Connecticut DMV address changes happen online, by mail, or in person

The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles lets you change your driver's license address without getting a new license. You have three routes: the fastest is the online portal if you have a valid email and your current license number; by mail takes about two weeks; in person at a DMV office takes one visit but requires time in line. Connecticut does not charge a fee for an address change on your license alone.

You must report your new address within a certain timeframe — Connecticut law requires you to notify the DMV of a move, though the exact important date varies depending on whether you moved within the state or from out of state. The sooner you report it, the sooner your records match your actual residence, which matters if you get pulled over or need to renew.

Key Takeaways

  • The Connecticut DMV online portal is the fastest way to change your address if you have your license number and a valid email address.
  • Mailing a form to the DMV takes about two weeks and requires you to fill out the correct form and include a copy of your license.
  • You can walk into any Connecticut DMV office with your license and proof of your new address to change it in person the same day.
  • Connecticut does not charge a fee to change your address on an existing license, only when you renew or replace the license itself.

Changing your address online through the Connecticut DMV portal

The Connecticut DMV website has an online address change tool that works if your license is valid and not suspended. Go to ct.gov/dmv, find the address change option under "Online Services," and log in or create an account. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to verify your identity.

Once you log in, enter your new address exactly as it appears on mail you receive at that location. The system will confirm the change when ready, and you should receive an email confirmation. Your license itself does not change — the address update goes into the DMV database, and your next renewal will print the new address. If you need proof of the address change before your renewal, you can print the confirmation email or request an official record from the DMV.

Mailing an address change form to the Connecticut DMV

If you do not want to go online or in person, you can mail Form DL-43 (process for Duplicate License or Address Change) to the Connecticut DMV. read the form from ct.gov/dmv or call the DMV to request it by mail. Fill in your name, license number, and new address, then include a copy of your driver's license (front and back) and a piece of mail showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works.

Mail the completed form and copies to the address listed on the form. Processing takes about two weeks from the date the DMV receives it. Keep a copy for your records. If you do not hear back within three weeks, call the DMV to confirm they received your submission, because mail can be delayed or lost.

Changing your address in person at a Connecticut DMV office

You can visit any Connecticut DMV office with your current driver's license and proof of your new address. Bring an original or certified copy of a document showing your new address — utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, and bank statements all work if they are dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency (tax notice, voter registration card) also counts.

Walk up to the counter, tell the clerk you need an address change, and hand over your license and proof of address. The change is recorded on the spot, and you walk out with your license updated in the system. Your physical license card does not change until your next renewal, but your DMV record is current when ready. In-person visits are fastest if you are already near an office, but wait times vary by location and time of day — early morning and weekday afternoons tend to be less busy.

What counts as proof of your new address in Connecticut

The Connecticut DMV accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. Utility bills (electric, gas, water, internet), lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax bills, and bank or credit card statements all work. Government mail counts too — voter registration cards, tax notices, and court documents with your address.

The document must be an original or certified copy, not a photo or printout you made yourself. If your name on the document does not match your license exactly (for example, your license says "Robert" but your utility bill says "Bob"), bring a second document that shows both versions, or bring a marriage certificate or legal name change document that explains the difference. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, call the DMV to ask about alternatives — some offices can work with you on this.

Timeline and what happens after you change your address

Online changes take effect when ready. Mail takes about two weeks. In-person changes happen the same day. Your physical license card does not get reprinted with the new address until your next renewal — usually every eight years for adults — but your DMV record updates right away. If a police officer runs your license, they will see your current address in the system.

You do not need to carry proof of the address change with you. If you are stopped and the officer's system shows an old address, explain that you recently moved and provide your current address verbally. The officer can verify the change in the DMV database. If you need an official record of the change before your renewal (for a job, housing, or legal reason), you can request a certified copy of your DMV record from the DMV office or online.

Changing your address if you moved from another state

If you moved to Connecticut from out of state and have a valid out-of-state license, you can change the address in the DMV system, but Connecticut law eventually requires you to get a Connecticut license. You have a grace period — usually 30 days from your move — before you must exchange your old license for a Connecticut one. During that grace period, you can change the address on your out-of-state license through the Connecticut DMV using the same methods (online, mail, or in person).

After the grace period ends, you will need to explore for a Connecticut license, which involves a new process, a vision test, and a new photo. The address change alone does not satisfy this requirement. If you wait past the grace period and get stopped, you may face a fine for driving with an out-of-state license after becoming a Connecticut resident. Contact the DMV or check ct.gov/dmv for the exact important date that applies to your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to change my address with the DMV if I move?

Connecticut law requires you to notify the DMV of a change of address, though the exact timeline depends on your situation. Reporting it promptly keeps your records current and avoids problems if you are pulled over or need to renew your license. There is no fee to change your address.

Can I change my address online if my license is expired?

No, the online portal only works if your license is valid and not suspended. If your license is expired, you can mail the form or go in person with your expired license and proof of your new address. You may also need to renew your license at the same time.

What if my proof of address is not in my name?

The document must show your name and your new address. If it does not match your license name exactly, bring a second document that explains the difference — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or legal name change order. Call the DMV ahead of time if you are unsure whether your documents will work.

How long does it take to get a new license card with my new address printed on it?

Your physical license card does not get reprinted until your next renewal, which is usually every eight years for adults. The address change updates your DMV record when ready, so officers and the DMV can see your current address even though your card still shows the old one.

Can I change my address by phone?

No, the Connecticut DMV does not process address changes over the phone. You can call to ask questions or request a form by mail, but you must submit the change online, by mail, or in person.