Welcome to Utah! If you need to get a driver’s or commercial driver’s license, motorcycle license, or special license in Utah, you’ve come to the right place! We’ll cover everything you need to know, including the steps and forms that are required to obtain these licenses. Let’s get started!
Types of Driver’s Licenses in Utah
Regardless of the type of driver’s license you want to obtain in Utah, you’ll need to visit your local Utah Department of Public Safety (UT DPS) branch to submit the required paperwork.
Class D – a Class D driver’s license is Utah’s standard driver’s license. With this license, you can operate common and recreational vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) that does not exceed 26,000 lbs., a giant van, or a minibus with a seating capacity of fewer than 15 people.
Commercial Driver’s Licenses – These driver’s licenses are required to operate commercial vehicles. The three commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) classes are A, B, and C.
- Class A (CDL) – This license allows you to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of at least 26,001 lbs., provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle it is towing is more than 10,000 lbs.
- Class B (CDL) – This license allows you to operate a single or any combination of vehicles with a GVWR of at least 26,000 lbs., pulling a trailer, or any vehicle with a GVWR of no more than 10,000 lbs.
- Class C (CDL) – This license allows you to operate a single or any combination of vehicles that transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or carries hazardous materials.
There are also endorsements you can add to your driver’s license or commercial driver’s license that allows you to operate motorcycles, taxi, school buses, and more. We’ll discuss these specifics later on in the article.
Utah Driver’s License Requirements
Individuals who are applying for a license for the first time are subject to specific eligibility requirements.
Driver’s Education
Driver’s Education (Driver’s Ed) is no longer required for all drivers who are applying for a new license. The current Utah driver’s license requirements are as follows:
- If you are 18 years of age or younger, you are required to complete a Driver’s Ed course.
- If you are at least 19 years of age, you are NOT required to complete a Driver’s Ed course IF you attain a permit for at least 90 days and complete at least 40 hours of driving practice. 10 of these hours must be driven at night.
New residents of Utah that have a valid license are NOT required to complete Driver’s Ed. However, if you are a new resident of Utah who does not yet hold a license but has completed Driver’s Ed, your course must meet the following standards to be accepted in Utah:
- A minimum of 27 hours of classroom instruction
- A minimum of 18 hours of classroom instruction for a commercial license
- At least 6 hours of practical driving instruction
Utah Learner’s Permits
If you are applying for a license for the first time anywhere, and you have not completed Driver’s Ed, you must obtain a learner’s permit and hold it for at least 90 days before taking your Utah driving test. This requirement does NOT apply to new residents who are surrendering a valid driver’s license from out of the state or country.
Applying for a Utah Driver’s License
To apply for your new driver’s license in Utah, you need to visit your local driver’s license office and take the following steps:
- Submit a completed Application for a Driver’s License (Form DLD6a)
- Provide proof of Driver’s Ed (if applicable)
- Pass the Traffic Safety and Trends Exam (available online at the DPS website)
- This test covers driving safety and the major causes of traffic-related deaths
- You must receive a 100% to pass the test
- You can retake the test as many times as necessary to pass
- Get your picture taken
- Complete the medical questionnaire
- Provide proof of ID, such as the following:
- Proof of identity
- Certified copy of your birth certificate
- Valid U.S. Passport
- Social Security number, such as the following:
- Social Security card
- W-2 form
- Residency (2 documents dated within 90 days), such as the following:
- Bank statement
- Current mortgage contract
- Proof of identity
- Pass the written permit test
- Pass a driving test
- Pay the $52 new driver’s license fee
Documents that are dated over 90 days will be reviewed by the DMV. The Driver’s License Division recommends that you schedule an appointment to avoid long lines and wait times. You can schedule your appointment using the department’s online appointment scheduler.
Utah New Driver’s License Driving Test
If you are required to complete a driving test (for example, this is your first time getting a license anywhere), you can schedule an appointment at a driver’s license office (after meeting all other licensing requirements, including the written test), or schedule a road test with a certified commercial school third-party tester.
To use a third-party tester, you must attain a license from a different country or a learner’s permit from the Utah Driver’s License Division, and present proof of identification.
You are NOT eligible to use a third-party tester if any of the following applies:
- You have a Utah driver’s license but have been asked to take a road test by a doctor, other medical professional, or police officer.
- You’ve been asked by the Driver’s License Division to complete additional Driver’s Ed hours.
Non-Citizens and Utah Driver’s Licenses
If you are applying for a Utah driver’s license as a non-citizen, you will receive either a Limited-Term license or a Driving Privilege Card, based on your legal status in the U.S. Individuals who reside in the U.S. legally who are NOT U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, or Permanent Resident Aliens will receive a Limited-Term License. Undocumented immigrants in the U.S. will receive a Driving Privilege Card.
Limited-Term Licenses
Non-Citizens who have legal status in the U.S. will receive a Limited-Term Driver’s License, which has the following conditions:
- The license will expire on the date of expiration on your legal presence document, or in 5 years (whichever comes first)
- If there is no expiration date, it will expire 1 year from the date it was issued.
The process for applying for a Limited-Term License is the same as those described when you apply for your Utah Driver’s License above.
Driving Privilege Cards
A Driving Privilege Card (DPC) is issued to applicants who are unable to establish a legal presence in the U.S. or ineligible for a Social Security number, which is required to get an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS.
DPCs have the following conditions:
- To obtain a DPC, you must be a Utah resident
- A valid DPC allows you to drive legally in Utah but it can NOT be used as proof of ID by a government entity
- A DPC expires on the document holder’s birthday in the first year following the issue date.
To apply for a DPC, all steps will be the same as when you apply for your Utah driver’s license above. However, you are also required to get a fingerprint card and photograph from a local agency. A $25 fee will apply for the fingerprint card (in addition to the standard license fee of $52).
Proof of ID for Non-Citizens
Non-citizens who are applying for any type of license have specific ID requirements. The Utah Driver’s License Division provides a complete list of accepted documents based on your status in the U.S. View the list here.
Acceptable Identification Documents in Utah
In Utah, there are different types of acceptable identification documents you can use when you’re applying for a UT driver’s license. Acceptable documents you can use to prove your identity can include one of the following:
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Armed forces ID cards
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Permanent resident card
- Foreign passport with a valid I-94 (the expiration date of the I-94 must be more than 2 months from the date you visit the office)
Examples of true and full name verification documents can include the following:
- Adoption documents that contain your legal name as a result of the adoption
- Name change documents that contain your legal name before and after the name change
- Marriage certificate
- Certificate of registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
- A dissolution of marriage document that contains your legal name as a result of the court order
Examples of acceptable residency documents can include the following:
- Resident utility bills (this can include cell phone bills)
- Insurance documents
- Utah vehicle or vessel title or registration
- A record of a financial institution (bank statement)
A legal guardian, parent, or child can use a birth certificate as proof of identity document. A spouse or domestic partner can use their marriage license or their domestic partner registration certificate to trace their relationship to the individual to whom the acceptable residency documentation was addressed.
Obtaining a Utah Driver’s License Under the Age of 18
The Utah Department of Public Safety (UT DPS) Driver’s License Division has a Graduated Driver’s Licensing (GDL) program in place for new drivers to obtain a Utah driver’s license. Teenage drivers who are younger than 21 years of age are required to follow rules and meet specific requirements in Utah, including Driver’s Education (Driver’s Ed).
Utah REAL ID Driver’s License
The Utah DPS began issuing federally compliant REAL ID driver’s licenses in 2010. As of October 1, 2021, the REAL ID will function as federal identification for domestic travel and entry into federal and military buildings.
New Residents of Utah
As a new resident of Utah, there is no grace period for you to apply for a Utah driver’s license. If you establish residency, you must switch your license to a Utah license as soon as possible.
To receive your Utah driver’s license, you must visit your local UT DMV branch and do the following:
- Submit a completed Driver’s License Application (Form DLD6a)
- Present your valid out-of-state driver’s license or proof you have completed Driver’s Ed (if applicable). If you can’t provide either of these, you will be issued a learner’s permit, which you must attain for at least 90 days.
- Provide proof of your identity, Social Security number, and 2 documents that prove your Utah residency.
- Pass the written and vision tests
- Pass a road test (if required)
- Have your photo taken
- Pay the nonrefundable fee: $52 if you are at least 21 years of age. $39 if you are 20 years of age or younger.
