliant by default when you provide the required documents, so you don't need to request a special version.
  • If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process, and you'll have restrictions on driving hours and passengers until you turn 18.
  • You must pass both a written test on traffic laws and a behind-the-wheel driving test before the state will issue your license.
  • An Enhanced Driver's License is optional and costs extra, but it lets you cross land borders into Canada and Mexico without a passport.

Documents You Must Bring to the Driver License Office

Utah requires three categories of proof before you can get a driver's license. First, you need proof of identity: a birth certificate, passport, tribal ID, or military ID. Second, you need proof of residency: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and Utah address dated within the last 60 days. Third, you need your Social Security number — you can bring your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form.

If you're explore for an Enhanced Driver's License, you'll also need a passport or passport card, and you'll pay an additional fee on top of the standard license cost.

Bring the originals of these documents — photocopies are not accepted. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

The Written Test and Driving Test

Before you can get your license, you must pass Utah's written knowledge test, which covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test is offered in English and several other languages. You can study using the Utah Driver's License Handbook, which is free and available on the Driver License Division website.

After you pass the written test, you'll schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test with an examiner. The test takes about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, turning, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current.

If you fail either test, you can retake it. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you'll pay the test fee each time you take it.

Restrictions for Drivers Under 18

Utah issues a Learner's Permit to drivers aged 15 and older, and a Provisional License to drivers aged 16 and 17. Both come with restrictions designed to reduce crash risk for new drivers.

With a Learner's Permit, you must have a licensed adult (21 or older) in the front seat with you at all times. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. With a Provisional License, you can drive alone, but you still cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot have more than one passenger under 21 in the vehicle unless a parent or guardian is present. These restrictions lift when you turn 18.

To move from a Learner's Permit to a Provisional License, you must be at least 16, hold the permit for at least 6 months, and pass the driving test.

Where to Go and How Long It Takes

Utah has Driver License Division offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Driver License Division website. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require appointments. Call ahead or check online before you go, because wait times vary by location and time of day.

The written test can usually be completed the same day you visit, but the driving test may require a separate appointment. Processing times for your physical license vary — the state typically mails it within 2 to 3 weeks after you pass both tests.

If you need your license sooner, you can request a temporary paper license at the office, which is valid for 30 days while you wait for the permanent card.

Cost of a Utah Driver's License

A standard Utah driver's license costs $30 and is valid for 8 years. An Enhanced Driver's License costs $35 and is also valid for 8 years. These fees cover the license itself; the written test and driving test each have separate fees as well, though exact amounts vary by location.

If you renew your license before it expires, the cost is the same. If your license expires and you need to renew it, you may need to retake the written test depending on how long it has been expired.

Renewing Your Utah Driver's License

Utah driver's licenses are valid for 8 years. You can renew your license up to 6 months before it expires. You can renew in person at a Driver License Division office, or you can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had any violations or suspensions.

To renew by mail, send your current license, the renewal form (available on the Driver License Division website), and the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. The state will mail your new license to you.

If you renew in person, you do not need to retake the written or driving test unless your license has been expired for more than 3 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a REAL ID-compliant license to fly domestically in the US?

Yes, starting May 7, 2025, you will need either a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of federal ID (like a passport) to board a domestic flight. Utah driver's licenses are REAL ID-compliant by default if you provided the required documents when you applied, so you do not need to request a special version.

Can I get a Utah driver's license if I'm not a US citizen?

Yes. Utah issues driver's licenses to non-citizens who have a valid visa, work permit, or other immigration document. You must still provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number (or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number if you don't have a Social Security number). Bring your immigration document to the Driver License Division office.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay the test fee each time. Some people find it helpful to take additional driving lessons before retaking the test.

Can I renew my license online?

No, Utah does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have no violations or suspensions, or you can renew in person at a Driver License Division office.

What if my address changes after I get my license?

You can update your address at any Driver License Division office without getting a new license. Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) and your current license. There is no fee for an address change.