Connecticut's online renewal process works through the DMV's website

You can renew your Connecticut driver's license online if you meet a few basic requirements. The state's Department of Motor Vehicles lets you complete the entire process from home — no visit to an office needed. You'll answer questions about your current information, pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card, and receive a confirmation. Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Not everyone can use the online option. You must have a valid Connecticut license that is not expired by more than 5 years, be between 18 and 69 years old, and have no medical or vision restrictions that require a road test or in-person exam. If your license is suspended, revoked, or if you need to change your address, you'll need to visit a DMV office instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut's online renewal is available at ct.gov/dmv if your current license is valid and not more than 5 years expired.
  • You must be between 18 and 69 years old with no medical or vision restrictions to renew online.
  • The renewal fee is paid by credit or debit card during the online process, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license is suspended, revoked, or you need to change your address, you must visit a DMV office in person.

What you need before you start

Gather your current Connecticut driver's license and a valid payment method — Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover. You'll also need your Social Security number and date of birth. Have your current mailing address ready, or the address you want printed on your new license if you've moved.

If you've changed your name since your last license was issued, you cannot renew online. You'll need to visit a DMV office and bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

The step-by-step renewal process

Go to ct.gov/dmv and look for the online services section. Select "Renew Your Driver's License" and choose the online option. You'll be asked to enter your license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your current information from the DMV database.

Review all the details on the screen — name, address, height, eye color, and any restrictions. If everything is correct, confirm it. If your address has changed, update it now. Next, you'll answer a few questions about your medical history and vision. Answer honestly; these questions determine whether you're safe to renew online or need an in-person exam.

Once you've confirmed your information and answered the medical questions, you'll see the renewal fee. As of 2024, a standard five-year renewal costs $97. Enter your payment information and submit. You'll receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Save both.

What happens after you submit

The DMV processes your renewal within 1 to 2 business days. Your new license is printed and mailed to the address you provided. Standard mail delivery takes 5 to 8 more days, so expect your license to arrive within 7 to 10 business days total from the date you submitted.

You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait for the new one to arrive. If you need to prove your license number or status before the new card arrives, you can print your confirmation email or log back into ct.gov/dmv to view your renewal status.

When you cannot renew online

If your license has been expired for more than 5 years, you must visit a DMV office. The same applies if you're 70 or older — Connecticut requires an in-person vision test for drivers in that age group. If your license is suspended or revoked for any reason, online renewal is not an option.

Medical or vision restrictions on your current license also mean you need an office visit. If you've been diagnosed with a condition that affects your ability to drive safely, or if your last eye exam showed changes, the DMV may require you to take a new vision test or provide a medical form signed by your doctor before renewing.

Address changes alone do not prevent online renewal — you can update your address as part of the online process. However, if you're changing your name, you must bring legal documentation to an office.

Renewing in person if online doesn't work for you

If you don't meet the requirements for online renewal, you'll need to visit a DMV office. Bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you're changing your name, bring the certified legal document as well.

You can find office locations and hours at ct.gov/dmv. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Check your local office's policy before you go. In-person renewals are usually completed the same day, and you can request a temporary paper license to use while your new card is mailed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it's already expired?

Yes, as long as it expired less than 5 years ago. If it's been expired longer than that, you'll need to visit a DMV office and may need to retake the written test. Check your license expiration date before you start the online process.

What if I get an error message when I try to log in?

Double-check that you've entered your license number, date of birth, and Social Security number exactly as they appear on your license and in the DMV database. If the error continues, try again later — the system may be temporarily down. If it persists, call the DMV at 860-263-5700 or visit an office.

Can I renew online if I wear glasses or contacts?

Yes. Wearing corrective lenses is not a restriction that prevents online renewal. Your license will show that you must wear them while driving. If your vision has changed significantly since your last exam, you may want to visit an eye doctor first, but you can still renew online.

How long is my new license valid for?

Connecticut driver's licenses are valid for five years from the date of renewal. Your new license will show the expiration date. You'll receive a reminder in the mail about 60 days before it expires.

What if my payment doesn't go through?

The system will tell you when ready if your card was declined. Check that you've entered the card number, expiration date, and CVV correctly. If the problem continues, try a different card. If you still have trouble, you can renew in person at a DMV office and pay by cash, check, or card.