Utah Department of Public Safety

Driver License Division - Minor Driving Restrictions

The Utah Legislature enacted legislation restricting minor driving effective July 1, 1999. (revised May 1, 2006)

Operation of vehicle by persons under 17 during night hours prohibited -- Exceptions.

In addition to the provisions of Title 53, Chapter 3, Uniform Driver License Act, a person younger than 17 years of age, whether resident or nonresident of this state, may not operate a motor vehicle upon any highway of this state between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. except for:

  • When accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age who is occupying a seat next to the driver;
  • Driving is in connection with the driver's employment, including the trip to and from the driver's residence and the driver's employment;
  • The driver drives directly to the driver's residence from a school-sponsored activity by a school or school district, and the provided transportation commenced from and returns to the school property where the driver is enrolled;
  • The driver is on assignment of a farmer or rancher and the driver is engaged in an agricultural operation; or
  • In an emergency

 Operation of vehicle by persons under 16 and six months -- Passenger limitations.

In addition to the provisions of Title 53, Chapter 3, Uniform Driver License Act, a person, whether resident or nonresident of this state, may not operate a motor vehicle upon any highway of this state with any passenger who is not an immediate family member of the driver until the earlier of:

  • Six months from the date the person's driver license was issued; or
  • The driver reaches 18 years of age.

Exceptions to this rule are:

  • If accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age;
  • On assignment of a farmer or rancher and the driver is engaged in an agricultural operation;
  • In an emergency
[Last Update - Friday, 08-Mar-2013 16:25:36 MST]