Get a replacement license by visiting the DMV in person with proof of identity and residency

Connecticut requires you to replace a lost driver's license in person at a DMV office. You cannot do this by mail or online. You will need to bring a valid form of identification, proof that you live in Connecticut, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 30 minutes on average, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Your replacement license will have the same number as your original license. Connecticut does not issue a temporary paper license while you wait, so plan to visit the DMV before you need to drive.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Connecticut DMV office in person with a valid ID and proof of Connecticut residency to replace a lost license.
  • The replacement fee is $72 for a standard license and $92 for a Real ID-compliant license, and you can pay by cash, check, or card.
  • Bring one primary ID (passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate) and one proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).
  • Connecticut does not issue temporary licenses, so you will not be able to drive legally until your replacement arrives in the mail, typically within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you suspect your license was stolen rather than lost, you can report it to the DMV during your replacement visit, and they will flag it in their system.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Connecticut requires one primary form of identification and one proof of residency. Your primary ID must be valid and show your name and date of birth. Acceptable primary IDs include a U.S. passport, military ID, certified birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. If you do not have any of these, you can use a combination of secondary documents — the DMV website lists which combinations work.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current Connecticut address. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or insurance policy all work. If you live with someone else and the document is in their name, bring a signed letter from them confirming you live there, plus the document itself.

Bring your Social Security number or a document that shows it. If you were born outside the United States, bring your immigration documents or a green card.

Where to go and how to schedule your visit

Connecticut has six full-service DMV offices: in Wethersfield, Waterbury, Norwalk, Danbury, New Haven, and Willimantic. You do not need an appointment — you can walk in during business hours. However, the DMV strongly recommends scheduling online at ct.gov/dmv to reduce your wait time. You can book a time slot up to 30 days in advance.

Office hours vary by location. Most are open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some locations offering extended hours on certain days. Check the DMV website for the specific hours of the office nearest you before you go.

If you cannot reach a full-service office, some municipal agents in smaller towns can process license replacements, though not all services are available at every agent location. Call ahead to confirm that your local agent handles replacements.

The replacement fee and payment methods

A standard driver's license replacement costs $72. If you want a Real ID-compliant license instead, the fee is $92. Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and meet federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. You do not have to upgrade to Real ID when you replace your license — a standard replacement is valid for driving in Connecticut.

The DMV accepts cash, checks, and credit or debit cards. If you pay by check, make it out to the State of Connecticut. Some offices have ATMs on site if you need cash.

When your new license will arrive

After you complete your replacement visit, the DMV will mail your new license to the address on file. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. During this time, you do not have a valid license to drive. Connecticut does not issue temporary paper licenses or digital licenses you can display on your phone.

If your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DMV to report it. They can check the status of your replacement and reissue if needed. Keep the receipt you receive at your visit — it shows you have applied for a replacement and can help if there is a delay.

If your license was stolen, not just lost

Tell the DMV staff during your replacement visit if you believe your license was stolen rather than lost. They will place a flag in their system that may help prevent someone else from using your license number fraudulently. This does not change the replacement process or fee, but it creates a record.

If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

What to do if you need to drive before your replacement arrives

Connecticut does not issue temporary licenses, so you cannot legally drive while waiting for your replacement. If you need to drive when ready, your options are limited. Some people ask a family member or friend to drive them, or they use a ride-sharing service or taxi. If you are stopped by police without a valid license, you can show the receipt from your DMV visit, but this does not may provide you will not be cited.

If you have an out-of-state license that is still valid, you can use that to drive in Connecticut while you wait for your replacement. However, Connecticut residents are required to have a Connecticut license, so this is only a temporary solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?

Connecticut will not issue a replacement license if you have an outstanding suspension related to unpaid fines or tickets. The DMV will tell you if this applies to you when you visit. You must resolve the suspension first, usually by paying the fine or appearing in court. Contact the court that issued the ticket for details on how to clear the suspension.

What if my name has changed since my original license was issued?

Bring a document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will update your name during the replacement process at no extra cost. Your new license will reflect your current legal name.

Do I need to pass a vision test or written test to replace a lost license?

No. A replacement for a lost or stolen license does not require a written test or road test. You will take a vision screening at the DMV office, but this is quick and part of the standard replacement process. If you fail the vision screening, the DMV will discuss options with you.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Connecticut requires you to pick up your replacement license in person at the DMV office where you applied. The DMV will not mail it to you or release it to another person. You must return to the office to collect it once it is ready, which the DMV will notify you about by mail.

What if I lost my license while traveling outside Connecticut?

You will need to return to Connecticut to replace it in person. You cannot do this at a DMV office in another state. If you are stranded and need to drive, contact the Connecticut DMV to discuss your situation — they may be able to issue a temporary document in rare cases, though this is not standard practice.