Connecticut driver's license renewal basics

Connecticut lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The method you choose depends on your age, how long your license has been expired, and whether you need to update your address or photo. Most people under 65 with a valid license can renew online or by mail without visiting an office.

Your Connecticut license is valid for six years if you're under 65, or four years if you're 65 or older. You can renew up to one year before your expiration date, which means you don't have to wait until the last minute. The state sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires, but you don't have to wait for that notice to start the process.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut offers online renewal through the DMV website for most drivers under 65 with a valid license, and the process takes about 10 minutes.
  • By-mail renewal costs less than in-person renewal and works if your address hasn't changed and you don't need a new photo.
  • You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you're over 65, or if you need to change your address or photo.
  • Connecticut charges $72 for a six-year renewal (under 65) or $48 for a four-year renewal (65 and older) when renewing online or by mail.
  • If you renew online, you'll receive a temporary digital license when ready and your physical card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you're under 65 and your license is still valid. Go to ct.gov/dmv, click the renewal link, and create or log into your ConneCT account. You'll need your license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to start. The system will ask you to confirm your address and answer a few security questions about your driving history.

After you complete the form and pay the $72 fee by credit or debit card, you'll receive a temporary digital license on your phone that you can use when ready. This temporary license is valid for 30 days while your physical card is printed and mailed. Your new card should arrive within 7 to 10 business days. You don't need to upload a photo — Connecticut uses the photo from your current license.

Online renewal is not available if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you're 65 or older, if you've had a medical suspension, or if you need to change your address or photo. In those cases, you'll need to renew by mail or in person.

By-mail renewal and what you need to send

Mail renewal costs $72 for a six-year license (under 65) or $48 for a four-year license (65 and older). You'll need to send your current license, a completed process for Renewal form (Form DL-43), and a check or money order made out to "State of Connecticut." Do not send cash. You can read the form from ct.gov/dmv or call the DMV at 860-263-5700 to request one by mail.

Mail your renewal packet to the Connecticut DMV at the address listed on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks after the DMV receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, so if you've moved, you must renew in person instead. By-mail renewal also doesn't work if you need a new photo or if your license has been expired for more than five years.

Keep a copy of everything you send in case the DMV loses your packet. Some people also send their renewal by certified mail so they have proof of delivery, though this is not required.

In-person renewal at a Connecticut DMV office

You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you're 65 or older, if you need to change your address, if you need a new photo, or if you've had a medical suspension or other restriction. In-person renewal costs $72 for a six-year license (under 65) or $48 for a four-year license (65 and older).

Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a recent utility bill, lease, or bank statement). If you've changed your address since your license was issued, bring two proofs of your new address. You'll take a new photo at the DMV office, and your new license is usually ready the same day or within a few days.

Connecticut has DMV offices in Wethersfield, Norwalk, Waterbury, and New Britain. You can make an appointment online at ct.gov/dmv or call 860-263-5700. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are faster and reduce wait times, especially during busy seasons like spring and summer.

What happens if your license has been expired for a long time

If your Connecticut license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person and bring the same documents as a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address.

The DMV may require you to retake the written knowledge test or the road test if your license has been expired for a very long time, though this depends on how long it's been and the reason for the lapse. Call the DMV at 860-263-5700 before your visit to ask whether you'll need to test. If you do, you'll need to study the Connecticut Driver's Manual, which is free on the DMV website.

Renewing with a medical suspension or restriction

If your Connecticut license was suspended for medical reasons, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a DMV office and bring documentation from your doctor showing that you're now safe to drive. The DMV will review your medical records and may require you to pass a road test before your license is restored.

Medical suspensions are usually temporary and last 30 to 90 days while the DMV reviews your condition. Once the suspension period ends and your doctor clears you, you can renew in person. If the DMV denied your license for medical reasons, you have the right to request a hearing before a DMV hearing officer to appeal the decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license if I'm out of state?

Yes. If you're under 65 and your license is still valid, you can renew online from anywhere. If you prefer to renew by mail, you can send your documents from out of state, though processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. If you need to renew in person, you'll have to visit a Connecticut DMV office during a trip home or contact the DMV about other options.

What if I lost my license and need to renew?

You cannot renew online or by mail if you don't have your current license. You must visit a DMV office in person with proof of your Social Security number and current address. The DMV will issue a replacement license at the same time. Bring the same documents as a standard in-person renewal.

How much does Connecticut license renewal cost?

Connecticut charges $72 for a six-year renewal if you're under 65, or $48 for a four-year renewal if you're 65 or older. Online and by-mail renewal cost the same. In-person renewal at a DMV office costs the same amount, though some offices may charge a small additional fee for certain services.

Can I change my address when I renew?

You can change your address online or by mail if you're renewing online or by mail. If you're renewing in person, you'll need to bring two proofs of your new address. You cannot change your address if you're renewing by mail unless you visit a DMV office in person.

What if my name has changed since my license was issued?

If you've changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and a certified copy of the document showing your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The DMV will issue a new license with your updated name.