Book your Real ID appointment online or by phone with the Connecticut DMV

Connecticut offers two ways to schedule a Real ID appointment: through the DMV's online appointment system at ct.gov/dmv or by calling 1-860-263-5700. The online system is faster — you can pick your preferred location and time slot in minutes — but the phone line works if you need help or prefer to speak with someone.

You do not need to know your appointment confirmation number before you call; the DMV will assign one when you book. Write down your confirmation number and the date and time of your appointment, because you will need both when you arrive at the office.

Real ID appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, especially at popular locations and times. If you cannot find an open slot, check back the next day — cancellations open up regularly, and the system updates throughout the day.

Key Takeaways

  • The Connecticut DMV online appointment system at ct.gov/dmv lets you see all available times and locations before you book.
  • You can also call 1-860-263-5700 to schedule by phone, and the DMV will give you a confirmation number on the spot.
  • Bring your confirmation number and a photo ID to your appointment, even though you are there to get a Real ID.
  • Real ID appointments book up quickly, so if no slots show available, check again the next day for cancellations.
  • The entire Real ID process — appointment, document review, and photo — usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.

What documents to bring to your Real ID appointment

Connecticut requires specific documents to prove your identity, Social Security number, and Connecticut residency. Bring originals, not copies — the DMV will not accept photocopies for Real ID.

For proof of identity, bring a current passport, passport card, or military ID. For Social Security, bring your Social Security card or a W-2 form. For Connecticut residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days — your name and current address must both appear on the document.

If your name has changed since your last license, bring the document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you were born outside the United States, bring your birth certificate or naturalization papers.

Online appointment booking step by step

Go to ct.gov/dmv and look for the appointment scheduling link on the homepage. Click it and select "Real ID" as the transaction type. The system will ask you to enter your zip code or choose a DMV office location from a list.

Once you pick a location, the calendar will show available dates in the next several weeks. Click a date to see time slots for that day. Most offices offer morning and afternoon appointments. Select the time that works for you and review your choices on the confirmation screen.

The system will ask for your name, phone number, and email address. Enter these carefully — the DMV will use your phone number to send appointment reminders. After you submit, the system will display your confirmation number on screen. Take a screenshot or write it down before you close the page.

Phone appointment booking

Call 1-860-263-5700 during DMV business hours. Wait times vary depending on the time of day; calling early in the morning or late in the afternoon usually means shorter waits than midday.

Tell the representative you want to schedule a Real ID appointment. They will ask which DMV office location you prefer and what dates and times work for you. They will then check availability and offer you the next open slot that matches your preferences. If that time does not work, ask what other options are available.

The representative will give you a confirmation number over the phone. Ask them to repeat it and write it down when ready. They may also offer to send a confirmation email or text message — accept this if offered, as it gives you a backup record.

What to expect on appointment day

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring your confirmation number, photo ID, and all documents listed above. The DMV office will be busy, but Real ID appointments are scheduled to move through faster than walk-in service.

When you arrive, check in at the front desk with your confirmation number. A staff member will call you when it is your turn. They will review your documents, take your photo, and ask you to sign the process. The whole process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.

Your Real ID will be mailed to the address on your process within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your ID sooner, ask the DMV staff whether you can pick it up in person instead — some locations offer this option.

If your appointment time does not work anymore

You can reschedule through the same online system or by calling 1-860-263-5700. Have your confirmation number ready. The DMV will cancel your old appointment and book you into a new time slot.

If you need to cancel without rescheduling, you can do that online as well. Canceling frees up your time slot for other people and may open up earlier appointments for you if you book again later.

Real ID vs. standard license: which appointment do you need?

A Real ID is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025. It has a gold star in the upper right corner and costs the same as a standard license renewal.

A standard Connecticut driver's license works for driving and everyday identification but will not be accepted for air travel or federal building entry after the important date. If you only drive and do not fly, a standard license is sufficient.

If you are renewing your license anyway, Real ID is the better choice because it costs nothing extra and gives you more options. You can book a Real ID appointment even if your current license is not yet expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a Real ID appointment for someone else?

No. The person getting the Real ID must be present at the appointment. They will need to sign the process and have their photo taken. You can help them schedule the appointment, but they must attend.

What if I miss my appointment?

Call 1-860-263-5700 as soon as you realize you will not make it. The DMV may be able to reschedule you into another slot the same day or within a few days. If you do not call, you lose your appointment time and will need to book a new one, which may take weeks.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

Walk-ins are accepted at some DMV locations, but appointment holders are served first. If you want to avoid a long wait, booking an appointment is strongly recommended. Check ct.gov/dmv to see which offices accept walk-ins.

How far in advance should I book my Real ID appointment?

Book as soon as you know you need a Real ID. Appointments fill up 4 to 8 weeks ahead at popular locations. If you are flying or need federal building access soon, book when ready — waiting until the last minute may leave you without an available slot.

Can I change my appointment to a different DMV office?

Yes. Cancel your current appointment online or by phone, then book a new one at the office you prefer. This is faster than calling to reschedule, because you can see all available times at all locations at once on the online system.