Documents and steps to get your first Connecticut license

Connecticut requires six documents to issue a driver's license: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of Connecticut residency, a completed process form, your signature, and proof you passed the written and road tests. You'll submit these at a DMV office in person — there's no online or mail option for a first license. The process takes one visit if you have all documents ready, though the written and road tests may be scheduled for a later appointment depending on office wait times.

The state uses a REAL ID-compliant license as its standard. This means your license will work for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights and entering military bases. If you want a non-REAL ID license instead, you can request it, but most people get the REAL ID version without extra effort.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a birth certificate or passport, Social Security card or tax document, utility bill or lease, completed process, and proof of passing both written and road tests.
  • Connecticut DMV offices are in Wethersfield, Norwalk, Waterbury, and Danielson; you must visit in person with all documents.
  • Your license will be REAL ID-compliant by default, meaning it works for domestic air travel and federal building entry.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving; the road test is a 20-minute drive with an examiner.

Proof of identity documents Connecticut accepts

Connecticut accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, or state ID card as proof of identity. If you use a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with a raised or embossed seal — a photocopy or hospital record does not count. A passport or passport card is the easiest option because it covers both identity and citizenship in one document.

If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, you'll need to bring the original plus a certified English translation. The DMV will not accept a translation you make yourself; it must come from a professional translator or the issuing country's consulate.

Proof of Social Security number and residency

For your Social Security number, bring your actual Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return with your full SSN printed on it. A paystub with your full SSN also works. The DMV will not accept a document with a partial or masked number.

For Connecticut residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current Connecticut address. The document must have your name and address on it — a bill addressed to "Resident" will not work. If you're living with someone else and don't have a bill in your name, a notarized letter from the homeowner or landlord stating you live there is acceptable.

process form and signature requirements

You'll complete form DL-43 at the DMV office. Bring it filled out or fill it there — either way works. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and driving history. You'll sign the form in front of a DMV employee, and that signature becomes your license signature. You cannot sign it beforehand.

If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the process as well. Bring their ID so the DMV can verify they are who they say they are.

Written test content and passing score

Connecticut's written test has 25 multiple-choice questions covering road signs, traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You need 20 correct answers to pass — that's 80 percent. The test is offered in English and several other languages; ask the DMV which ones are available at your location.

You can take the test on the same day you submit your documents, or schedule it for another day. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back later. There's no limit to how many times you can retake the written test, but you must pass before you can schedule the road test.

Road test scheduling and what to expect

After you pass the written test, the DMV will schedule your road test. Wait times vary by location — some offices have openings within days, others within weeks. You'll drive a route set by the examiner, typically lasting 20 minutes. The test covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, parking, and responding to road conditions.

Bring the vehicle you'll be taking the test in, a valid learner's permit or out-of-state license, and proof of insurance for that vehicle. The vehicle must be registered and have working lights, wipers, brakes, and horn. If the vehicle fails inspection, you cannot take the test that day.

Connecticut DMV office locations and hours

Connecticut has four full-service DMV offices: Wethersfield (central), Norwalk (southwestern), Waterbury (central-western), and Danielson (northeastern). Each office handles driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and ID cards. Hours vary by location but most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some Saturday hours at select locations.

You do not need an appointment for a first license, but arriving early in the day typically means shorter waits. Check the Connecticut DMV website for current hours and any temporary closures before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my birth certificate or passport?

No. Connecticut requires original documents or certified copies for identity and residency proof. A photo or PDF on your phone will not be accepted. If you have a passport or passport card, bring the physical document itself.

What if I don't have a utility bill in my name for the residency requirement?

You can use a lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement instead. If none of those are available, a notarized letter from your landlord or homeowner confirming your address works. The document must show your name and current Connecticut address and be dated within 60 days.

Do I have to take the written and road tests on the same day?

No. You can take the written test when you submit your documents, then schedule the road test for another day after you pass. Many people do this because road test appointments may not be available when ready.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake it. The DMV will schedule your next attempt, usually within a few weeks depending on office availability. There's no limit to how many times you can retake the road test, but you must pass the written test first.

Is a Connecticut license automatically REAL ID, or do I have to ask for it?

It's automatic. Connecticut issues REAL ID-compliant licenses by default. Your license will work for domestic air travel and federal building entry without any extra request or fee. If you specifically want a non-REAL ID license instead, you can ask the DMV, but most people keep the REAL ID version.