Overview of Utah ID scanning laws
Utah has 7 laws which we consider relevant to ID verification, in addition to other laws which may related to age verification, identity verification, KYC, privacy, and biometrics. Utah is considered to be among the strictest states when it comes to digital age verification, having been the first state to pass laws related to age verification for pornography, social media, and app store downloads.
Can you scan IDs in Utah?
Yes. Utah does not have any laws which limit a business’s ability to scan an ID. Utah requires digital ID scanning for alcohol sales, and for entrance into venues in which alcohol is consumed or sold.
Can you save data from a scanned ID in Utah?
Yes. There are no current laws which limit or restrict saving data from a scanned ID in Utah.
Does Utah offer affirmative defense for ID scanning?
Yes, Utah has affirmative defense laws related to ID scanning.
What types of IDs does Utah issue?
Utah issues drivers licenses and state IDs, including REAL ID, as well as a mobile drivers license (mDL), available in the Get Mobile app.
Individual Utah ID verification laws
Age verification for alcohol sales
ID scanning is required for anyone who appears 35 years old or younger for access to bars and alcohol purchases.
Age verification for tobacco sales
Utah requires that businesses check ID but does not require electronic scanning or verification for tobacco sales.
Age verification for social media
Utah law requires social media companies to verify the age of residents. Users under 18 must obtain parental consent before creating an account.
Age verification for adult websites
Websites publishing or distributing material deemed “harmful to minors” must verify that users are at least 18 years old.
Record keeping for scrap metal
Dealers may not purchase metal without obtaining the seller’s phone number, address, and a copy of their ID.
Affirmative defense for tattoo artists and piercers
Tattoo artists and piercers will be covered by affirmative defense if they tattoo or pierce a minor and have a photocopy of the minor’s ID purporting to be 18 or older.
Age verification for mobile apps
Utah requires that app stores such as Apple and Google verify the “age category” of their users. Effective 5/7/2025.
Data privacy laws in Utah
Utah enacted the Utah Consumer Privacy Act (UCPA) in 2022. This grants consumers the right to access, edit, delete, and opt-out of the collection and use of personal data for targeted advertising or for sale.
