Connecticut Driver License Renewal: What You Need to Know
Connecticut allows you to renew your driver license online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The method you choose depends on your license type, how much time remains before expiration, and whether you need to update your address or other information. Most standard renewals can be completed without a visit to the DMV, but certain situations require an in-person appointment.
Your Connecticut license is valid for six years from the date of issue. The state sends renewal notices by mail approximately 60 days before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for that notice to begin the renewal process. You can renew up to one year before your current license expires.
Key Takeaways
- Connecticut offers online renewal for most drivers, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $127 for a six-year license.
- You must renew in person if your license is suspended, revoked, or if you need to change your name, address, or medical information.
- Mail renewal is available but takes 7 to 10 business days; online renewal is when ready and you receive your license within 7 to 10 business days.
- You will need your current Connecticut license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to renew online.
- If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test.
Online Renewal: The Fastest Route
The Connecticut DMV website allows you to renew online through the state's portal at ct.gov/dmv. This method works for most drivers whose licenses are not suspended or revoked and who do not need to update their address, name, or medical information. The process takes about 10 minutes and you can complete it from home at any time of day.
To renew online, you will need your current Connecticut driver license number, your Social Security number, and a valid credit or debit card. The renewal fee is $127 for a six-year license. After you submit your process and payment, you will receive a confirmation email. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. During that time, your current license remains valid.
Online renewal is not available if you are renewing a commercial driver license (CDL), if your license is suspended or revoked, or if you have outstanding violations or fines. You also cannot renew online if you need to change your name, address, or medical information on your license.
Mail Renewal: When You Prefer Not to Go Online
You can renew by mail if you meet the same requirements as online renewal — your license must be valid, not suspended or revoked, and you cannot be changing your name, address, or medical information. To renew by mail, read the process for Driver License or Permit (Form DL-43) from the Connecticut DMV website or request one by calling the DMV at 860-263-5700.
Complete the form, sign it, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with your payment of $127. Include a copy of your current license or a valid form of identification. Mail renewal typically takes 7 to 10 business days from the time the DMV receives your process. Your current license remains valid during this period.
Mail renewal is slower than online renewal and carries a small risk that your process could be lost or delayed in the postal system. For this reason, online renewal is the more reliable option if you are able to use it.
In-Person Renewal at a DMV Office
You must renew in person if your license is suspended or revoked, if you need to change your name, address, or medical information, or if your license has been expired for more than one year. You will also need to visit a DMV office if you are renewing a commercial driver license or if you have outstanding violations or fines that must be resolved.
Connecticut DMV offices are located in Wethersfield, Danbury, Waterbury, and New Haven. You can schedule an appointment online at ct.gov/dmv or by calling 860-263-5700. Walk-ins are accepted but appointments are recommended to avoid long wait times. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment of $127 for a six-year license.
If your license has been expired for more than one year, you may be required to retake the written knowledge test and the road test. The DMV will inform you of this requirement when you schedule your appointment. In-person renewal is usually completed the same day, and you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to you.
Documents and Fees You Will Need
The renewal fee for a standard six-year Connecticut driver license is $127. This fee applies whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Connecticut does not offer shorter renewal periods, so you cannot pay a reduced fee for a license valid for fewer than six years.
For online or mail renewal, you need only your current license number and Social Security number. For in-person renewal, bring your current license and one form of proof of residency such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
Connecticut accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover for online payments. By mail, you can pay by check or money order. In person, you can pay by cash, check, money order, or card.
Address Changes and Other Updates
If you have moved since your license was issued, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person to update your address. Bring your current license and proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days).
The same rule applies if you need to change your name, update your medical information, or correct any other information on your license. These changes require an in-person visit and an appointment is recommended. The fee for an address change or other update is $27 if you are not renewing your license at the same time. If you are renewing and updating your information together, you pay only the $127 renewal fee.
What Happens If Your License Expires
If your license expires before you renew, you cannot legally drive in Connecticut. Driving with an expired license can result in a fine of up to $200 and points on your driving record. If your license has been expired for fewer than 90 days, you can still renew online or by mail. If it has been expired for 90 days or more, you must renew in person.
If your license has been expired for more than one year, the DMV may require you to retake the written test and the road test before issuing a new license. This is at the discretion of the DMV examiner. To avoid this situation, renew your license before it expires or within 90 days of expiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Connecticut license if I have an outstanding ticket or fine?
No. You cannot renew online or by mail if you have unpaid violations or fines. You must resolve these issues first by paying the fine or contacting the court. Once resolved, you can renew. If you have outstanding issues, you must renew in person at a DMV office, where staff can help you determine what needs to be paid before renewal can proceed.
How long does it take to receive my new license after I renew online?
Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you submit your online process. Your current license remains valid during this time, so you can continue to drive legally. If you do not receive your new license within 10 business days, contact the DMV at 860-263-5700.
What if I need to renew my license but I am out of state?
You can renew online or by mail from anywhere, as long as you meet the requirements for those methods. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with the DMV. If you need to update your address before renewing, you must do so in person at a Connecticut DMV office or by contacting the DMV directly.
Do I need to retake the written test when I renew?
No, you do not retake the written test during a standard renewal. However, if your license has been expired for more than one year, the DMV may require you to retake the written test and the road test. This is determined on a case-by-case basis when you explore for renewal.
Can I renew my commercial driver license online?
No. Commercial driver licenses must be renewed in person at a DMV office. You will need to bring your current CDL, proof of residency, and payment of $127. Appointments are recommended and can be scheduled at ct.gov/dmv or by calling 860-263-5700.