Utah Graduated Driver License (GDL) Laws

Last verified: 2026-03

Utah uses a graduated driver license (GDL) system to help new drivers build skills in stages. Here is a breakdown of each stage, the requirements, and the restrictions you need to know.

Stage 1

Learner's Permit

15

Minimum age

Stage 2

Intermediate License

16

Minimum age

Stage 3

Full License

17

Minimum age

Stage 1: Learner's Permit

Minimum age
15
Holding period
6 months
Supervised driving hours
40 hours
Nighttime driving hours
10 hours
Supervisor minimum age
21 years old

Stage 2: Intermediate (Provisional) License

Minimum age
16
Curfew hours
12:00 AM to 5:00 AM
Passenger exceptions
No non-family passengers; family members exempt
Cell phone use banned
Yes

Stage 3: Full Unrestricted License

Minimum age for full license

17

At this age, all GDL restrictions are removed and you can drive without limits on passengers, curfew, or supervision.

Penalties for GDL Violations

Violations can result in fines and license suspension

Utah-Specific Information

Utah is one of the stricter states for passenger restrictions with no non-family passengers allowed throughout the intermediate stage. Exceptions to curfew for work, school, and emergencies. Cell phone ban applies to novice drivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

A graduated driver license (GDL) is a system that lets new drivers in Utah gain experience in stages. You start with a learner's permit, move to an intermediate license, and then earn a full unrestricted license. Each stage has its own rules and restrictions.

You can get your learner's permit in Utah at age 15. You must hold your permit for at least 6 months before moving to the intermediate license stage.

During the intermediate license stage, Utah restricts driving between 12:00 AM and 5:00 AM. This curfew is in place until you get your full unrestricted license at age 17.

You can get your full unrestricted driver's license in Utah at age 17. At that point, all GDL restrictions on curfew, passengers, and supervision are removed.

Prefer to learn online?

Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.

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This information is based on nonprofit-research sources. Requirements can change. Visit your state's official DMV website for the most current information.