Getting your Utah learner permit

By the end of this topic you can

• You can book the right type of DLD appointment and fill in the online application.
• You can gather the identity, Social Security and residency documents you need.
• You can explain the vision standard and what happens if you fail the eye test.
• You can name who may sit beside you while you drive on a permit.

What you need to know and understand

• You must be at least 15 to get an entry-level learner permit.
• The handbook lists the learner permit fee as $19; check the DLD for the current amount.
• The entry-level permit is valid for 18 months, and so is the knowledge test score.
• You need 20/40 vision in at least one eye and at least a 90-degree field of vision.
• Applicants under 18 need a parent, guardian or responsible adult to accept financial responsibility.
• Documents must be originals or certified copies; photocopies and faxes are refused.
• A learner permit from another state does not let you drive in Utah.

What to bring to the DLD

Start the online application on the DLD website and book a learner permit appointment. Walk-ins are served after people with appointments. For a regular permit, plan to bring:

• One proof of identity and lawful status, such as a valid U.S. passport or a state-certified birth certificate (hospital or small laminated certificates are not accepted).
• Proof of your full Social Security number, such as your signed Social Security card or a W-2.
• Two documents showing your name and Utah address, dated within the last 90 days, such as a utility bill, bank statement or school transcript.
• Legal proof of any name change, such as a court order.
• The fee, payable by cash, check, money order or credit card.

Eye test and knowledge test on the day

At the office you answer health questions, take an eye test and sit the written knowledge test, which needs 80 percent to pass. If you cannot pass the eye test, you will be asked to take a vision form (called a CVE) to an eye doctor and bring it back before your application is accepted.

If a health condition could affect your driving, the DLD may send a medical form for your health care provider to complete.

Driving on your permit

Carry the permit whenever you drive. Under 18, the person beside you must be a licensed parent, stepparent, foster parent or legal guardian, an approved driving instructor, or the licensed adult who signed for you. Another licensed adult aged 21 or older can supervise only if your parent or guardian is not a licensed driver and has given that adult a written note or proof. Other passengers may ride along. A 2026 law (SB 22) confirmed that stepparents and foster parents count as parents. If your permit expires, or you renew it, you must retake the knowledge test.

Common mistakes

• Bringing a photocopied or hospital birth certificate. Only originals or certified copies from a vital records office are accepted.
• Bringing address documents older than 90 days. Check the dates before you leave home.
• Letting a 19-year-old cousin supervise you. Under 18, supervisors must be a licensed parent or guardian, instructor or signer, or a 21-plus adult with the parent's note.
• Letting the 18-month permit run out. An expired permit means retaking the knowledge test.

Test yourself: Getting your Utah learner permit

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Utah Permit Test
• Utah Permit Practice Test
• How to Get a Driver License in Utah