Utah Driver License Division offices are your only option for getting a license

You cannot get a Utah driver's license online, by mail, or through a third party. You must visit a Driver License Division office in person, bring the required documents, pass the written and driving tests, and pay the fee. Utah operates Driver License Division offices in multiple cities across the state, and you can walk in without an appointment at most locations, though wait times vary by office and time of day.

The state does not use a separate testing vendor or allow private driving schools to issue licenses. Every step — document review, written test, driving test, and photo — happens at a Driver License Division office.

Key Takeaways

  • Utah Driver License Division offices are located in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, St. George, Moab, Vernal, and Price, plus a few smaller satellite locations.
  • You must bring original or certified documents proving identity, residency, and Social Security number; a copy alone will not work.
  • Most offices accept walk-ins, but you can also schedule an appointment online through the Utah Driver License Division website to reduce wait time.
  • You will take the written test and driving test on the same day if you pass the written portion, so plan for two to three hours total.
  • The current fee for a new driver's license is $35 for a four-year license or $60 for an eight-year license; fees may change annually.

Main Driver License Division office locations and hours

The largest and busiest office is in Salt Lake City at 160 East 300 South. This office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and handles the highest volume of applicants. Wait times here often run 30 minutes to over an hour during mid-morning and early afternoon, especially on Thursdays and Fridays.

Regional offices operate in Ogden (1675 West 12th Street), Provo (1385 North 820 West), St. George (1835 Convention Center Drive), Moab (82 East Center Street), Vernal (302 East Main Street), and Price (125 Carbon Avenue). Each has shorter wait times than Salt Lake City but may have more limited hours. Ogden and Provo are open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. St. George, Moab, Vernal, and Price have reduced hours and may close for lunch.

Before driving to any office, check the current hours on the Utah Driver License Division website, as hours change seasonally and offices occasionally close for staff training. You can also call ahead to ask about current wait times.

Documents you must bring to the office

Utah requires original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. You need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport, certified birth certificate, or a previous driver's license or ID card from any state.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Utah address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works.

For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. If you do not have your card, a document showing your number will work. If you have never had a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration before you can get a driver's license.

Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian and their ID as well.

How to schedule an appointment or walk in

You can schedule an appointment online through the Utah Driver License Division website by selecting your preferred office and time slot. Appointments typically open 30 days in advance and fill up fastest at the Salt Lake City office. Scheduling an appointment usually cuts your wait time in half compared to walking in.

Walk-ins are accepted at all offices during posted hours. Arrive early in the day — before 10:00 a.m. — if you want to avoid the longest waits. Avoid Thursdays and Fridays if possible, as these are the busiest days statewide.

If you have a complex situation — such as a name change, a previous suspension, or documents from outside the United States — call the Driver License Division at 801-538-3800 before you visit. Staff can tell you whether you need additional documents or whether you should visit a specific office.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, you will check in and submit your documents. A staff member will review them to confirm they meet Utah's requirements. If anything is missing or incorrect, you will be told what to bring back. You cannot proceed to testing without complete documentation.

Once your documents are approved, you will take the written test on a computer. The test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no extra cost, but you will wait in line again.

If you pass the written test, you will schedule your driving test for the same day if time allows, or for another day. For the driving test, you must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will ride with you and test your ability to handle basic driving tasks, parking, and following traffic laws. The test lasts about 20 minutes.

If you pass both tests, you will have your photo taken and pay the license fee. Your temporary license is printed on the spot, and your permanent card arrives by mail within two weeks.

Fees and payment methods

A new driver's license costs $35 for a four-year license or $60 for an eight-year license. Utah Driver License Division offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. They do not accept checks or payment plans.

If you are renewing an expired license, the cost is the same. If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, the fee is $20.

Fees are set by state law and may change. Check the Utah Driver License Division website or call ahead to confirm the current fee before you visit.

What to do if you cannot visit in person

Utah does not offer remote testing or mail-in licensing for new drivers. However, if you are unable to visit an office due to a medical condition or disability, call the Driver License Division at 801-538-3800 to ask about accommodations. Staff may be able to arrange a visit to your home or a modified testing process, though this is rare and requires advance approval.

If you are a Utah resident living temporarily outside the state, you can renew an existing license by mail, but you cannot obtain a new license remotely. You must return to Utah to take the tests in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online at home?

No. Utah requires you to take both the written and driving tests in person at a Driver License Division office. You cannot complete any part of the test remotely or at a private testing center.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

Walk-ins are accepted at all offices during business hours. Scheduling an appointment online usually reduces your wait time, but it is not required. Appointments fill up fastest at the Salt Lake City location.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test, but you must wait at least one day before your next attempt. You will pay the full license fee again when you pass. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

How long does it take to get a license on the day I visit?

Plan for two to three hours total, including wait time, document review, written test, and driving test. If you fail the written test and retake it, add another 30 to 60 minutes. Your temporary license prints the same day; your permanent card arrives by mail in about two weeks.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. You must be present for the photo and to receive your temporary license. Your permanent card is mailed to your address on file, so you do not need to pick it up in person.