Connecticut lets you renew online if you meet basic requirements
You can renew your Connecticut driver's license online through the DMV's website if your license is not expired by more than one year, you have no medical suspensions, and you have not had certain violations in the past few years. The process takes about 10 minutes, costs the standard renewal fee (currently $72 for an eight-year license), and you receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Not everyone can use the online route. If your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for longer than 12 months, or if you need to update your address, name, or other personal information beyond what the online system allows, you must renew in person at a DMV office.
Key Takeaways
- Connecticut's online renewal works only if your license expired within the last 12 months and you have no active suspensions or recent violations.
- You will need your current Connecticut license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method to complete the renewal online.
- The renewal fee is $72 for an eight-year license, and you pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check during the online process.
- Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can continue driving on your expired license until the new one arrives.
- If you need to change your address, name, or other information, you must visit a DMV office in person instead of renewing online.
Who can renew online and who cannot
Connecticut's online renewal system is open to drivers whose license expired no more than 12 months ago. If your license has been expired for longer than a year, the online system will reject your request, and you will need to visit a DMV office to renew in person.
You also cannot renew online if your license is currently suspended or revoked, or if you have been convicted of certain traffic violations within the past few years. The DMV's online system checks your driving record automatically when you begin the renewal process. If a suspension or disqualifying violation appears, the system will tell you to renew in person.
Address changes, name changes, and corrections to other personal information also require an in-person visit. The online system does not allow you to update these details during renewal. If you need to change your address at the same time you renew, you must go to a DMV office.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you begin the online renewal:
- Your current Connecticut driver's license (you will need the license number)
- The last four digits of your Social Security number
- A valid credit card, debit card, or bank account for the renewal fee
- An email address where you can receive a confirmation
You do not need to print anything or upload documents. The online system verifies your identity using information already in the DMV database. If the system cannot verify you, it will direct you to renew in person.
The step-by-step renewal process
Go to the Connecticut DMV website and look for the online renewal option. You will be directed to a find portal where you enter your license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system verifies this information against your record.
Next, you review the information on file: your name, address, date of birth, and other details. If everything is correct, you proceed to the payment screen. If any information is wrong, the system will stop and tell you to renew in person.
Enter your payment information and submit. You will receive a confirmation number and an email receipt. The system will tell you when to expect your new license in the mail—typically 7 to 10 business days.
Keep your confirmation number. If you need to check the status of your renewal or have questions later, you will need this number.
What happens after you submit your renewal
Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. You can continue to drive, use your license as identification, and carry it with you. There is no gap in your driving privileges.
The DMV mails your new license to the address on file. If you have moved recently and updated your address in person at a DMV office, the new license goes to your current address. If you have not updated your address with the DMV, the license goes to the address in the system, which may be old.
If your new license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the DMV with your confirmation number. They can check the status and reissue if necessary.
When you must renew in person instead
Visit a DMV office if your license has been expired for more than 12 months, if you have a suspension or revocation on your record, or if you need to change your address or name. You will also need to renew in person if you want to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant license, which requires proof of identity and residency documents.
In-person renewal takes longer than online renewal. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate). Processing times vary by location and how busy the office is, but plan for at least 30 minutes to an hour.
Renewal fees and payment
The standard renewal fee for a Connecticut driver's license is $72 for an eight-year license. You pay this fee online using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check. The DMV does not accept cash, checks, or money orders for online renewals.
If you renew in person at a DMV office, you can pay by cash, check, credit card, or debit card. Some offices may have different payment options, so check the DMV website for your local office's details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew online if my license expired more than a year ago?
No. Connecticut's online renewal system only works if your license expired within the last 12 months. If it has been expired longer, you must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of residency.
What if the online system says I cannot renew online?
The system will reject your renewal if you have a suspension, revocation, or disqualifying violation on your record, or if your license has been expired for more than 12 months. Visit a DMV office in person. Bring your license and be prepared to discuss any issues the system flagged.
Can I change my address while renewing online?
No. The online renewal system does not allow address changes. If you need to update your address, you must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?
The DMV mails your new license within 7 to 10 business days of your online renewal. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can continue to drive and use it as identification during this time.
What if my new license does not arrive after 10 days?
Contact the Connecticut DMV with your confirmation number. They can check whether your renewal was processed and reissue your license if needed. Have your confirmation number ready when you call or visit.