Where to renew your Connecticut license and what you'll need

Connecticut lets you renew your driver's license in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online depending on your situation. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting an office, which takes a few minutes instead of hours. You'll need your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address — the specific documents depend on which method you choose.

Your license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. Connecticut sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you don't have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut offers online renewal through the DMV website for most drivers, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $145 for an eight-year license.
  • Mail renewal is available if you don't have a REAL ID and don't need to change your address, photo, or signature, and takes two to three weeks.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office is required only if you need a REAL ID, have changed your name, or are renewing after a suspension or medical hold.
  • You must bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement).
  • Connecticut does not mail your new license automatically — you pick it up at the DMV office or it arrives by mail depending on which renewal method you used.

Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option and available to most drivers. Go to ct.gov/dmv, click "Renew Your License," and log in with your license number and date of birth. You'll answer questions about your current address, medical history, and whether you want to donate organs. The system will ask you to upload a photo — you can use a recent selfie or photo from your phone, and the DMV will accept it as long as your face is clearly visible and centered.

The fee is $145 for an eight-year license, paid by debit or credit card during the online process. After you submit, the DMV will mail your new license to the address you provided. Delivery typically takes one to two weeks. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

Online renewal is not available if you need a REAL ID (required for federal buildings and domestic flights), if you've changed your name since your last license, or if your license was suspended or revoked. It's also not available if you're over 65 and renewing for the first time in eight years — you'll need to renew in person.

Mail renewal if you don't need a REAL ID

If you don't need a REAL ID and your address, name, and signature haven't changed, you can renew by mail. Request a renewal form from the DMV by calling 860-263-8354, or read it from ct.gov/dmv. Fill out the form, include a copy of your current license (front and back), and mail it to the address listed on the form with a check or money order for $145.

Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to you. This method works only if you're not changing anything on your license — if you need to update your address, you must renew online or in person.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

You'll need to visit a DMV office if you want a REAL ID, if you've changed your name, if your license was suspended or revoked, or if you're over 65 renewing for the first time. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The DMV will take a new photo and ask you to sign. The fee is $145 for an eight-year REAL ID or standard license.

Connecticut has DMV offices in Wethersfield, Danbury, Norwalk, New Haven, Waterbury, and Willimantic. You can book an appointment online at ct.gov/dmv or call 860-263-8354. Walk-ins are accepted but expect longer waits, especially on Thursdays and Fridays. Most appointments take 15 to 30 minutes.

After you complete your visit, the DMV will mail your new license to the address you provided. It typically arrives within one to two weeks. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

What documents count as proof of Social Security number and address

For proof of your Social Security number, the DMV accepts your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your full Social Security number. A birth certificate does not count. If you don't have any of these, call the DMV at 860-263-8354 to ask about alternatives.

For proof of your current address, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (like a tax notice or jury summons) dated within the last 60 days. The name on the document must match the name on your license. A credit card bill does not count. If you've recently moved and don't have a document yet, call the DMV to discuss your options.

Getting a REAL ID in Connecticut

A REAL ID is a federal standard required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. Connecticut's REAL ID looks like a standard license but has a gold star in the upper right corner. You can get one only by renewing in person at a DMV office.

To get a REAL ID, bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of citizenship or legal residency. Proof of citizenship can be a U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card. The fee is $145 for an eight-year REAL ID. The DMV will mail it to you within one to two weeks.

What to do if your license is expired or about to expire

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it using any of the three methods — online, by mail, or in person. Connecticut does not charge a penalty for renewing an expired license. However, you cannot legally drive on an expired license, so renew as soon as possible.

If your license expires while your renewal is in progress, you can still drive legally as long as you have proof that you've started the renewal process. Keep your renewal confirmation email or receipt. If you're stopped by police, show them your current license and your renewal confirmation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license if I moved out of state?

No. You must have a current Connecticut address to renew a Connecticut license. If you've moved to another state, you need to get a license from that state instead. Contact your new state's DMV for their renewal process.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew online or by mail if you don't have your current license. You'll need to visit a DMV office in person and request a replacement license. Bring proof of your Social Security number and address. The fee is $145.

How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore online?

The DMV mails your new license within one to two weeks of your online submission. Delivery by mail typically takes three to five business days after it ships, so plan for one to three weeks total. You can drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person at a DMV office?

Appointments are not required but are strongly recommended. You can book one online at ct.gov/dmv or by calling 860-263-8354. Walk-ins are accepted but waits can be one to two hours, especially on weekday afternoons and Fridays.

What if I want to change my photo but don't need a REAL ID?

You can change your photo only by renewing in person at a DMV office. Online and mail renewal use your current photo. If you want a new photo but don't need a REAL ID, visit any DMV office with your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address.