Where to renew your Connecticut license

Connecticut lets you renew your driver's license in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online depending on your situation. The Connecticut DMV operates branches across the state, and you can find the one nearest you on their website at ct.gov/dmv. Not every location handles every type of renewal, so check before you go.

Online renewal through the DMV website is the fastest option if you're under 65, your license hasn't been suspended or revoked, and you don't need to change your address or name. Mail renewal is also available for certain drivers, though it takes longer. In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license is expired by more than five years, if you need to update your photo, or if you have a medical condition that requires a new evaluation.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut offers online renewal for most drivers under 65 whose licenses expired within the last five years and who don't need to change their address or name.
  • You can renew by mail if you meet the same requirements as online renewal, but the process takes two to three weeks.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need a new photo, or if you have certain medical conditions.
  • Bring your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to any in-person renewal appointment.
  • Connecticut licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to one year before your expiration date.

Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website

To renew online, go to ct.gov/dmv and select the online renewal option. You'll need your current Connecticut driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record and personal history.

Online renewal costs $72 for an eight-year license. You'll receive a temporary digital license when ready after approval, which you can use right away on your phone. Your physical license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. This option is not available if your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years, or if you need to change your address or name.

Mail renewal for Connecticut drivers

If you prefer not to go online or visit a DMV office, you can renew by mail. read the process for Driver License or Permit (Form DL 43) from ct.gov/dmv, fill it out completely, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with your current license and the renewal fee of $72.

Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your process. You cannot use mail renewal if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need a new photo, or if you're changing your address or name. The DMV will contact you if your process is incomplete or if they need additional documents.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

Visit a Connecticut DMV office if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need a new photo, if you're changing your address or name, or if you have a medical condition that requires re-evaluation. Bring your current license, proof of Connecticut residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or ITIN.

In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. You can make an appointment online at ct.gov/dmv to avoid waiting. The cost is $72 for an eight-year license. You'll receive your new license on the spot if everything is in order, though some offices may mail it to you instead.

What documents you need for renewal

For any type of renewal, have your current Connecticut driver's license ready. If you're renewing in person or by mail, you'll also need proof of your current address in Connecticut. Acceptable documents include a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address.

You must provide your Social Security number or ITIN. If you're changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're changing your address, the DMV will update it during the renewal process — you don't need a separate form.

Renewal fees and license validity

Connecticut driver's licenses are valid for eight years from the date of issue. The renewal fee is $72 for a standard eight-year license. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, which means you can start the process as soon as you receive a renewal notice from the DMV.

If your license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit to a DMV office, a written test, and a road test. The cost for a new license is higher than renewal, so renewing before your license expires is important.

What to do if your license is suspended or revoked

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked Connecticut license through any method. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the DMV. Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or medical conditions that make you unsafe to drive.

Contact the Connecticut DMV directly to find out why your license is suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take to restore it. Once your suspension or revocation is lifted, you can then renew your license using the standard process. The DMV can tell you over the phone whether you're may be able to access to renew and which method will work for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license if it's been expired for more than a year?

If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead, which requires an in-person visit, a written test, and a road test. If it expired less than five years ago, you can still renew it in person at a DMV office, though online and mail renewal won't be available to you.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?

You'll receive a temporary digital license on your phone when ready after your online renewal is approved. Your physical license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use the digital license right away for most purposes, including driving.

Do I need an appointment to renew my license in person?

Appointments are not required, but the Connecticut DMV strongly recommends making one online at ct.gov/dmv to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait an hour or longer depending on how busy the office is.

What if I need to change my address when I renew?

You can change your address during any renewal method — online, by mail, or in person. If you're renewing online or by mail, the DMV will update your address automatically. If you're renewing in person, tell the DMV staff about the change and bring proof of your new Connecticut address.

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

Outstanding traffic fines can result in a license suspension, which prevents renewal. Contact the Connecticut DMV or the court that issued the ticket to find out whether your license is suspended and what you need to do to resolve it before you can renew.