Connecticut DMV Locations and Online Renewal

You can renew your Connecticut driver's license in three ways: online through the Connecticut DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV branch. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how soon you need it, and whether you can renew without a new photo.

Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements — your license must not be expired by more than five years, you must have a valid Social Security number on file, and you cannot need a new photo. The Connecticut DMV processes online renewals within one to two weeks. Mail renewal takes three to four weeks. In-person renewal at a DMV office is when ready: you walk out with your renewed license the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut offers online renewal through the DMV website for licenses expired no more than five years ago, with results in one to two weeks.
  • Mail renewal takes three to four weeks and requires you to send your current license, a completed form, and payment to the DMV address in Wethersfield.
  • In-person renewal at any Connecticut DMV branch takes about 30 minutes and gives you your new license when ready.
  • You must bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and payment when renewing in person; requirements vary slightly for mail and online renewal.
  • Connecticut DMV offices are located in Wethersfield, Waterbury, Norwalk, and Danielson, plus several satellite locations in larger towns.

Online Renewal Through the Connecticut DMV Website

The Connecticut DMV website at ct.gov/dmv is where you start an online renewal. You will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit card or debit card). The system will ask you to confirm your personal information and current address.

Online renewal works only if your license expired within the last five years and you do not need a new photo. If your license has been expired longer than five years, or if you have changed your name, address, or appearance significantly since your last photo, you must renew in person or by mail. The online system will tell you when ready whether you are able to proceed.

Once you complete the online form and pay the renewal fee, the Connecticut DMV will mail your new license to the address on file. You should receive it within one to two weeks. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives.

Mail Renewal and What to Send

To renew by mail, you will need to send your current driver's license, a completed renewal form, and payment to the Connecticut DMV. The form you need is the process for Driver's License or Permit (Form DL-43), which you can read from ct.gov/dmv or request by phone at 860-263-5700.

Mail your package to: Connecticut DMV, 60 State Street, Wethersfield, CT 06161. Include your current license, the completed form, and a check or money order for the renewal fee. Do not send cash. Mail renewal takes three to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope, so factor in postal delivery time on both ends.

Mail renewal is a good option if you cannot visit an office in person and your license is not expired by more than five years. If your license has been expired longer than that, or if you need a new photo, you must renew in person.

In-Person Renewal at DMV Offices

Connecticut operates four full-service DMV branches where you can renew in person: Wethersfield (the main office), Waterbury, Norwalk, and Danielson. Several towns also host satellite offices with limited hours. You can find the complete list of locations, hours, and services at ct.gov/dmv or by calling 860-263-5700.

In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes from arrival to departure. You will receive your new license the same day. Bring your current driver's license, your Social Security card, and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

Payment at a DMV office can be made by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The renewal fee varies depending on how long your new license will be valid. Connecticut offers both four-year and six-year licenses; the six-year option costs more but lasts longer.

What to Bring and Fees

For in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, Social Security card, and proof of address. Proof of address must be a document dated within the last 60 days with your name and current Connecticut address — examples include a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or insurance bill. A cell phone bill or credit card statement will not work.

The renewal fee depends on the license term you choose. A four-year renewal costs less than a six-year renewal. Connecticut also charges a small fee if you need a duplicate license or if you are renewing after your license has been expired for more than five years. The DMV website lists current fees, or you can call 860-263-5700 to confirm the exact amount before you visit.

If you are renewing online or by mail, you will pay by credit card or debit card (online) or by check or money order (mail). Do not send cash through the mail.

DMV Locations and Hours

The main Connecticut DMV office is in Wethersfield at 60 State Street. This location is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Waterbury branch is at 1 Mad Dog Lane, the Norwalk branch is at 10 Westport Road, and the Danielson branch is at 135 Killingly Commons Road. Each has its own hours, which may differ from the main office.

Many towns also operate satellite DMV offices with limited hours and services. These satellite locations can handle renewals but may have shorter hours or be open only certain days of the week. Check ct.gov/dmv or call 860-263-5700 to find the satellite office nearest you and confirm its hours before you visit.

The DMV website also shows wait times at each location, updated throughout the day. If you are planning an in-person visit, checking the wait time before you leave home can help you choose the best time to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license if it expired more than five years ago?

No, not online or by mail. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your current (expired) license, Social Security card, and proof of address. The DMV will take a new photo and issue your renewed license on the spot.

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

Online renewals are processed within one to two weeks, and the DMV mails your new license to your address on file. Your old license stays valid until the new one arrives, so there is no gap in your driving privileges.

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

You can update your address online, by mail, or in person. If you renew online, the system will ask you to confirm or update your address before you submit. If you renew in person, bring proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days). By mail, include your new address on the form.

Do I need an appointment to renew at a DMV office?

Connecticut DMV offices do not require appointments for renewals. You can walk in during business hours. However, wait times vary by location and time of day. Check ct.gov/dmv for current wait times before you visit.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must renew in person if you cannot do it online or by mail yourself. The DMV requires your signature and will take a new photo. A family member or representative cannot complete the renewal on your behalf.