Connecticut renewal works by mail, online, or in person — choose based on how much time you have
Connecticut lets you renew your driver's license through three routes: by mail, online through the DMV website, or in person at a DMV office. Mail renewal takes the longest (allow four to six weeks), online is fastest (you get your new license in about two weeks), and in person is middle ground (usually same-day or within a few days). Your choice depends on when your current license expires and whether you need to update your photo or address.
Before you pick a method, check your license expiration date. Connecticut allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires, so you have a window to plan. If your license has already expired, you can still renew through any method, but you cannot legally drive until the new one arrives.
Key Takeaways
- Connecticut offers online renewal through the DMV website for most drivers, which is the fastest option and takes about two weeks.
- Mail renewal requires you to send your current license and a completed form to the DMV, and takes four to six weeks.
- In-person renewal at a DMV office is necessary if you need a new photo, have a name change, or want to update your address on the same day.
- You must renew in person if your license was suspended, revoked, or if you have certain medical conditions that require DMV review.
- Connecticut licenses are valid for six years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
Online renewal: the fastest route for most drivers
Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website is available if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have not had a major address change, and your vision and medical status have not changed. You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The fee is $72 for a six-year renewal.
Go to the Connecticut DMV website, select "Renew Driver License Online," and follow the prompts. You will confirm your personal information, pay the fee, and receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within about two weeks. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.
Online renewal does not include a new photo — your current photo stays on file. If you want a new photo or need to change your address, you must renew in person instead. This method works well if your information is current and you are not in a rush to have the license in hand when ready.
Mail renewal: the slowest option, but no trip required
To renew by mail, read and print the Driver License Renewal process (Form DL-43) from the Connecticut DMV website. Fill it out completely, including your name, address, date of birth, and license number. Sign and date the form.
Mail your completed form along with your current driver's license and a check or money order for $72 to the Connecticut DMV address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with your address if you want your old license back (the DMV will not return it otherwise). Allow four to six weeks for processing and delivery.
Mail renewal is a good choice if you have no time to visit an office and your information has not changed. However, you cannot drive legally once your current license expires, so do not wait until the last minute to mail your renewal. Start the process at least six weeks before your expiration date to may support your new license arrives in time.
In-person renewal: when you need a new photo or have address changes
Visit any Connecticut DMV office with your current driver's license, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Bring payment of $72 in cash, check, or card.
The DMV will take a new photo, verify your information, and issue your new license on the spot or within a few days. In-person renewal is required if you have changed your name, moved to a new address and want it updated when ready, or want a new photo. It is also the only option if your license was suspended or revoked, or if you have medical conditions that require DMV review.
Wait times at DMV offices vary by location and time of day. Call ahead or check the Connecticut DMV website for current wait times at your nearest office. Early morning visits typically have shorter lines. Bringing all required documents the first time prevents you from having to make a second trip.
When you must renew in person, not by mail or online
You cannot use mail or online renewal if your license was suspended or revoked for any reason, including unpaid traffic tickets, DUI convictions, or medical disqualifications. You also cannot renew by mail or online if you have a name change that needs to be reflected on your license, or if you have a medical condition that the DMV must review before issuing a new license.
If you are unsure whether you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal, call the Connecticut DMV at 860-263-5700 before you attempt to renew. They can tell you in a few minutes whether your record allows remote renewal or requires an in-person visit. This phone call takes less time than making a wasted trip to an office.
What to do if your license has already expired
If your Connecticut license has expired, you can still renew it through any of the three methods — mail, online, or in person. However, you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives. If you need to drive before renewal is complete, you can request a temporary permit at a DMV office, though this is not always granted and depends on your circumstances.
Do not delay if your license is expired. Driving on an expired license can result in a ticket, even if you have a renewal in progress. If you are stopped by police, show them your renewal confirmation number as proof that you have applied. The confirmation number does not prevent a ticket, but it documents that you took action.
Fees and what to bring for each method
| Renewal Method | Fee | Processing Time | What to Bring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | $72 | About 2 weeks | Current license number, Social Security number, payment method |
| $72 | 4–6 weeks | Completed Form DL-43, current license, check or money order | |
| In Person | $72 | Same day or within a few days | Current license, proof of Social Security, proof of address, payment |
All three methods cost the same. The difference is how long you wait and whether you get a new photo. Connecticut does not charge extra for expedited processing, so there is no way to speed up mail renewal beyond the standard four to six weeks.
Payment methods vary by renewal type: online renewal accepts debit or credit card, mail renewal requires check or money order, and in-person renewal accepts cash, check, or card. Plan your payment method when you choose your renewal route.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Connecticut license if I moved out of state?
You can renew your Connecticut license by mail or online if you have moved out of state, as long as your license is not suspended or revoked. However, if you now live in another state permanently, you should consider getting a driver's license from your new state instead, since most states require you to transfer your license within 30 to 60 days of moving. Contact your new state's DMV for their requirements.
What happens if I renew online but my address is wrong?
If you renew online and realize your address is incorrect, contact the Connecticut DMV when ready at 860-263-5700 before your new license is mailed. They may be able to correct it. If the license arrives with the wrong address, you will need to visit a DMV office in person to get it corrected, which requires a new photo and takes a few days.
Do I need a new photo every time I renew?
No. Online and mail renewal keep your current photo on file. You only get a new photo if you renew in person. If you want a new photo but do not need to change your address or name, you can still choose in-person renewal — just bring the same documents you would for any in-person visit.
How long can I drive on an expired license while waiting for my renewal?
You cannot legally drive on an expired license, even if you have applied for renewal. Once your current license expires, you must stop driving until your new license arrives. If you are stopped by police, show them your renewal confirmation number, but this does not prevent a ticket.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding warrant or unpaid fines?
Outstanding warrants or unpaid fines may result in your license being suspended, which prevents online and mail renewal. You must visit a DMV office in person, and the DMV will tell you whether your record allows renewal. Resolve any legal issues or fines before attempting to renew, or your process will be denied.