The Utah GDL Program
In Utah, if you are younger than 19 years of age, you are required to follow the guidelines set by the GDL program. The GDL program is designed to help you learn the defensive driving skills you need to drive safely and avoid traffic accidents.
You will be required to do the following:
- Obtain your UT learner’s permit
- Complete a Driver’s Ed course (if you are younger than 19 years old)
- Complete 40 hours of driving practice (10 of these hours must be driven at night)
- Apply for your full, unrestricted driver’s license
Age Requirements
Utah has the following age requirements:
- Learner’s permit: 15 years old
- Driver’s Ed enrollment: Once you have your learner’s permit
- Full driver’s license:
- If you are younger than 18 years of age: After obtaining a UT learner’s permit for 6 months, or upon turning 18 years old.
- If you are exactly 18 years of age: After completing a Driver’s Ed course
- If you are at least 19 years of age: After attaining your UT learner’s permit for 90 days, and practice driving for a minimum of 40 hours (10 hours driven at night) or upon completion of Driver’s Ed.
- If you previously held an out-of-state permit, contact the Utah DLD because requirements can vary.
Utah Learner’s Permit
You must be at least 15 years of age to apply for your Utah learner’s permit. To apply, you need to visit your local Utah driver’s license office and provide the following:
- Complete the Learner’s Permit Application (Form DLD6a). Your parent or guardian must sign this form for financial responsibility.
- Show proof of your birth certificate, Social Security number, and residence
- Pass the written test (25 questions) and vision test
- Complete a medical questionnaire
- Have your photo taken
- Pay the $19 learner’s permit fee (this fee is non-refundable)
Utah Behind-the-Wheel Driving Requirements
Before obtaining your full, unrestricted driver’s license, you are required to do the following:
- Practice driving for 40 hours (10 hours must be driven at night)
- Complete Driver’s Ed (if you’re younger than 19 years of age)
You are also required to attain your learner’s permit for a minimum period before you apply for your driver’s license.
- Younger than 18 years of age: 6 months, or until you turn 18 years of age (whichever comes first)
- 18 years of age: 90 days
- At least 19 years of age: 90 days or upon completion of a Driver’s Ed course
Full Unrestricted Utah Driver’s License
You can apply for your full, unrestricted Utah driver’s license once you’ve met the following criteria:
- Turned 16 years of age
- Completed 40 hours of behind-the-wheel practice (including 10 hours at night)
- Held your learner’s permit for:
- 6 months (or until you turn 18 years of age) – if you are younger than 18 years of age
- 90 days, if you are at least 19 years of age (this will be waived if you are at least 19 years of age and have completed a Driver’s Ed course in Utah.
- Passed the Traffic Safety and Trends Exam (available on the DPS website) – you must receive a score of 100% to pass this exam. You can retake the test as many times as needed to pass.
To apply for your Utah driver’s license, you’ll need to visit your local driver’s license office and do the following:
- Show proof of completion of your Driver’s Ed program (if applicable)
- Complete the Utah Driver’s License Application (Form DLD6a)
- Submit your Utah learner’s permit
- Provide your birth certificate, Social Security number, and proof of your Utah residency
- Have your parent or legal guardian sign your application and certify that you have completed the required driving practice time
- Have your photo taken
- Pass the vision test and complete a medical questionnaire
- Pass the road test (this test can be completed through your Driver’s Ed class)
- Pay the $39 driver’s license fee (this fee is non-refundable)
The UT DPS will issue you a temporary driver’s license in person. Your hard copy will be mailed to you within 6 weeks.
Utah Driver’s License Restrictions
If you’re under 17 years of age, you are not allowed to operate a motor vehicle between midnight and 5 AM. Except when you are accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age or driving for reasons related to employment, school-sponsored activities, farming/agriculture, or an emergency.
You are NOT allowed to drive with any passengers who are outside of your immediate family until 6 months after your Utah license was issued unless the following applies:
- You turn 18 years of age
- You are accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age
- You are in an emergency
- You are engaged in an agricultural operation
The Utah Written Exam and Road Test
The written knowledge test in Utah is based on information found in the Utah Driver’s Handbook. The questions you must answer are related to your specific written knowledge test(s) for the required license and/or endorsements. You are allowed to take 2 written knowledge tests in 1 day. After 3 attempts, you must pay a second fee.
If you have never obtained a license in Utah or any other state or country, you are required to complete a 50-question closed-book test. If you have been previously licensed in a different state or country and are applying for your first Utah driver’s license, you will be required to complete a 25-question open-book test.
When you are renewing your Utah driver’s license, if you have had more than 6 citations in 8 years, your license has been suspended or revoked, or your license has expired for more than 6 months, you will be required to take a 25-question open-book test.
Non-Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Utah
Taxicab drivers and chauffeurs require a class D license with a Z endorsement. No CDL is required. The endorsement costs $9. To obtain one, you must apply at a UT DMV field office. Additionally, you may be required to:
- Have a clean criminal background
- Have a clean driving record
- Pass a medical test
Off-Highway Vehicles
Off-highway vehicles, also referred to as all-terrain vehicles, require a safety certification before you can use the vehicle. Operators are required to have in hand either a motor vehicle operator’s license or a safety certificate while driving. The safety certification program is designed to develop and instill the knowledge, attitudes, habits, and skills necessary for the safe operation of an off-highway vehicle.
In addition, the program provides off-highway vehicle information and safety advice to the public and the training of off-highway vehicle operators. Be advised that some vehicles may require you to attain a motorcycle license or endorsement.
Married, Divorced, or Name Change?
If you have changed your name and are applying for a new UT driver’s license or ID card, you must provide documents that verify a legal name change. If you are applying for a Utah REAL ID, you must submit name change documentation, such as a marriage license, to be issued a Utah REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card in your true full name.
Examples of documents that establish your true full name can include the following:
- A marriage certificate
- Adoption documents that contain the legal names as a result of the adoption
- A name change document that contains the legal name of both before and after the name change
- A certificate, declaration, or registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
- A dissolution of marriage or domestic partnership document that contains the legal name as a result of the court action
Does the REAL ID Act Impact Residents of Utah?
Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005. This act establishes the minimum-security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards. The REAL ID Act also prohibits federal agencies, including the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), from accepting state-issued driver’s licenses or identification cars that do not meet the minimum standards.
A REAL ID is intended to improve the reality and accuracy of driver’s licenses and identification cards while decreasing the ability of terrorists and others from avoiding detection by using fraudulent identification.
If you have visited a driver’s license office and qualified for a Utah driver’s license or ID card since January 2010, you are eligible to receive a driver’s license or ID card with the REAL ID markings. A driving privilege card is NOT REAL ID-compliant.
If your Utah driver’s license or ID card expires before October 1, 2020, you will receive a license or ID card with the REAL ID indicator (a star in the top right corner) through the standards renewal process. If your driver’s license or ID card expires after October 1, 2020, you will receive a complimentary driver’s license or ID card with the REAL ID indicator in the mail. This complimentary license or identification card will have the same expiration date as your current license or ID card.
Is Obtaining a REAL ID Mandatory in Utah?
Obtaining a federal-compliant REAL ID or REAL DRIVER’S LICENSE is optional. If you have documents that are approved by TSA, you can use these documents to pass TSA checkpoints at airport terminals nationwide and visit secure federal buildings or military installations at any time.
If you don’t have plans to board a domestic flight or visit a secure federal facility or military base, you are NOT required to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or identification card. You are also not required to have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card to perform any of the following options:
- Drive
- Vote
- Enter a federal facility that does NOT require an ID (such as a post office)
- Visit a hospital or receive life-saving services
- Apply for or receive federal benefits (Social Security Administration (SSA), Veterans Affairs, etc.)
How Do You Prepare to Apply for a REAL ID Card?
There are different steps you are required to take to apply for a REAL ID in Utah. Although these types of driver’s licenses or ID cards are NOT required, they’re good to have handy in many situations.
To successfully apply for a REAL ID card, you must take the following steps:
- Provide a valid proof of identity (certified birth certificate or passport)
- Provide 2 Utah proof of residency documents
- Present proof of your SSN
Applying for a Commercial Driver’s License in Utah
Driving a commercial vehicle can be an excellent way to make a living. To do so, you first have to obtain your commercial driver’s license (CDL). You must follow all national regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and abide by the licensing process in Utah that is overseen by the Driver’s License Division (DLD).
