Utah Driver Handbook 2024-2025 – Key Facts

Question-and-answer flashcards covering major concepts, laws, definitions, licensing rules, safety practices, and equipment requirements from the Utah Driver Handbook 2024-2025.

When did Utah’s Bureau of Driver License Services begin issuing licenses and what was the original cost?

The first Utah driver license was issued on December 5, 1933 and cost 25¢.

What is the minimum age to obtain a regular Class D driver license in Utah?

16 years old (after completing all required training).

How long must a learner permit be held by a 16- or 17-year-old before applying for a first driver license?

6 months.

List the three tests originally required when examinations began in 1935.

Eye test, written knowledge test, and (occasional) driving skills test.

What 2024 Utah law removed the requirement for a front license plate and two decals, and when is it effective?

SB 45 License Plate Revisions; effective January 1, 2025.

Under HB 30 (2024) what can happen to a driver convicted of an offense enhanced for road rage?

Their vehicle may be seized/impounded, an administrative fee assessed, and their driver license suspended or revoked.

How far in advance may you renew a Utah driver license?

Up to 6 months before its expiration date.

What vision standard is required to pass the Utah eye test without restrictions?

At least 20/40 vision and 90° peripheral field in one eye.

What are Utah’s top two leading causes of all crashes on state highways (2023)?

1) Failed to Keep in Proper Lane (32%); 2) Ran Off the Road (12%).

Which document types prove identity AND lawful status for a regular Utah driver license?

Valid U.S. passport/passport card, certified birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Permanent Resident Card, Certificate of Naturalization/Citizenship.

How many attempts are allowed under one written-test fee and within what time frame?

Three (3) attempts within 12 months (retake fee required for more).

Describe Utah’s zipper merge rule in construction zones.

Drivers should use both lanes to the merge point and then alternate, yielding one-for-one into the single lane.

When is a driver required to dim high-beam headlights for oncoming traffic?

Within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle.

Define the term “Not-a-Drop” as it applies to drivers under 21.

Driving with any measurable alcohol; results in six-month denial for first offense.

What following distance rule is recommended in normal conditions?

At least a two-second gap behind the vehicle ahead.

Explain Utah’s law on handheld wireless communication devices for drivers over 18.

Handheld texting/dialing/browsing is prohibited; voice-activated hands-free calls are allowed.

Who must wear a DOT-approved helmet when riding a motorcycle in Utah?

Any rider or passenger younger than 21 years old.

What is the default speed limit in a Utah business or residential area when not posted?

25 mph.

How far must you stop from the nearest rail at a railroad crossing when required to stop?

More than 15 feet but not more than 50 feet.

What minimum space must a Utah motorist give when passing a bicyclist?

At least three (3) feet.

What items are required on a street-legal ATV or UTV operated on Utah roads?

Headlights, tail/brake lights, turn signals, windshield or eye protection, mirrors, horn, licensed driver, insurance, registration, and tires meeting tread limits.

How long is an alcohol-restricted-driver status imposed after a first DUI suspension?

Two (2) years from the effective date of suspension/revocation.

Which type of license is issued to non-U.S.-citizens with verified lawful status?

Limited-Term Driver License (or Limited-Term CDL/ID).

What is required to obtain a mobile driver license (mDL) in Utah?

Possession of a valid physical Utah driver license/ID, download of GET Mobile ID app, and after 6-month free period paying a yearly subscription.

Name three common driver errors that automatically fail the Utah driving skills test.

Receiving a moving-violation citation, failing to yield causing evasive action, or examiner taking control of the vehicle.

At what BAC is a regular driver in Utah legally impaired?

0.05 g/dL or any level causing unsafe driving.

What equipment must a vehicle have to qualify for operation after dark?

Two headlights, tail/stop lights, license-plate light, mirrors, functional wipers, and working horn.

How soon must a Utah license holder notify the DLD of an address change?

Within 10 days.

Define “Flex Lane” signals: what does a green arrow vs. red X mean?

Green arrow: lane open for travel; red X: do NOT use the lane.

What are the Utah point-thresholds that trigger a hearing for drivers under and over 21?

70 points (under 21) or 200 points (age 21+) within three years.

List two lawful exceptions allowing a 16-year-old to drive between midnight and 5 a.m.

With licensed driver 21+; to/from work; to/from a school-sponsored activity; on agricultural assignment; or for emergencies.

How long is a renewal-by-mail or online extension notice sent before a birthday for good drivers?

Approximately 90 days before the birthday.

What does Utah’s ‘Move Over’ law require when approaching a stationary vehicle with flashing lights?

Reduce speed and, if safe, change lanes away from the stopped vehicle; HOV-lane drivers must exit the HOV lane if practical.

What is the penalty for refusing a chemical test (first offense) in Utah?

Driver license revoked for 18 months (24 months if under 21).

When parallel parking, how far may wheels be from the curb?

No more than 12 inches.

How many hours of driving must a 15- to 18-year-old complete with a parent/guardian?

40 hours (including 10 hours after sunset).

Describe lane filtering for Utah motorcyclists.

At stoplights, a motorcyclist may pass stopped vehicles in the same lane at ≤ 15 mph on roads with 45 mph limit and two adjacent lanes, except on-ramps.

What immediate steps should you take if your brakes fail while driving?

Downshift, pump brakes, use parking brake gradually, steer to a safe area.

What emergency warning devices must a vehicle ≥ 80 inches wide carry?

Three flares/reflectors or red electric lights and two red flags.

Where is the safest position for children aged 12 or younger in a vehicle?

Properly restrained in the back seat.

After moving to Utah, how long may a visitor legally drive with an out-of-state license?

Up to six (6) months.

What documents prove Utah residency for driver licensing? Give two examples.

Bank statement, utility bill, mortgage/rental contract, property-tax notice, school transcript, vehicle title, court document, major credit-card bill (dated within 90 days).

What are the late-night driving restrictions for a 17-year-old licensed driver?

May not drive between midnight and 5 a.m. for 6 months unless with a licensed adult 21+, to/from work, school activity, on farm assignment, or in an emergency.

How much can fines be increased for speeding in a school zone under HB 345 (2024)?

Fines are increased (specific amount set by statute) for school-zone speeding and failure to obey school bus signals.

What is Utah’s requirement for displaying insurance proof to law enforcement?

Must present proof of insurance (paper or electronic) upon request; driving without insurance results in fines and possible SR-22 requirement.

When must you report a crash to law enforcement in Utah?

Immediately if there is injury, death, or property damage of $2,500 or more.

Explain the Utah driver license good-driver renewal program.

Drivers with no more than six reportable violations in past eight years receive an online extension notice and may renew electronically without visiting an office.

What state agency handles vehicle registration in Utah?

Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) under the Utah State Tax Commission, not the Driver License Division.

Name two voluntary $2 contributions you can make during licensure or registration.

Vision screening (Friends for Sight) and Organ Donation Contribution Fund (Yes Utah).

What should you do if your vehicle enters water and begins to sink?

Unbuckle, open or break a window immediately, exit onto vehicle roof or swim to safety; if submerged, wait for pressure to equalize then escape.

How many feet before a turn must you signal in Utah?

At least two (2) seconds (approximately 100 feet at city speeds).

What is the legal maximum width for most vehicles in Utah without a special permit?

8 ½ feet (102 inches).

Who is required to file SR-22 ‘future proof’ insurance and for how long?

Drivers convicted of driving without insurance or with unsatisfied judgments; must maintain SR-22 for three (3) years.