The documents Utah requires before you can get a license

Utah requires you to bring six types of documents to the Driver License Division office: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of Utah residency, proof of legal presence, your current license or ID (if you have one), and a completed process form. You cannot get a Utah license without all six categories filled. The state does not accept digital or mobile versions of these documents — you must bring originals or certified copies in person.

The specific documents that work in each category vary, and some documents can count toward more than one requirement. For example, a U.S. passport proves both identity and legal presence at the same time. Knowing which documents you already have at home can save you a trip to gather paperwork before you go to the office.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted by the Driver License Division.
  • A U.S. passport or passport card covers both identity and legal presence, so it reduces the number of documents you need to gather.
  • Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
  • If you do not have a Social Security number, you can request a letter from the Social Security Administration instead.
  • You must complete the DL-43 form (process for a Utah Driver License) before or when you arrive at the office.

Proof of identity documents that Utah accepts

Utah accepts a limited list of documents to prove who you are. A U.S. passport or passport card is the strongest option because it also proves legal presence. A certified birth certificate (the long-form version with a raised seal, not a photocopy) works for identity. A foreign passport is acceptable only if you also bring a separate document proving legal presence in the U.S.

If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, you can use a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. Native American tribal members can also use a tribal ID card issued by a federally recognized tribe. The document must be an original or certified copy — the Driver License Division will not accept a photocopy or a digital image on your phone.

Proof of Social Security number

You need to show a document with your Social Security number on it. A Social Security card is the most straightforward option. A W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document with your full Social Security number also works. A letter from your employer showing your Social Security number is acceptable as well.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. This letter must be dated within the last 12 months. You will need to request this letter directly from the Social Security Administration by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting ssa.gov.

Proof of Utah residency

You must show that you live in Utah. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name works. A lease agreement or rental agreement also counts, as long as it shows your name and current address. A mortgage statement, property tax notice, or homeowner's insurance bill will work as well.

Bank statements, credit card statements, and government benefit letters (such as unemployment or SNAP statements) are also accepted if they show your name and Utah address and are dated within 60 days. If you are a minor living with a parent or guardian, you can use a document in the parent's or guardian's name as long as you bring a document showing your relationship to them, such as a birth certificate.

Proof of legal presence in the United States

Utah requires proof that you are legally allowed to be in the U.S. A U.S. passport or passport card is the easiest document because it covers this requirement on its own. A Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship also proves legal presence. A foreign passport paired with a valid visa or travel document (such as an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record) works as well.

If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card (Permanent Resident Card). If you have a work visa or student visa, bring the visa itself along with your passport. Refugees and asylees can use their Refugee Travel Document or Asylee Travel Document. If you are unsure whether your visa or status document is current, check the expiration date before you go to the office — expired documents will not be accepted.

Your current license or ID and the process form

If you already have a driver's license, state ID card, or passport, bring it with you. If you do not have any of these, you do not need to bring anything for this step. The Driver License Division will keep your old license or ID when you turn in your new one.

You must also bring a completed DL-43 form (process for a Utah Driver License). You can read and fill out the form at home before you go to the office, or you can fill it out at the office when you arrive. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and other basic information. Bring a pen so you can sign the form in front of a Driver License Division employee.

What to do if you are missing a document

If you do not have one of the required documents, do not go to the office yet. Contact the Driver License Division at 801-297-7780 before your visit to ask what alternatives they will accept. Some documents can be obtained quickly — for example, you can request a certified birth certificate from the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, though it may take one to two weeks. A Social Security card can be replaced through the Social Security Administration.

If you are a non-citizen with a visa or travel document that is expiring soon, renew it before you go to get your license. The Driver License Division cannot issue a license if your legal presence document is expired or will expire within a short time. Planning ahead prevents a wasted trip and delays in getting your license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy or image on my phone instead of the original document?

No. The Driver License Division requires original documents or certified copies only. Photocopies and digital images on your phone will not be accepted. If you have a certified copy from a government office, that counts as an original for this purpose.

Does my lease agreement have to be in my name only, or can it be in my roommate's name?

Your lease should be in your name. If it is in your roommate's name, you will need to bring an additional document showing your relationship to them or your right to live there, such as a notarized letter from the leaseholder or a utility bill in your name.

What if my birth certificate does not have a raised seal?

A birth certificate without a raised seal is a photocopy and will not be accepted. You need to order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This usually costs between $10 and $30 and takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail.

Can I use my passport card instead of a full passport?

Yes. A U.S. passport card is accepted and works for both identity and legal presence, just like a full passport. It is smaller and easier to carry, but it cannot be used for international travel by air.

What happens if my residency document is dated more than 60 days ago?

It will not be accepted. You will need to bring a different document dated within the last 60 days, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement. If all your documents are older, contact the Driver License Division before your visit to ask what options are available.