How to Renew Your Connecticut Driver's License

Connecticut driver's license renewal by mail or online

Connecticut lets you renew your driver's license by mail or online if you meet a few basic conditions. You can renew online through the Connecticut DMV portal if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and your license is not expired by more than five years. If you do not meet those conditions, or prefer to renew in person, you can mail your renewal process to the DMV with your current license and the required fee.

The online route is faster — you can complete it in minutes and receive your new license by mail within two to three weeks. The mail route takes longer but requires no trip to a DMV office. In-person renewal at a DMV branch is also an option if you want to handle it when ready or need to update your photo or address.

Key Takeaways

Connecticut offers online renewal through the DMV website if your license is valid, not suspended, and expired less than five years ago.
Mail renewal requires your current license, a completed process form, and the renewal fee sent to the DMV address listed on the form.
Your new license arrives by mail within two to three weeks for online renewal, or three to four weeks for mail renewal.
In-person renewal at a DMV branch is necessary if your license is suspended, you have medical restrictions, or you need to update your photo.
Connecticut does not require a Real ID upgrade to renew a standard driver's license, but Real ID is needed for federal air travel starting May 2025.

Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website

To renew online, go to the Connecticut DMV website and log into your account or create one if you do not have one already. You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to start. The system will verify your information and show you whether you are may be able to access to renew online.

If you are may be able to access, you will answer questions about your address, medical conditions, and any name changes. You will pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card — the cost is $72 for an eight-year license for drivers 65 and older, or $144 for drivers under 65. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.

You cannot renew online if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired by more than five years. You also cannot renew online if you have medical restrictions that require a doctor's statement or if you need to change your photo. In those cases, you must visit a DMV branch in person.

Mail renewal with a paper process

To renew by mail, read the driver's license renewal form from the Connecticut DMV website or request one by phone at 860-263-5700. The form is called the process for Driver's License or Permit (Form DL-43). Fill it out completely, including your current address and any changes to your name or medical information.

Mail the completed form along with your current driver's license and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address printed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with postage if you want your new license mailed back to you more quickly. The DMV will process your renewal in three to four weeks and mail your new license to the address you provided.

Mail renewal is slower than online renewal but works if you do not have internet access or prefer not to use the online system. It is also an option if you are renewing from outside Connecticut or if you do not want to visit a DMV office.

In-person renewal at a Connecticut DMV branch

You can renew your license in person at any Connecticut DMV branch. Bring your current driver's 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). If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

In-person renewal is required if your license is suspended or revoked, if you have medical restrictions that need updating, or if you want a new photo. It is also the fastest way to get your license if you need it when ready — you can walk out with a temporary paper license the same day and receive your plastic license by mail within two weeks.

Connecticut DMV branches are located throughout the state. You can find the nearest one and check hours on the Connecticut DMV website. Some branches require an appointment, while others accept walk-ins. Call ahead or check online before you go to avoid a long wait.

What to bring and what it costs

For any renewal method, you will need your current Connecticut driver's license. For online renewal, you only need your license number and personal information — nothing to mail or bring in person. For mail renewal, send your license, the completed form, and the fee. For in-person renewal, bring your license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address.

The renewal fee depends on your age and the type of license. A standard eight-year license costs $144 for drivers under 65 and $72 for drivers 65 and older. A four-year license costs $72 for drivers under 65 and $36 for drivers 65 and older. If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is higher — $240 for eight years or $120 for four years. Connecticut accepts cash, check, money order, and credit or debit card, depending on the renewal method.

Real ID and Connecticut driver's license renewal

Connecticut driver's licenses are not Real ID compliant by default. Real ID is a federal standard required for domestic air travel, entry to federal buildings, and access to military bases starting May 7, 2025. If you need Real ID, you must request it when you renew your license.

To get a Real ID driver's license, you must renew in person at a DMV branch. You will need to bring your current license, proof of Social Security number, proof of address, and proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate). The fee for a Real ID license is the same as a standard license renewal. Your Real ID license will be marked with a gold star in the upper right corner and will arrive by mail within two weeks.

If you renew online or by mail, you will receive a standard (non-Real ID) license. You can upgrade to Real ID at any time by visiting a DMV branch in person, even if your license is not yet expired.

Timeline and what to expect after renewal

Online renewal is the fastest option — your new license arrives within two to three weeks. Mail renewal takes three to four weeks from the time the DMV receives your process. In-person renewal gives you a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic license within two weeks.

Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or return it to the DMV if you prefer. If your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the Connecticut DMV at 860-263-5700 to check the status.

Connecticut will send your new license to the address you provided on your process. If you move before your new license arrives, you can update your address with the DMV by phone or online, and they will redirect your license to your new address. If your license is lost or stolen after you renew, you can report it to the DMV and request a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license if it expired more than five years ago?

No, you cannot renew online if your license expired more than five years ago. You must renew in person at a DMV branch or by mail. The DMV may require you to pass a vision test and written exam if your license has been expired for a long time.

What if my address changed since my last license?

You can update your address during online or mail renewal by providing your new address on the process. If you renew in person, bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. Your new license will be mailed to your updated address.

Do I need to renew my license in person if I have a medical condition?

If your medical condition affects your ability to drive safely, you must renew in person so the DMV can review your condition and any doctor's statement. If your condition is stable and does not affect your driving, you may be able to renew online or by mail.

How long is a Connecticut driver's license valid after renewal?

A standard Connecticut driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. Drivers 65 and older can choose a four-year license instead. Your new license will show the expiration date on the front.

What happens if I renew online but then need to change my information?

If you need to change your information after you renew online but before your new license arrives, contact the Connecticut DMV at 860-263-5700 as soon as possible. They may be able to update your information before your license is printed, or you may need to renew again.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.