Important Federal Training Requirements Update
Per the new federal entry-level driver training requirements effective February 7, 2022, the UT Driver’s License Division now mandates new CDL applicants complete an entry-level driver training course through an authorized provider.
You must complete this training before applying for your first commercial driver’s license, upgrading your existing CDL class, or applying for a HAZMAT, school bus, or passenger endorsement.
Who Can Get a Utah CDL?
To be eligible for a Utah commercial learner’s permit (CLP), you must be a Utah residency and be at least 18 years of age. You must also already have at least 1 year of driving experience with a non-CDL license.
Be advised that applicants who are under 21 years of age will only be permitted to drive commercial motor vehicles within Utah, and will NOT be eligible to apply for the following endorsements:
- HAZMAT
- Passenger vehicles
- School buses
Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Utah
You will be required to have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) if you plan to do any of the following:
- You plan to transport at least 16 passengers (including yourself)
- You plan to operate a vehicle with a GVWR over 26,001 lbs. or two a trailer over 10,000 lbs.
- You will be transporting any kind of hazardous materials
Depending on what kind of work you do, you will receive either a Class A, B, or C license. If you will only be driving your family and friends in a personal vehicle, you will NOT be required to get a CDL. Farmers are not required to have a Utah CDL as long as no one is hiring them for transport. Military personnel who operate this equipment as part of their duties do not need a CDL.
Utah School Buses and Passenger Transportation
To operate a school bus in Utah, you must have a Class C CDL with a school bus endorsement. You may also need to do the following:
- Pass a criminal background check
- Maintain a clean driving record
- Pass a medical certification
Other endorsements require specific written tests. You may also have to complete a behind-the-wheel exam. Make sure you have enough time to complete the test(s) because these special written tests often take longer to complete than standard written driving tests.
Utah Commercial Learner’s Permits
Before you can get your Utah commercial driver’s license, you must attain a commercial learner’s permit (CLP). This process can be complicated, so it may be in your best interest to complete a CDL education course before applying.
When you’re ready to proceed, find a local DLD office where you can schedule a CDL appointment. Once you arrive at your appointment, you must do the following:
- Provide a completed Commercial Driver’s License Application (From DLD6a)
- Present proof of the following:
- Your U.S. citizenship/lawful permanent residency
- Your full Social Security Number (SSN)
- Your Utah residency
- Submit the proper medical paperwork
- Pass an eye exam
- Submit a driving record check
- Pay the $52 CLP fee, plus any additional fees for endorsements
Once you have the required paperwork sorted, you must also pass all written exams for the type of CDL you want, including any endorsements, if applicable. You will be allowed up to 2 attempts to pass your exam. After that, you will be charged $26 to retake the tests.
Once you’ve completed the steps above, the DLD will issue your commercial learner’s permit. Congratulations!
Acceptable Citizenship/SSN/Residency Documentation
Citizenship/Permanent Residency Documents
The Utah Driver’s License Division will accept the following documents to prove your U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency:
- A valid, unexpired U.S. passport
- A certified copy of your outstanding birth certificate
- A Certificate of Naturalization
- A valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card
Be advised that if your legal name is now different than the name on these documents due to marriage, divorce, or for other reasons, you must also bring in the legal documentation showing that your name change was approved.
Proof of Social Security Number
You can bring in any of the following documents to prove your SSN to the DLD:
- Your Social Security card
- A tax form
- A pay stub
All documentation must include your name and full Social Security number. If you aren’t eligible for an SSN, you will need a letter from the Social Security Administration explaining that you can NOT have one due to your legal/lawful presence status.
Proof of Utah Residency
You must bring 2 documents that are no more than 90 days old from the following list to prove your Utah residency:
- A bank statement
- Court documents
- A current mortgage or rental contract
- A major credit card bill
- A school transcript
- Your current vehicle title
- A utility bill
Any acceptable document must include your name and full address. Documents that are dated over 90 days will be reviewed by the Division to determine if they are acceptable.
