What Form You Need and Where to Get It

Connecticut's learner's permit process is Form DL 259, the official document the Department of Motor Vehicles uses to process new learner's permits. You can get this form in three ways: read it from the Connecticut DMV website, pick up a printed copy at any DMV branch office, or request it by mail from the DMV.

The form itself is straightforward — it's a single page with sections for your personal information, address, medical history, and signature. You don't fill it out and mail it in; instead, you bring the completed form with you when you go to the DMV office to explore in person. The DMV staff will review it, take your photo, and process your learner's permit on the same day if everything is correct.

Key Takeaways

  • Form DL 259 is the only form Connecticut requires for a learner's permit, and you must bring it completed to your DMV appointment.
  • You need to provide your Social Security number, current address, date of birth, and information about any medical conditions that affect your driving.
  • Bring your birth certificate or passport, proof of Connecticut residency, and your Social Security card or tax return to the DMV along with the completed form.
  • The form asks whether you have ever been convicted of certain traffic or criminal offenses — answer honestly, as the DMV will verify this information.
  • You must sign the form in front of a DMV employee; a signature on the form before you arrive is not acceptable.

Sections of Form DL 259 You'll Fill Out

The form is divided into clear sections. Start with your full legal name, date of birth, and current address. Use the name that appears on your birth certificate or passport — this must match exactly. If you've moved recently, use your current address, not a previous one.

Next, you'll enter your Social Security number and provide information about your physical characteristics: height, eye color, and hair color. These details go on your actual permit card, so accuracy matters. If you wear corrective lenses (glasses or contacts), you must check that box — it will appear on your permit and tells law enforcement you must wear them while driving.

The medical history section asks about conditions like epilepsy, diabetes, heart disease, or loss of consciousness. Answer these questions truthfully. The DMV uses this information to determine whether you need a medical evaluation before driving. If you're unsure whether a condition applies to you, ask your doctor or call the DMV before your appointment.

The Conviction and Violation History Section

Form DL 259 includes questions about traffic violations, criminal convictions, and suspensions or revocations of your driving privileges. This section is critical: you must answer every question, and you must answer truthfully. The DMV has access to court records and the National Driver Register, so they will learn about you don't disclose something.

If you have been convicted of a felony, a misdemeanor involving drugs or alcohol, or a serious traffic violation (like reckless driving), you must report it. If you've had a license suspended or revoked in Connecticut or any other state, report that too. If you answer "yes" to any of these questions, the DMV may require additional documentation or a hearing before issuing your permit, but lying on the form will result in denial and possible legal consequences.

If you have no violations or convictions, check "no" and move on. Don't overthink this section — minor traffic tickets that resulted in fines only (not points or suspension) typically don't need to be reported, but if you're uncertain, contact the DMV.

What You Must Bring to the DMV Along With the Form

Bringing Form DL 259 is only half the battle. You also need to bring original documents that prove your identity, age, and Social Security number. Connecticut requires one document from each of these categories:

  • Proof of identity and age: a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or state ID from another state.
  • Proof of Social Security number: your Social Security card, a tax return, or a W-2 form with your full SSN visible.
  • Proof of Connecticut residency: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address.

Bring the originals, not copies. The DMV staff will examine them to confirm they're genuine. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued (through marriage, divorce, or legal name change), bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filling Out the Form

The most common error is using a nickname or informal version of your name instead of your legal name. If your birth certificate says "Robert" but you go by "Bob," write "Robert" on the form. Mismatches between your form and your documents will delay your process.

Another frequent mistake is leaving sections blank. Every line on Form DL 259 must be completed. If a question doesn't explore to you (for example, you've never had a license suspended), write "N/A" or "none" rather than leaving it empty. This tells the DMV you read the question and answered it deliberately.

Don't sign the form before you arrive at the DMV. Connecticut law requires that you sign the form in the presence of a DMV employee. If you sign it at home, the DMV will ask you to sign it again in front of them, which wastes time. Bring the form unsigned and ready to sign when you're called to the counter.

Finally, don't assume you know your Social Security number from memory. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your SSN. Errors in this nine-digit number can cause serious problems with your permit and future license.

What Happens After You Submit the Form

Once you hand the completed form and your documents to the DMV employee, they will review everything for accuracy and completeness. If something is missing or incorrect, they'll tell you right away and give you a chance to fix it. If everything is in order, you'll move to the next step: the written test.

You'll take Connecticut's learner's permit written test on a computer at the DMV office. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You need to score at least 80 percent to pass. If you pass, the DMV will take your photo and issue your learner's permit the same day. If you don't pass, you can retake the test, but you'll need to pay the test fee again.

Your learner's permit is valid for two years from the date it's issued. During this time, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 20 years old and sitting in the front passenger seat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fill out Form DL 259 online and submit it before going to the DMV?

No. Connecticut requires you to bring the completed form to the DMV office in person. You can read and print the form to fill it out at home, but you must sign it in front of a DMV employee. You cannot submit it electronically or by mail.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You must have a Social Security number to get a Connecticut learner's permit. If you don't have one, you'll need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can explore for a permit. Bring your SSN documentation to the DMV.

Do I need to bring the original Form DL 259, or can I print a copy?

You can print a copy. The DMV doesn't require the official form to be printed on special paper. read it from the Connecticut DMV website, print it on regular paper, fill it out by hand or on your computer, and bring it with you. Make sure the form is legible and complete.

What if I made a mistake on the form after I signed it at the DMV?

Tell the DMV employee when ready. They can provide you with a new blank form to fill out correctly. Don't try to cross out or white-out errors on a form you've already signed — the DMV will reject it and ask you to start over.

Is Form DL 259 the same form I use to renew my learner's permit?

No. If your learner's permit expires and you want to renew it, you'll use a different form. Form DL 259 is specifically for first-time learner's permit applications. Contact the Connecticut DMV or check their website for the renewal form if your permit is about to expire.