Connecticut driver's license renewal basics

Connecticut lets you renew your license online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Which method you can use depends on your age, how long your license has been expired, and whether you need a Real ID-compliant document. Most people under 65 with a valid or recently expired license can renew online or by mail without visiting an office.

Your Connecticut license is valid for six years if you are under 65, and eight years if you are 65 or older. You can renew up to one year before your expiration date, so you do not have to wait until the last moment. The state sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for that notice to start the process.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut offers online and mail renewal for most drivers, but you must be under 65 and have a valid or recently expired license to use these methods.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses require a visit to a DMV office and proof of citizenship or legal residency, such as a passport or birth certificate.
  • Licenses expire every six years for drivers under 65 and every eight years for drivers 65 and older.
  • If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test.

Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website

The Connecticut DMV allows online renewal at ct.gov/dmv if your license is still valid or expired for fewer than 60 days. You will need your license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you receive a temporary digital license when ready that you can use while your physical card is mailed.

Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Online renewal costs the same as in-person renewal — the fee depends on whether you are renewing a standard license or upgrading to a Real ID. If you need a Real ID, you cannot renew online; you must go to a DMV office in person.

Mail renewal and what documents to send

You can renew by mail if your license is valid or expired for fewer than 60 days and you do not need a Real ID upgrade. Complete the renewal form (DL 43), which you can read from the DMV website or request by phone at 860-263-5700. Include your current license, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and a copy of your signature (your current license serves this purpose).

Mail your completed form and documents to the Connecticut DMV at the address listed on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks after the DMV receives your packet. Keep a copy of everything you send, and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery. If you do not receive your new license within four weeks, contact the DMV to confirm they received your process.

In-person renewal at a Connecticut DMV office

Visit a DMV office if your license has been expired for more than 60 days, if you are upgrading to a Real ID, or if you prefer to renew in person. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your address (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days). If you are upgrading to a Real ID, you must also bring proof of citizenship or legal residency, such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers.

Connecticut DMV offices are located in Wethersfield, Waterbury, Norwalk, and Danielson. You can make an appointment online at ct.gov/dmv or by phone. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are served first. Processing at the office takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Real ID requirements and upgrade costs

Connecticut Real ID licenses are required to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings starting May 7, 2025. A Real ID looks like a standard license but has a gold star in the upper right corner. You can only obtain or upgrade to a Real ID in person at a DMV office.

To upgrade to a Real ID, bring your current license, proof of citizenship or legal residency (passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or consular report of birth abroad), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. The upgrade fee is the same as a standard license renewal. If you do not upgrade by the important date, you can still use your standard license for driving, but you will need a passport or other federal ID to fly domestically.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than five years

If your Connecticut license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a DMV office in person. The DMV may require you to retake the written knowledge test and vision test, depending on how long your license has been expired and your age. Call the DMV at 860-263-5700 before your visit to ask whether you need to study for the test.

Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. If you do not have your expired license, bring a second form of ID such as a passport or state ID card. The office visit will take longer than a standard renewal because of the testing, so plan for 30 to 45 minutes.

Renewal fees and payment methods

Connecticut renewal fees vary based on your age and the type of license. A standard six-year license renewal for drivers under 65 costs one amount, while an eight-year renewal for drivers 65 and older costs another. Real ID upgrades cost the same as standard renewals. The DMV website lists current fees at ct.gov/dmv.

Online renewal accepts credit cards, debit cards, and e-checks. Mail renewal requires a check or money order made out to the State of Connecticut. In-person renewal accepts cash, checks, debit cards, and credit cards. If you are renewing by mail and your check is returned for insufficient funds, the DMV will contact you to arrange payment before processing your renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license if I just moved to another state?

No. You must renew your Connecticut license in Connecticut, even if you have moved. If you have moved out of state permanently, you should obtain a license in your new state instead. Contact the DMV in your new state for their renewal process.

What if I lost my license before it expired?

You will need to replace your lost license before you can renew it. Visit a DMV office with proof of your identity and address. The replacement fee is separate from the renewal fee. Once you have your replacement license, you can renew it using any of the three methods (online, mail, or in person).

How long can I drive on my temporary paper license?

Your temporary paper license is valid until your plastic card arrives by mail, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days. If your plastic card does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DMV. Do not drive without a valid license, even if you are waiting for your card.

Do I need to pass a vision test to renew my license in Connecticut?

If you renew online or by mail, you do not take a vision test. If you renew in person, the DMV will conduct a vision screening. If you fail the screening, you may be required to see an eye doctor and provide a vision report before your license is issued.

Can I renew my license if it was suspended or revoked?

No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the Connecticut DMV before you can renew. Contact the DMV at 860-263-5700 to find out what steps you need to take to clear the suspension or revocation.