Utah CLP Restrictions
Your CLP will come with a set of rules, just like a permit to operate a standard car or truck. Utah commercial learner’s permits are valid for 6 months. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration requires all applicants to keep their CLP for at least 14 days before proceeding to their skills test, but each state can set its standards, so the timeframe could be different for you. Ask your local Driver’s License Division office about the waiting period in Utah.
In the meantime, federal regulations require all drivers with a commercial learner’s permit to operate motor vehicles on public roads only, and only while accompanied by a full CDL-holder who is permitted to operate the same class of vehicle.
How to Get Your Utah CDL
Once the appropriate amount of time has passed and you’re ready to continue the process, it’s time to take your Utah CDL skills test. This is the last step to obtaining your CDL. You can schedule an appointment to complete the exams at a third-party testing facility, or at the same local Driver’s License Division office where your CLP was issued.
Make sure you bring the following to your appointment:
- Your commercial learner’s permit
- Any necessary medical paperwork
- The $78 testing fee
- The DLD will give you 2 attempts to pass the test, after which additional retests will cost $52 each
- Third-party tester fees will vary. Call ahead and ask about specific pricing
- An appropriate vehicle that is the class of vehicle you’ll need to earn your CDL
You will be asked to complete the following tests:
- Pre-trip inspection
- Basic skills test
- Road test
You may be required to complete additional tests depending on the class of CDL you’re applying for and whether you’re adding any endorsements to your CDL. Once you pass the necessary tests, you’ll receive a temporary photo license on the same day as your skills test. Your permanent license should be mailed to you within approximately 6 weeks.
Be advised that third-party testers will provide a vehicle for you to complete your test in, but most DLD offices WILL NOT. You may want to consider renting a vehicle for an additional fee. Either way, you must arrange to take the test in the same class of vehicle you plan on driving with your CDL, or a restriction may be placed on your license.
How Much Does a Utah CDL Cost?
The Utah Driver’s License Department charges the following fees for a Utah CDL and related services:
- Commercial learner’s permit application: $52
- Skills test: $78
- Endorsement exams: $9 each
- Retesting fees:
- Written exams: $26 each
- Skills tests: $52 each
- Endorsement exams: $9
- Rescheduling fee: $25
You may also complete your skills exams with a third-party tester, where fees will vary.
Utah CDL Medical Requirements
Before you can operate a commercial vehicle in Utah, you must be deemed physically fit for the job. The Utah DLD requires all CDL applicants to prove their physical fitness by providing a completed:
- Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876). This form must be completed by an FMCSA-approved physician and is valid for a maximum of 2 years.
- Commercial Driver’s License Medical Self Certification (Form CDL-42.) This self-certification must be resubmitted every 2 years or when your driving status changes.
Keep in mind that you must have your medical paperwork ready before you apply for your commercial learner’s permit.
Military CDL Waivers in Utah
If you have experience operating commercial vehicles or the military equivalent while in the service, the Utah Driver’s License Department may waive your CDL skills tests. To qualify for a military waiver, you must be a current member of the military or have been honorably discharged within the page 1 year and have driven commercial vehicles in the 2 years before you left the service. To be eligible, you and your commanding officer must complete the Application for Military Skills Test Waiver (Form CDL-ST WVR).
Federal Self-Certification Requirements
You must self-certify the type of vehicle you’re operating with the Utah DPS using one of the following driving categories:
- Non-Excepted Interstate
- Excepted Interstate
- Non-Excepted Intrastate
- Excepted Intrastate
Applying for a Utah Motorcycle License
The Beehive State has many different beautiful sites and locations. If you plan to go on adventures on your motorcycle throughout Utah, you’ll need a motorcycle license.
New Residents of Utah
Utah doesn’t have a specific period by which you must switch your driver’s license over. However, the state of Utah makes it clear that all residents must have a Utah license, so transfer your license as soon as possible.
The Utah DLD considers anyone who lives in Utah for more than 6 months during any 1 calendar year to be a state resident. If you currently have a motorcycle license or endorsement you need to transfer, you’ll follow the same steps as you would to transfer your driver’s license. Here’s how to transfer your current motorcycle endorsement if you have one.
Utah Motorcycle Endorsement Eligibility
To qualify for a Utah motorcycle endorsement, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Have a Utah driver’s license
- Complete a medical questionnaire
- Pass a written exam and vision test
- Pass a motorcycle skills test
- Pay all applicable fees
You can bypass the skills test by passing a Utah motorcycle rider course.
