How to Get Your Utah Learner's Permit (DLD Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Learner Permit through the Utah Driver License Division, Department of Public Safety (DLD) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Learner Permit in Utah, you must be at least 15 and apply in person at the Utah Driver License Division, Department of Public Safety (DLD). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Utah's DLD knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving — including canyon and winter driving — from the Utah Driver Handbook. Note that Utah's adult BAC limit is 0.05%, the lowest in the nation.
Documents to bring to the DLD
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity and lawful presence, such as an original or certified U.S. birth certificate with a raised seal, a valid U.S. passport, or an unexpired permanent resident card (photocopies, faxes, laminated birth certificates, and hospital certificates are not accepted)
- Proof of Social Security number, such as a Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a pay stub showing your full name and SSN
- First proof of Utah residence address, such as a utility bill, bank statement, mortgage or rental agreement, or current vehicle registration showing your name and Utah address
- Second, separate proof of your Utah residence address from a different acceptable source
- Parent or legal guardian in person to sign for financial responsibility if the applicant is under 18 years old
- Proof of enrollment in or completion of an approved driver education course, required for applicants ages 15 through 18
The knowledge test
In Utah, the knowledge test is taken in person. A proctored, in-person, closed-book written knowledge test of 50 questions taken at a Driver License Division office for applicants who have never been licensed.
Rehearse with our free Utah practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Utah Practice Test →Fees
The DLD charges $19.00 (non-refundable application fee) for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DLD before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Utah uses a graduated driver licensing system: teens may apply for a learner permit at age 15, must hold the permit for at least six months, and must log 40 hours of supervised practice driving (including 10 after dark) with a licensed adult before taking the road test for a license.
Utah permit FAQ
How many questions is the Utah permit test?
The DLD knowledge test has about 50 questions, and you need 40 of 50 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Utah permit test online?
In Utah, the knowledge test is taken in person. A proctored, in-person, closed-book written knowledge test of 50 questions taken at a Driver License Division office for applicants who have never been licensed.
What do I need to bring to the DLD?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Utah residency, plus anything required for a Learner Permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Utah permit?
You can apply for a Learner Permit at 15 in Utah, provided you meet the DLD's other requirements.
How much does a Utah permit cost?
The DLD charges $19.00 (non-refundable application fee) for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DLD.
What happens if I fail the Utah permit test?
You may attempt the written knowledge test twice in one day. If you fail three times, a second application fee is required before you can test again, and you must schedule a new retake appointment.
Official sources: dld.utah.gov · dld.utah.gov · dld.utah.gov