License Renewal for Seniors in Utah: What You Need to Know
In Utah, senior drivers face specific requirements when renewing their driver’s licenses. Understanding these rules is crucial for maintaining driving privileges and ensuring road safety.
Renewal Frequency and Eligibility
All Utah drivers, including seniors, must renew their licenses every eight years. The renewal process can begin up to six months before the expiration date. Seniors can renew their licenses online if they verified their identity with the Driver’s License Division (DLD) after January 1, 2010.
Vision Test Requirements
For drivers aged 65 and older, a vision test is mandatory at every renewal. This test can be conducted for free by DLD personnel. However, if more comprehensive testing is needed, drivers must have an exam performed by an external healthcare professional.
This exam must be completed within six months of the renewal request, and the healthcare provider must fill out a Certificate of Visual Examination.
Online Renewal Process
Eligible seniors can renew their licenses online. To do so, they need:
- Their driver’s license number
- A renewal notice with a PIN number
- Their Social Security Number
- A printer
- A valid credit card for the renewal fee ($17 for those 65 and older)
The online renewal process involves logging into the system, verifying information, making the payment, and printing a temporary license. The permanent license will be mailed within 6-8 weeks.
In-Person Renewal
Some seniors may need to renew their license in person, especially if they:
- Don’t have an online renewal option on their notice
- Need to update their name
- Are required to complete a written exam
- Need to take a vision exam in person
- Have a suspended, revoked, or cancelled license
- Need to take a new photo
For in-person renewals, seniors should bring:
- A completed Utah Driver’s License Application
- Their current Utah driver’s license
- The driver’s license renewal notice
- Two proofs of Utah residency (if address has changed)
- Name change documents (if applicable)
- Payment for the renewal fee ($17 for those 65 and older)
Additional Considerations
The DLD may impose restrictions or conditions on a senior’s driver’s license based on their health or driving ability. Common restrictions include requiring glasses or corrective contact lenses.
Utah also requires all drivers to complete a health questionnaire to verify their physical and emotional fitness to drive.
Those with significant health problems may need to be examined by a healthcare professional who must complete a comprehensive Functional Ability Evaluation Medical Report.
Reporting Unsafe Drivers
The Utah DLD accepts information from family members and other concerned citizens about potentially unsafe drivers. To report concerns, one must complete an Unsafe Driver Report form, have it notarized, and submit it to the DLD.
By understanding and following these requirements, senior drivers in Utah can ensure a smooth license renewal process while maintaining their independence and safety on the road.
Sources:
- https://dld.utah.gov/adult-renewal/
- https://dmvconnect.com/utah-license-renewal/
- https://pop-bookstore.s3.amazonaws.com/opg-content/checklist/drivers/DEFAULT/renew-drivers-license/utah.pdf
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/utah-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html