Utah Motorcycle Permits
Before you can ride off into the sunset, you need to learn how to ride your motorcycle or prove that you know how to ride your motorcycle. This is the point where your Utah motorcycle permit comes in.
To earn your Utah motorcycle permit, you must visit your local UT DLD branch and:
- Submit the following:
- Your Utah driver’s license
- 2 documents that prove your UT residency (if your address has changed since receiving your driver’s license).
- Complete the Driver’s License/ID Application (Form DLD6a)
- Complete a medical questionnaire
- Take a vision test
- Pass the motorcycle written exam
- Have your photo taken
The Utah DLD may charge additional fees for the written test. Ask your local DLD branch for more information regarding their fees. Once you complete the above steps, you will receive your motorcycle permit to start practicing.
Utah Permit Limitations
You have your Utah motorcycle permit. This is exciting news! Now that you have your motorcycle permit, you must follow specific rules. While practicing with your Utah motorcycle permit, you will NOT be allowed to do any of the following:
- Carry any passengers
- Ride between 10 PM and 6 AM
- Ride on highways with speed limits higher than 60 MPH (this rule is effective for the first 2 months of having your permit)
Your permit will be valid for 6 months. The above restrictions will be lifted after you’ve had your motorcycle permit for at least 2 months. If you are under 19 years of age, you must have your motorcycle permit for at least 2 months before you can complete your skills test. However, this requirement will be waived if you complete a Utah motorcycle rider course.
Utah Motorcycle Skills Test and Endorsement
This step is the last step you need to take before you can receive your Utah motorcycle license. You can skip this test if you pass the Utah motorcycle rider course. If you choose to take the DLD route, you must schedule an appointment with the same Driver’s License Division branch where you took your written test and do the following:
- Bring your Utah driver’s license and motorcycle permit
- Complete the skills test
- Pay the $18 motorcycle endorsement fee
Since a motorcycle endorsement will be added to your Utah driver’s license, you must also complete the Driver’s License/ID Card Application (Form DLD6a) to either renew your license to add the endorsement. You will take this step if your current license will expire in 6 months or less. You will also be required to pay the $25 renewal fee.
You may also be required to order a duplicate license to add the motorcycle endorsement. You will complete this step if your current license expiration date is more than 6 months away. The duplicate fee is $23. The Utah DLD will mail your new license with your motorcycle endorsement within 6 weeks.
Utah Motorcycle Rider Courses
There are different ways you can earn your Utah motorcycle license. If you want to skip the DLD skills test, you can enroll in a UT motorcycle rider course. You must call a state-approved motorcycle school to find out more information on the following:
- Age requirements
- Course prices
- Registration process
If you pass the course, you will receive a skills test waiver card. Keep this card in a safe place. You’ll need it when you go to your local DLD branch to receive your motorcycle endorsement. However, completing this course will not exempt you from taking the UT motorcycle written test and completing the endorsement application process.
Utah Motorcycle Endorsement Fees
The Utah DLD charges the following for motorcycle endorsements and related fees:
- Motorcycle endorsement: $18
- License renewal (to add an endorsement): $52 – you will use this method if your current license expires in 6 months or less.
- Duplicate license (to add an endorsement): $23 – you will use this method if your current license expires in more than 6 months
The Utah DLD may charge additional fees for the motorcycle knowledge test and the motorcycle skills test. You can contact your local UT DLD branch for more information about their fees.
Utah DPS Locations
You’ll find a lot of DPS locations throughout the state of Utah. It’s best to choose the DPS that is local to you. We’ve listed a few DPS locations to help you save time.
Utah DPS – Salt Lake City Branch
2780 W. 4700 S.
Salt Lake City, UT 84129
(801) 965-4437
Call for business hours
Utah DPS – Ogden Branch
615 E. 5300 S.
Ste. 1
Ogden, UT 84405
(801) 476-7700
Monday – Friday (8:30 AM – 4:30 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)
Utah DPS – Taylorsville Branch
4501 S. Constitution Blvd. Fl. 1
Taylorsville, UT 84129
(801) 965-4437
Monday – Friday (8 AM – 5 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)