Utah driving guide

The diverse terrain of Utah makes it a state like no other. So, before you get behind the wheel, it's a good idea to get a low down on the Beehive State's driving rules and regulations.

Our handy guide will break down the state’s speed limits, toll roads in Utah, road conditions and more to give you all the essential information you’ll need for a smooth drive. Read on to find out more.

Jump to a section:

• Quick rules of the road
• Speed limits
• Toll roads
• Driving ages
• Essential equipment
• Speed violations
• Driving with children
• Gas prices
• Electric car charging
• Driving between Utah and other states
• Driving conditions 

Quick rules of the road

●        You should always wear seat belts while driving.

●        Drivers should yield to pedestrians at intersections and crossroads.

●        Flashing amber lights on buses indicate that they're slowing down to load or unload. 

●        You can turn right at a red light, but only after coming to a complete stop and if it is safe to do so.

●        Treat non-working traffic lights the same as a four-way stop.

Speed limits in Utah

Get to know the speed limits in Utah and how they vary from residential areas to rural highways.

Toll roads in Utah

Utah has just one toll road – The Adams Avenue Parkway – that runs across the state, connecting US 89 to the I-84.

The Adams Avenue Parkway

This is a 1.6-mile-long road found almost entirely in Washington Terrace. It’s a major road and is one of the busiest in Utah. 

From: I-84 in Washington Terrace

To: US 89 in Washington Terrace

Cost for car: $2.00

Cost for truck: $3.00 for three axles, $0.50 extra for every axle

How to pay: You can either pay in cash or via ExpressCard – a prepaid account that gives you a discount every time you add $10. 

Driving ages and license requirements in Utah

●        The minimum driving age in Utah is 16.

●        The minimum age to rent a car in Utah with Hertz is 20.

If you’re looking to rent a car with Hertz and you’re under 25, you can learn more about the vehicles available and any additional requirements in our guide for renters under 25.

Essential equipment to carry in your car in Utah

In your vehicle, you should have:

●        Jumper cables

●        A flashlight

●        Flares and matches or reflective emergency triangles

●        A multi-tool

●        Duct tape and plastic zip ties

●        Spare tires

●        A first aid kit

●        An escape tool like a knife

●        A tire pressure gauge

●        A wheel wrench

●        Washer fluid

●        An ice scraper and snow brush

For a list of items that you can’t carry in your Hertz car, please check your rental agreement.

Utah speed violations, infractions and penalties

If you break the speed limits in Utah, you could face traffic offense charges and fines, as well as points on your license.

●      1-10mph over the limit: $120

●      11-15mph over the limit: $150

●      16-20mph over the limit: $200

●      21-25mph over the limit: $270

●      26-30mph over the limit: $370

●      31mph or more over the limit: Minimum fine of $470.

Driving with children in Utah

The car seat requirements in Utah require all children below the age of 16 to be properly secured. The type of restraint needed depends on the age, weight and height of the child in question.

However, the Utah law does not categorize the type of child seat to be used by age. Instead, it has issued recommended guidelines for child safety.

• Children over 57 inches tall can use normal seat belts, even if they are younger than eight years old.
• Utah recommends securing children in a rear-facing car seat until they are two years of age and over 30 pounds.

Violating child safety laws is an infraction that can lead to a fine of up to $45.

Gas prices in Utah

The average gas price in Utah is $4.19 per gallon.

Based on manufacturers’ average fuel figures:

●        For a small car like a Chevrolet Spark, that’s about $0.11 per mile.

●        A larger family car like a Nissan Pathfinder works out at $0.16 per mile.

Gas price figure last updated October 25, 2022.

Electric car charging in Utah

With hundreds of charging stations spread all over Utah, you can charge your car’s battery in 30 minutes at one of 243 'fast charge' stations.  Some stations even offer free EV charging, or you can use the ChargePoint app to top up.

Utah's network of public charging stations is also expanding as the state works to make it easier to "top up your tank" on the road.

Driving between Utah and other states

When you rent a car in Utah with Hertz, you have the freedom to explore. Go as far as your imagination takes you, beyond the skinny canyons and red rocks and into the neighboring states of Wyoming, Colorado, Arizona or Nevada

With Hertz, you don’t have to worry about driving the car back – just drop it off at one of our locations in your final destination.

Driving conditions in Utah

Utah offers one of the most unforgettable driving experiences in the US with its diverse landscape and scenic wonders. However, its harsh winters can bring snowy and icy driving conditions.

At this time of year, you should make sure that your vehicle is properly equipped to handle the weather and road conditions. Winter tires are essential, and you should add chains, if neededes