What You Need to Do to Replace Your Utah License

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Utah driver's license, you must visit a Driver License Division office in person with proof of identity and residency. Utah does not issue replacements by mail or online. The process takes about 15 minutes at the office, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

You have two main routes: renew your license at the same time you replace it, or replace it only. Most people choose to replace and renew together if their license is expiring soon, since you're already there. If your license is current and valid, you can replace it alone without renewing.

Key Takeaways

  • You must go to a Driver License Division office in person with a valid ID and proof you live in Utah.
  • Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a birth certificate or Social Security card.
  • The replacement fee is $20 if you're only replacing your license, or $35 if you replace and renew at the same time.
  • You'll get a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to the police first, though it's not required to get a replacement.

Documents You Must Bring to the Office

Bring one form of valid photo ID, such as a passport, military ID, or tribal ID. If you don't have a photo ID, you can bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card.

You also need proof that you live in Utah. Acceptable documents include a recent utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your current address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement usually does not work.

Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it. If you don't have your card, a birth certificate, W-2, or tax return will work. You'll also need to know your current license number if you have it, though the office can look it up if you don't.

Where to Go and How to Find an Office

The Driver License Division operates offices in Salt Lake City, Ogden, Provo, St. George, Cedar City, Moab, Vernal, and Richfield. You can visit any office regardless of where you live in Utah. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some offering limited Saturday hours.

Find the office nearest you and check current hours on the Utah Driver License Division website. Call ahead if you want to confirm wait times, though walk-ins are accepted at all locations. Some offices are busier than others; early morning or mid-week visits typically mean shorter waits.

The Cost and Payment Methods

A replacement license costs $20. If you're replacing and renewing your license at the same time, the total is $35. The Driver License Division accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Some offices may have ATMs on-site if you need cash.

There is no fee waiver for lost or stolen licenses. The cost is the same whether your license was damaged, lost, or stolen. If you're a military member on active duty, you may be able to renew by mail instead of in person, but replacement still requires an office visit.

What Happens After You Pay

You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready after you pay. This temporary license is valid for driving and is recognized by law enforcement. Write down the temporary license number and keep it with you while you wait for your plastic card.

Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address you provide at the office. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, ask the office whether expedited mail is available; some locations offer it for an additional fee. Once your plastic card arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid, though you should keep it for your records.

If Your License Was Stolen

Reporting a stolen license to police is not required to get a replacement, but it's a good idea if you're concerned about identity theft. A police report creates a record and may help if someone tries to use your license number fraudulently. You can file a report online through your local police department's website or in person at a police station.

Whether or not you file a police report, proceed with your replacement as normal. The Driver License Division will issue you a new license number if your old one was stolen, which protects you from someone else using your old number. Ask the office staff to note in your file that your license was stolen; this creates an extra layer of documentation.

What to Do If You Can't Go in Person

Utah does not allow replacements by mail, phone, or online. You must visit an office in person. If you are unable to travel due to a medical condition or disability, call the Driver License Division to ask about accommodations. Some offices may be able to work with you on scheduling or accessibility.

If you are out of state temporarily, you can wait until you return to Utah to replace your license. Your temporary paper license is valid for driving in other states. If you need to replace your license while out of state permanently, you'll need to transfer your license to your new state instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if it's expired?

Yes. You can replace an expired license without renewing it, though most people choose to renew at the same time since they're already at the office. If you replace only, your new license will have the same expiration date as your old one. If you renew, you'll get a new license valid for eight years.

What if I don't have proof of residency?

You must have a document showing your Utah address dated within the last 60 days. If you recently moved and don't have a utility bill or lease yet, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on letterhead showing your address. Some offices accept a notarized statement from a resident at your address, though call ahead to confirm.

How long is the temporary paper license good for?

Your temporary paper license is valid until your plastic card arrives, which is usually 7 to 10 business days. If your plastic card doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the Driver License Division. Do not rely on the temporary license for more than 30 days; if it hasn't arrived by then, call to report it missing.

Do I need to bring my old license if I still have it?

No. If your license is lost or stolen, you won't have it to bring. If your license is damaged but still readable, you can bring it, but it's not required. The office will look up your information in their system using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must be present at the office to receive your temporary paper license. Your plastic card will be mailed to the address you provide, so no one else needs to pick it up. If you need someone to help you at the office, they can accompany you, but you must sign the paperwork yourself.