Renewing your Connecticut driver's license in person or by mail

Connecticut lets you renew your driver's license either in person at a DMV office or by mail, depending on your situation. If you're renewing a standard license that hasn't expired yet or is less than six months expired, you can use the mail option. If your license is more than six months expired, you must renew in person at a DMV office. You'll need to bring specific documents and pay the renewal fee — currently $127 for a six-year license or $72 for a four-year license.

The process takes different amounts of time depending on which method you choose. Mail renewals typically take two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your process. In-person renewals are usually completed the same day, though wait times at DMV offices vary by location and time of day.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew by mail if your license hasn't expired or expired less than six months ago; licenses expired more than six months require an in-person visit.
  • Mail renewal costs $127 for a six-year license or $72 for a four-year license and takes two to three weeks.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office requires proof of residency, your current license, and payment, and is usually completed the same day.
  • Connecticut DMV offices are located in Wethersfield, Norwalk, Waterbury, and New Britain, and you can check wait times online before you go.

Renewing by mail: documents and steps

To renew by mail, start by getting the process form. read form DL 43 from the Connecticut DMV website (ct.gov/dmv) or request it by phone at 860-263-5700. Fill out the form completely, including your name, address, date of birth, and signature. You must sign the form in blue or black ink — the DMV will reject unsigned applications.

Next, gather your documents. You'll need your current Connecticut driver's license and proof of your current address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If your address on your license is outdated, include a document showing your new address.

Mail the completed form, your current license, proof of address, and a check or money order for the renewal fee to: Connecticut DMV, 60 State Street, Wethersfield, CT 06161. Do not send cash. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope if you want your old license returned. The DMV will mail your new license to the address on your process within two to three weeks of receiving your packet.

Renewing in person at a DMV office

If your license expired more than six months ago, you must renew in person. Connecticut has four full-service DMV offices: Wethersfield (60 State Street), Norwalk (440 Main Avenue), Waterbury (100 Grand Street), and New Britain (103 Court Street). Before you go, check the wait time for your chosen office on the DMV website — most offices post current wait times that update throughout the day.

Bring your current license, proof of your current address (same documents accepted for mail renewal), and payment. You can pay by cash, check, money order, or debit card at the office — credit cards are not accepted. If you've changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document proving the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

When you arrive, take a number from the ticket machine and wait to be called. The DMV will verify your documents, take a new photo, and process your renewal. You'll receive your new license on the spot. The entire process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is.

What to do if your license is suspended or revoked

If your Connecticut license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it through the standard process. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the DMV. Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or medical conditions reported to the DMV.

Contact the DMV at 860-263-5700 to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take. You may need to pay outstanding fines, provide medical documentation, or complete a hearing. Once the suspension is lifted, you can proceed with renewal using either the mail or in-person method.

Renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL)

Commercial driver's licenses cannot be renewed by mail — you must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your current CDL, proof of address, and payment. You'll also need to pass a vision test and medical examination. Connecticut requires CDL holders to have a valid medical certificate from a certified medical examiner, which you may need to obtain separately before your renewal appointment.

If your CDL is expired, you cannot legally operate a commercial vehicle. Schedule your in-person renewal as soon as possible. The DMV recommends calling ahead to make an appointment if you're renewing a CDL, as the process takes longer than a standard license renewal.

Replacing a lost or stolen license before renewal

If your license is lost or stolen and not yet due for renewal, you'll need to get a replacement first. You can replace a lost or stolen license by mail or in person using the same documents required for renewal. The replacement fee is $20. Once you receive your replacement license, you can renew it on its regular schedule using the standard renewal process.

If your license is lost and also expired, you must renew in person. Bring proof of address and payment for both the replacement fee ($20) and the renewal fee ($127 or $72 depending on the license term you choose).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license online?

No, Connecticut does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail or in person at a DMV office. The mail option is the closest to online renewal and takes two to three weeks.

What happens if I drive with an expired license?

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Connecticut. If you're stopped by police, you can face a fine and your vehicle may be impounded. Renew your license before it expires to avoid these consequences.

How long is a Connecticut driver's license valid?

Connecticut driver's licenses are valid for either four or six years, depending on which term you choose when you renew. The six-year license costs $127 and the four-year license costs $72. Your renewal notice will tell you when your current license expires.

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

Appointments are not required for standard license renewals, but the DMV recommends them for CDL renewals. You can walk in during business hours, though wait times vary. Check the DMV website for current wait times before you visit.

What if I moved out of state after getting my Connecticut license?

If you no longer live in Connecticut, you should get a driver's license from your new state instead of renewing your Connecticut license. Contact your new state's DMV for their renewal process.