What you need to do to get a replacement license in Connecticut

To replace a lost driver's license in Connecticut, you visit the DMV in person with proof of identity and residency, pay the replacement fee, and have your photo taken. Connecticut does not offer online or mail-in replacement for a lost license — you must appear at a DMV office. 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 and expiration date as your original, so you do not lose time on your license validity. If your license was also damaged (torn, faded, or unreadable), the replacement process is identical.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Connecticut DMV office in person with a valid photo ID and proof of your current address to replace a lost license.
  • The replacement fee is $36 for a standard license or $72 for a REAL ID-compliant license, and you pay at the time of your visit.
  • Your new license will keep the same license number and expiration date as your lost license.
  • Connecticut DMV offices accept walk-ins, but you can also schedule an appointment online to reduce wait time.
  • If your license was suspended or had restrictions, those will appear on your replacement license.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring one valid photo ID — a passport, passport card, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. You also need one document showing your current Connecticut address: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A government check or tax return also counts.

If you do not have a document with your current address, you can bring a notarized affidavit of residency instead. The DMV office can tell you where to find a notary, or you can use a bank, attorney, or title company. This adds time and cost to your visit, so gathering an address document beforehand is faster.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You will need it to complete the process form.

Connecticut DMV office locations and how to schedule

Connecticut has DMV offices in Wethersfield (headquarters), Danbury, Hamden, Waterbury, and Norwich. You can walk in during business hours at any location, but appointment slots fill quickly during peak times. To schedule an appointment, visit the Connecticut DMV website and select your preferred office and date. Appointments are free and typically available within a few days.

Walk-in wait times are longest on Mondays, Tuesdays, and between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on any weekday. If you cannot schedule an appointment or prefer to walk in, arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon usually means a shorter wait.

Replacement fees and what you pay

A standard replacement driver's license costs $36. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license instead, the fee is $72. REAL ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and are required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting in 2025, though Connecticut has extended the important date multiple times. You pay the fee in cash, debit card, or credit card at the DMV office when you submit your process.

If you are replacing a license that was damaged rather than lost, the fee is the same. There is no discount for a replacement versus a new license.

What happens if your license was suspended or had restrictions

If your lost license had a suspension, restriction, or special condition (such as corrective lenses required or ignition interlock device), that status carries over to your replacement license. The DMV does not clear suspensions or restrictions when you replace a lost license — you must resolve the underlying issue separately.

For example, if your license was suspended for unpaid traffic fines, you must pay those fines before the DMV will issue a replacement. If it was suspended for a DUI conviction, you must complete the required alcohol education program and waiting period. Contact the Connecticut DMV or the court that issued the suspension to find out what you need to do before you visit the office.

Temporary license options while you wait

Connecticut does not issue a temporary paper license or permit while you wait for your replacement. Your replacement license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after your DMV visit. Until it arrives, you have no valid license to show if stopped by police.

If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, ask the DMV office for a letter stating that you have applied for a replacement. Some police officers will accept this as proof that you are in the process of replacing your license, though it is not a legal substitute. Keep the letter with you if you drive.

Insurance and driving without your replacement license

Your auto insurance policy remains active even though your physical license is lost. You do not need to notify your insurance company that you lost your license. However, if you are stopped by police and cannot produce a valid license, you may be cited for driving without a license in your possession, even though your policy is current.

If you are in an accident before your replacement arrives, your insurance will still cover the claim. Bring the DMV letter or your receipt from your replacement visit to the insurance company to prove you were in the process of replacing your license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Connecticut requires you to appear in person at the DMV to have your photo taken for your replacement license. You cannot send someone else to pick up a license you already have on file, and you cannot have someone else explore on your behalf.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You still must visit a Connecticut DMV office to replace it. You cannot replace a Connecticut license at an out-of-state DMV. If you are traveling or living temporarily out of state, you can mail your documents to the Connecticut DMV, but you will still need to visit an office in person eventually to have your photo taken before your replacement is issued.

Do I need to report my lost license to the police?

No. Connecticut does not require you to file a police report for a lost driver's license. However, if you believe your license was stolen and you are concerned about identity theft, you can file a report with local police and place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

Will my replacement license have a different number?

No. Your replacement license will have the same license number as your lost license. The number does not change when you replace a lost or damaged license.

How long does it take to get my replacement after my DMV visit?

Your replacement license is mailed to the address you provide at the DMV within 7 to 10 business days. You will not receive it when ready at the office. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the Connecticut DMV to check the status.