Connecticut Driver's License Renewal: The Basic Path

Connecticut lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Most people renew online through the Connecticut DMV website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $72 for an eight-year license. You can renew online if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have not had a name change since your last license, and your current address matches your DMV record.

Your Connecticut license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. The DMV sends renewal notices to your mailing address about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website is the fastest option and requires only your license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method.
  • You are may be able to access for online renewal only if your license is in good standing, your name has not changed, and your address on file is current.
  • Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send in your current license along with the completed form and payment.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office is necessary if you have a suspended license, need a name change, or prefer to renew face-to-face.
  • Connecticut licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration without penalty.

Renewing Online Through the Connecticut DMV Website

Online renewal is available at ct.gov/dmv under the "Renew Your License" section. You will need your current Connecticut driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a credit or debit card. The system will verify your identity using information from your DMV record, then ask you to confirm your address and any other details that may have changed.

Once you submit your renewal online, you will receive a confirmation number when ready. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. During this time, your current license remains valid, so you can continue to drive. If you need to drive out of state before your new license arrives, you can print the confirmation page and carry it with your current license as proof of renewal.

Renewing by Mail

To renew by mail, read the process for Driver's License or Permit (Form DL-43) from the Connecticut DMV website or pick one up at any DMV office. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current license and a check or money order for $72 made payable to "Connecticut DMV."

Send your packet to the Connecticut DMV at the address listed on the form. Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your materials. Your current license remains valid during this period. If you are concerned about your license arriving on time, online renewal is faster and gives you an when ready confirmation number.

Renewing in Person at a DMV Office

Visit any Connecticut DMV office with your current license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). Bring a check or debit card for the $72 renewal fee. You do not need an appointment for license renewal, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

In-person renewal is required if your license is suspended or revoked, if you have changed your name since your last license was issued, or if you need to update your address and online renewal is not available to you. The DMV will take a new photo and issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within a few days, depending on the office.

When You Cannot Renew Online

Online renewal is not available if your license is suspended, revoked, or cancelled. It is also not available if you have had a legal name change since your last license was issued—you will need to visit a DMV office in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order).

If your address on file with the DMV is different from your current address and you have not updated it, you may not be able to complete online renewal. In this case, you can either visit a DMV office to update your address and renew at the same time, or call the Connecticut DMV at 860-263-5700 to update your address by phone before attempting online renewal.

What Happens If Your License Expires

Driving with an expired Connecticut license is illegal, even if you have submitted a renewal process. If you are pulled over, you can face a fine. However, if you can show proof that you submitted your renewal before the expiration date—such as an online confirmation number or a certified mail receipt—an officer may issue a warning instead of a ticket.

If your license has already expired and you did not renew before expiration, you can still renew using any of the three methods above. There is no additional penalty fee for renewing after expiration, but you should not drive until your new license arrives or you renew in person at a DMV office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license if I have moved out of state?

If you have moved out of state, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state rather than renew your Connecticut license. However, if you still maintain a Connecticut address or plan to return, you can renew by mail or in person at a Connecticut DMV office.

What if I lost my current license and need to renew?

You cannot renew online without your current license number. Visit a DMV office with proof of identity and proof of your Social Security number. The DMV will issue you a replacement license and can renew it at the same time for a combined fee.

How much does it cost to renew a Connecticut driver's license?

A standard eight-year license renewal costs $72. If you are 65 or older, the renewal fee is $24. Payment is accepted by credit card online, by check or money order by mail, or by cash, check, or debit card in person at a DMV office.

Can I renew my license if it was suspended for unpaid traffic fines?

No. You must resolve the suspension first by paying the outstanding fines or completing any required court proceedings. Contact the Connecticut DMV or the court that issued the suspension to find out what steps you need to take before you can renew.

How long does it take to receive my renewed license in the mail?

Online and in-person renewals typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewals take two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your process. Your current license remains valid during this entire period.