Where the Vernal Driver's License Division is and what it handles

The Vernal Driver's License Division is a Utah Driver License office located in Vernal, Utah, serving Uintah County and the surrounding area. It is run by the Utah Division of Motor Vehicles, the state agency that issues driver's licenses, permits, and identification cards. If you live in or near Vernal, this office is where you go to take your written test, road test, renew your license, or replace a lost one.

Vernal is in northeastern Utah, about 170 miles from Salt Lake City. The office handles the same services as any other Utah Driver License Division location, but it is the closest option if you are in Uintah County. You cannot complete most driver's license transactions online or by mail — you must appear in person at a division office, and Vernal is the local one for that region.

The office is open during standard business hours, though hours vary by day and may change seasonally. Before you go, check the Utah Driver License website or call ahead to confirm current hours and to see if you need an appointment. Some services require one; others are first-come, first-served.

Key Takeaways

  • The Vernal Driver's License Division is the Utah state office in Vernal that issues licenses, permits, and ID cards for Uintah County residents.
  • You must go in person to take a written or road test, renew your license, or replace a lost or damaged one.
  • Hours vary by day and may change, so confirm the schedule on the Utah Driver License website or by phone before visiting.
  • Bring the documents required for your specific transaction — a new license, renewal, or replacement each has a different list.
  • Some services require an appointment; check ahead to avoid a wasted trip.

What documents you need to bring

The documents you need depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged card. Utah requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number for most transactions. A Real ID-compliant license requires additional documents.

For a first-time license or permit, bring a birth certificate or passport (identity), a recent utility bill or lease in your name (residency), and your Social Security card or a document showing your number. You will also need to pass a vision test and written test at the office. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.

For a renewal, you may be able to renew by mail or online if your license is not expired and you have not had violations or address changes. If you must renew in person, bring your current license and proof of residency. Check the Utah Driver License website to see if your renewal qualifies for mail or online renewal before making the trip to Vernal.

For a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged), bring your current license if you have it, or proof of identity and residency if you do not. The fee for a replacement is lower than a new license but higher than a renewal.

Taking your written test at Vernal

The written test covers Utah traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It is offered in English and several other languages. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. The test is computer-based and takes about 30 minutes.

Before you take the test, study the Utah Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the Utah Driver License website. The handbook covers everything on the test. Many people study it for a few days and pass on their first attempt; others take it multiple times. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, but you must pay the test fee each time.

If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day. Plan to arrive early and allow extra time if the office is busy. Bring your documents and be ready to pay the test fee in cash or card.

Taking your road test at Vernal

The road test is a 15- to 20-minute drive with an examiner in your vehicle. The examiner watches how you handle basic driving tasks: starting, stopping, turning, parking, and responding to traffic. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors.

You cannot use a vehicle with expired registration or insurance. If you are under 18, you may need to bring a parent or guardian. Schedule your road test in advance — walk-in road tests are not available at most offices, and Vernal may have a waiting list during busy seasons.

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring your written test pass confirmation, your documents, and proof that the vehicle is insured. If the examiner finds a safety issue with the vehicle, you will not be able to test that day. If you fail, you can retake it after a waiting period, usually a few days to a week.

Renewing your license in person versus by mail or online

Utah allows many people to renew their driver's license by mail or online without visiting an office. You are may be able to access for mail or online renewal if your license is not expired, you have no address changes, and you have no violations or suspensions. If you meet these conditions, renewing at home is faster and cheaper than going to Vernal.

If you cannot renew by mail or online — because your license is expired, you changed your address, or you have a suspension — you must renew in person at the Vernal office. Bring your current license and proof of residency. The in-person renewal fee is the same as the mail renewal fee, but you will spend time traveling and waiting.

Check the Utah Driver License website to see if you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal before you make the trip. If you are, use that option. If you are not, call Vernal to see if you need an appointment or if you can walk in.

Real ID and what it means for your Vernal visit

A Real ID is a driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards. It has a gold star in the upper right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. A standard Utah driver's license will no longer work for those purposes after that date.

Getting a Real ID requires more documents than a standard license. You need proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), proof of Social Security number, and proof of lawful presence in the United States (passport, visa, or work permit). If you are a U.S. citizen, your birth certificate and Social Security card usually cover this.

You can get a Real ID at the Vernal office when you renew or replace your license. The fee is the same as a standard license. If you are not sure whether you need a Real ID, ask the staff at Vernal — they can tell you based on your situation. Many people get one now to avoid problems after May 2025.

What to do if you have a suspension or restriction

If your license is suspended or restricted, you cannot renew it in person or by mail until the suspension is lifted. A suspension means you cannot drive at all. A restriction means you can drive only under certain conditions — for example, only during daylight hours or only to work.

Suspensions happen for reasons like unpaid traffic fines, unpaid child support, or too many violations. To lift a suspension, you must resolve the underlying issue — pay the fine, pay the support, or complete a required course. Once you have done that, contact the Utah Driver License office or the agency that imposed the suspension to confirm it has been removed from your record.

After the suspension is lifted, you can renew your license. If you have a restriction, you can renew, but the restriction will appear on your new license. Restrictions are usually temporary and expire on a set date. Ask the Vernal office what you need to do to have a restriction removed early, if that is possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to visit the Vernal Driver's License Division?

Some services require an appointment; others are first-come, first-served. Call the Vernal office or check the Utah Driver License website to see what is required for your specific transaction. Road tests almost always require an appointment and may have a waiting list.

Can I renew my license by mail if I live in Vernal?

Yes, if your license is not expired, you have no address changes, and you have no violations or suspensions. Check the Utah Driver License website to see if you are may be able to access. If you are, mail renewal is faster and cheaper than going to the office in person.

What if I fail my road test?

You can retake it after a waiting period, usually a few days to a week. Call the Vernal office to schedule your next test. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, but you must pay the test fee each time.

How much does it cost to get a license at the Vernal office?

Fees vary depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard license costs less than a Real ID. A renewal costs less than a new license. Call the Vernal office or check the Utah Driver License website for current fees.

What if I need a Real ID but I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use a passport or other document that proves your identity and citizenship. Ask the Vernal office what documents they will accept. If you do not have any of these, you may need to order a birth certificate from the state where you were born before you can get a Real ID.