Applying for a New License (Drivers 18+) in Utah

1) Choose Your License

• Class D (applies to all cars)

• Driving Privilege Card (Utah residents who are ineligible for a Social Security card)

• Motorcycle endorsement

• Commercial (CDL) A, B and C

If you've never owned a driver's license, you must hold a learner's permit, regardless of age, and complete a driver education course before you can apply for a Utah driver's license. Applicants younger than 18 must hold their permit for a minimum of six months.

Driving Privilege Card

To apply, you must:

• Provide either your Social Security card or an individual tax identification number (ITIN)

• Provide two proofs of Utah residency if it differs from the address on your current Utah record.

• Provide proof of identity

• Provide proof of legal or lawful presence

• Provide proof of name change, if applicable

• Provide a completed fingerprint card and photo of yourself in a sealed envelope

• Pay $25 if you're older than 21, or $30 if you're younger than 21

2) Take a Driver's Education Course

All applicants, regardless of age, who have never been licensed must complete a state-approved driver education course.

3) Prepare for the Test

All written test questions are based on information contained in Utah's Driver Handbook. It ranks as the best study-source for the test. You'll probably also want to take a few practice tests.

4) Locate a DMV Office

Written tests are given on a walk-in basis at any driver license office.

5) Make Test-Day Preparations

For the test:

• Have your parent or guardian sign your application (assumption of responsibility), if you're younger than 18.

• Provide proof of name, birthday, Utah residency, legal presence if necessary, and Social Security number or ITIN.*

• Pay the applicable fees ($25 for an original license if you're older than 21, $30 if you're younger than 21).

*The best forms of ID are a state-issued birth certificate and Social Security card, but if these aren't available, the state will usually accept other approved forms of identification.

6) Take the Written Test

When you arrive at the driver license office, in addition to taking the written test (based on information contained in Utah's Driver Handbook) you must also complete a medical questionnaire and vision test.

You are allowed to take two tests in one day.

7) Get a Car

You'll eventually need a car to take Utah's road test. Plus, owning a car will allow you to practice on your own, besides in a driver training program.

Consider a used car that conforms with your budget, rather than one that complements image. Before deciding, be sure to obtain a vehicle history report. This will guard you from any hidden defects that could tap your wallet.

8) Get Car Insurance

Car insurance, regardless if you only own a permit, is mandatory. You can review different offered rates at our Insurance Center.

9) Take the Driving Test

You DO NOT have to take the driving test if you recently moved to Utah and own a valid out-of-state license.

In most instances you will be tested by your driver ed school. Or otherwise, you must make an appointment with your local driver license office.

When you arrive be sure to bring:

• A driver ed completion slip

• Your learner's permit (if applicable)

• Your current license from another state or country (if applicable)

• A functioning car that's registered and insured

Once You Pass

Your photo will be snapped and you'll be given a temporary license.

If You Fail

You are allowed to take only one test per day. After the third attempt, you must pay another fee.

10) Receive Your License in the Mail

Your permanent license should arrive within three weeks.

Non-Citizens

If you're visiting Utah from another country and have a valid license, you can drive. It's a good idea to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you visit. Many rental car agencies require the IDP.

If you're a non-citizen who becomes a resident, you'll have to obtain a Utah driver's license. You must follow the exact steps described above, with identification requirements being the lone difference.

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