As Utah’s population ages, many senior drivers want to maintain their independence and mobility. Understanding the state’s driver’s license renewal process is essential for seniors and their families. Here’s a concise guide to the rules, requirements, and helpful tips for renewing a driver’s license in Utah if you’re a senior.
Renewal Period and Eligibility
- License Validity: All Utah driver’s licenses are valid for eight years, regardless of age.
- Renewal Window: You can renew your license as early as six months before its expiration date.
- Renewal Methods: Seniors can renew their licenses in person or online. Online renewal is available every other renewal, provided eligibility requirements are met.
Special Requirements for Seniors
Vision Test:
If you are 65 or older, you must pass a vision screening at every renewal. This means demonstrating at least 20/40 corrected vision and a peripheral field of 90 degrees in at least one eye. If you do not meet these standards, you’ll need a Certificate of Visual Examination from your eye doctor.
Medical Questionnaire:
Seniors, like all applicants, must complete a medical questionnaire as part of the renewal process.
No Automatic Written or Road Test:
Seniors are not required to take a written or road test unless:
- Their license has been expired for more than six months.
- They have more than six citations in eight years.
- Their license has been suspended or revoked.
Renewal Process
In-Person Renewal:
- Schedule an appointment (walk-ins not accepted).
- Complete a renewal application (online or in-office).
- Take a new photo.
- Pass a vision screening.
- Complete the medical questionnaire.
- Surrender your old license.
- Pay the renewal fee ($25).
- Receive a temporary ID; the permanent license will be mailed to you.
Online Renewal:
- Available every other renewal, if you have previously verified your identity with the Driver License Division.
- Use the Utah Driver License Online Renewal service and provide the required personal information and PIN included in your renewal letter.
Restrictions and Conditions
- Utah may place driving restrictions on your license based on your vision or medical condition. Any such restriction will be indicated on your license.
- If you have a restriction, you must comply with its terms (e.g., corrective lenses required, no night driving).
Key Takeaways
- Utah seniors renew their license every eight years.
- A vision test is required at every renewal for those 65 and older.
- Online renewal is available every other cycle, if eligible.
- No written or road test is required unless there are specific issues with your driving record or license status.
- Appointments are required for in-person renewals.
Staying up to date with these requirements ensures you can continue driving legally and safely in Utah as a senior driver.
Sources:
- https://dld.utah.gov/adult-renewal/
- https://lifelanes.progressive.com/senior-driving-laws-by-state/
- https://www.deseret.com/2019/4/27/20671879/what-changes-with-the-eight-year-life-span-for-utah-driver-s-licenses/
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html