Preparing for the Utah drivers license test—also known as the Utah DMV test—can be overwhelming. Whether you’re seeking your first permit, upgrading to a full license or commercial credential, this guide walks you through everything you must know to ace the Utah driving license test.
What Is the Utah Drivers License Test?
The Utah drivers license test refers to two separate exams:
- Written knowledge test – a multiple-choice exam covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
- Driving skills test – a behind-the-wheel evaluation of your actual driving ability.
You’ll begin with the written test at a Utah Driver License Division (DLD) office. If you pass (typically scoring 80% or higher), you’ll schedule the practical driving test either at the DLD or through a third-party tester
Who Must Take the Utah DMV Written Test?
You need to pass the written test if you:
- Are applying for your first Utah driver’s license (permit or full license)
- Are under 19 and seeking a learner’s permit
- Hold an out-of-state license arriving after expiration or suspension
- Wish to obtain a different license class (motorcycle, CDL)
- Need to reinstate your license after suspension
Even experienced drivers may be required to re-take the test depending on license status and renewals.
What’s Covered on the Utah DMV Written Test?
According to the Utah DLD, the test includes questions on:
- Traffic laws and penalties
- Road signs and pavement markings
- Safe driving and emergency procedures
- Sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists, and large vehicles
Test Format
- 50 multiple-choice questions
- Passing score: 80% (40/50 correct)
- Timed practice exams (30 minutes) available online (dld.utah.gov)
How to Prepare for the Utah DMV Written Knowledge Test
1. Study the Official Utah Driver Handbook
Download the digital version from the Utah DLD. This is your primary source; every question on the written test is based on this manual.
2. Take Online Practice Tests
Use a reputable Utah DMV practice test resource, such as our own Utah DMV practice course. The key benefits:
- Realistic 50-question simulations
- Immediate answer feedback and explanations
- Analytics to identify your weakest areas
Complement this with external sources such as:
3. Create Flashcards
Include:
- Traffic signs and meanings
- Speed limits
- Right-of-way rules
- DUI/BAC limits
- Parking restrictions
4. Use Visual and Video Aids
Watch tutorials from Utah DLD and YouTube to understand:
- Road sign meanings
- Intersection procedures
- Emergency maneuvers
- Driving in Utah’s varied conditions (e.g., snow, canyon roads)
5. Build a Consistent Study Routine
- 20–30 minutes a day
- Alternate between theory, practice, and flashcards
- Gradually increase practice test frequency closer to the exam
Sample Utah DMV Written Test Questions
Q1: When approaching a traffic signal displaying a flashing red light, you should:
A) Proceed with caution
B) Come to a complete stop, then go when it’s safe
C) Stop only if other cars are present
Answer: B
Q2: What is the minimum legal age for a driver’s license in Utah?
A) 15
B) 18
C) 16
Answer: C
Q3: What is the maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) permitted for drivers over 21 in Utah?
A) 0.04%
B) 0.08%
C) 0.10%
Answer: B
These sample questions mirror the official test’s difficulty and content type.
Taking the Utah Driving Skills Test
Once you pass the written test:
- Obtain or upgrade to a learner’s permit and fulfill training requirements
- Schedule the road skills test—available at DLD offices and DLD-approved third-party testers
Did You Know?
Third-party testers may offer more flexible scheduling and faster results .
Preparing for the Driving Skills Test
Grade Criteria (Utah DLD)
Evaluation includes:
- Proper posture and control
- Signaling and lane usage
- Smooth turning, starting, and stopping
- Hill and parallel parking
- Response to traffic signs, intersections, and safety maneuvers
Practice Tips
- Use your Utah DMV practice course simulator
- Repeat maneuvers: parallel parking, U-turns, lane changes, defensive driving
- Schedule sessions in varied traffic and weather conditions
- Drive under supervision and simulate exam conditions
Required Documents for Utah Tests
Bring the following:
- Birth certificate or unexpired passport
- Social Security number proof
- Two proof-of-utah residency (utility bills, lease)
- Additional documentation if name/address differs
- Parent/guardian consent for minors; driver education certificate for ages 15–18
Visit the Utah DLD required documents page to verify.
Retaking the Written Test
- You may attempt the test twice per day
- After three failures, you must retake the full application and pay a retest fee
- You can retake failed exams at the same DLD office
Utah Graduated Licensing Program (AGES 15–19)
Learner’s Permit (15–18 years)
- Must hold for 6 months
- Must complete classroom and home study or driver ed
- Supervised driving time:
- Ages 15–18: 6 hours total, 3 hours night
- Age 19+: no ed required, needs 40 hours (10 at night)
Road Test
- After learner’s phase and supervised hours
- Road test includes emergency maneuvers demonstrated earlier
Top Tips to Pass Both Utah DMV Tests
- Start studying well in advance (2–3 weeks recommended)
- Use daily practice tests in your final week
- Identify weak spots via analytics
- Practice real-world driving skills
- Rest well before test day
- Read questions thoroughly—don’t rush
- Bring all required documents in original form
- Arrive early to your appointment
Helpful External and Internal Resources
- Utah DLD official website – licensing, documents, practice test (dld.utah.gov, dld.utah.gov)
- NHTSA – national road safety and sign resources
- CDC – teen driving safety research
- Internal: our Utah DMV practice test course (Practise Now)
Final Checklist Before Test
Written Test Ready?
- [ ] Utah Driver Handbook studied
- [ ] 5 in-depth practice exams taken
- [ ] Flashcards and flash practice
- [ ] Videos used to reinforce knowledge
- [ ] Test scheduled and documents gathered
Driving Skills Test Ready?
- [ ] Supervised driving hours: >= 40 (>=10 nighttime)
- [ ] Repetition of required maneuvers
- [ ] Appointment scheduled (DLD or third-party)
- [ ] Car requirements: registration, safety seat belts, no passengers (except examiner)
