Utah Road Signs & Driver Knowledge Test Exam Guide
At a glance
- Questions
- 50
- Passing score
- 80%
- Exam fee
- $0
- Governing body
- Utah Driver License Division
The Utah Written Knowledge Test is the state's official exam for new drivers, administered by the Utah Driver License Division (DLD) within the Department of Public Safety. First-time applicants must pass this test — which draws heavily on traffic signs and rules of the road — before they can receive a learner permit and start working toward a full license.
Overview
The knowledge test draws from the Utah Driver Handbook, covering traffic signs, right-of-way rules, and the safe-driving practices needed to hold a Utah license.
- Traffic signs make up Section I of the Driver Handbook and are tested as part of the single written knowledge test, not as a standalone signs-only exam.
- All first-time driver license applicants must also pass a separate Traffic Safety exam, which requires a score of 100%, before a first-time Class D license can be issued.
Cost and registration
A learner permit costs $19.00, and a regular Class D driver license (5-year) costs $39.00. Retaking the written knowledge test also requires an additional retest fee. Check the Utah DLD's official fee schedule for the exact retest amount and any other fees that may apply to your situation.
Exam format
The written knowledge test has 50 questions and isn't timed, though it generally takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete. You need a score of 80% or better to pass, and test scores along with learner permits stay valid for 18 months.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the Utah written knowledge test?
The written knowledge test for first-time applicants has 50 questions.
What is the passing score on the Utah knowledge test?
You must score 80% or higher to pass the written knowledge test.
Is the Utah written knowledge test timed?
The test itself isn't timed, but it generally takes 30 to 45 minutes to finish.
How much does it cost to retake the written knowledge test?
Retaking the written knowledge test requires paying an additional retest fee at the Driver License Division, so it's worth studying thoroughly and passing on your first attempt.
What is the minimum age to get a Utah learner permit?
You must be at least 15 years old to apply for a learner permit.
Is there another exam I need to pass besides the written knowledge test?
Yes. All first-time driver license applicants must also pass a separate Traffic Safety exam, and it requires a score of 100% before a first-time Class D license can be issued.
Sources
- 1.Utah Driver Handbook (DLD official manual PDF) — Utah Driver License Division (DLD), Utah Department of Public Safety (accessed Aug 9, 2026)
- 2.Learner Permit | Utah Driver License Division — Utah Driver License Division (DLD), Utah Department of Public Safety (accessed Aug 9, 2026)
- 3.Written Knowledge Test | Utah Driver License Division — Utah Driver License Division (DLD), Utah Department of Public Safety (accessed Aug 9, 2026)
Official sources
Every exam fact on this page traces to a primary document published by the body that administers the exam.
- Learner Permit | Utah Driver License DivisionUtah Driver License Division (DLD), Utah Department of Public Safetydld.utah.gov
- Utah Driver Handbook (DLD official manual PDF)Utah Driver License Division (DLD), Utah Department of Public Safetydld.utah.gov
- Fees | Utah Driver License DivisionUtah Driver License Division (DLD), Utah Department of Public Safetydld.utah.gov
- Written Knowledge Test | Utah Driver License DivisionUtah Driver License Division (DLD), Utah Department of Public Safetydld.utah.gov
- Utah Driver Handbook (DLD official manual PDF) - Section IUtah Driver License Division (DLD), Utah Department of Public Safetydld.utah.gov
Last verified against the official exam content outline: