How to Renew Your Connecticut Driver's License

Connecticut driver's license renewal: the basic path

You can renew your Connecticut driver's license in person at a DMV office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Connecticut DMV portal. Most people renew by mail or online because it takes less time than an office visit. The process depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you need a new photo, and how long you want the renewal to last.

Connecticut issues licenses valid for either six or eight years. If you're under 65, you can choose the eight-year term. If you're 65 or older, your license is valid for six years. You'll need to decide which term you want before you start the renewal process, because the fee changes based on your choice.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website is the fastest option if your license is still valid and you don't need a new photo.
Mail renewal requires mailing your current license to the DMV along with the renewal form and payment, and takes about two to three weeks.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is necessary if your license has expired for more than five years, if you need a new photo, or if you're changing your name or address.
The renewal fee is $72 for an eight-year license or $54 for a six-year license if you renew in person or by mail; online renewal costs $67 for eight years or $50 for six years.
You must renew before your license expires, or you'll face a late fee and may need to take a written test again.

Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website

Online renewal is available if your current license is valid (not expired), you don't need a new photo, and you haven't changed your name or address since your last renewal. Go to the Connecticut DMV website and select "Renew Your License Online." You'll need your current license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit card or credit card).

The online system will ask you to confirm your personal information, choose your license term (six or eight years), and pay the renewal fee. Once you complete the transaction, the DMV will mail your new license to the address on file. Online renewal typically takes one to two weeks from the time you submit your process. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

Mail renewal: what to send and how long it takes

To renew by mail, read the process for Driver License Renewal form (Form DL 43) from the Connecticut DMV website or pick one up at any DMV office. Fill out the form completely, including your current license number, your chosen license term, and your signature. Mail the completed form along with your current driver's license and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form.

The DMV processes mail renewals in the order they arrive. You should expect to receive your new license within two to three weeks of mailing your process. During this time, you can continue to drive using your current license. If you don't receive your new license within four weeks, contact the DMV to confirm they received your process.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need a new photo, if you're changing your name or address, or if you want to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant license. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

If you're changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Visit the Connecticut DMV website to find the office nearest you and check their hours. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to schedule an appointment online. In-person renewal usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you'll receive a temporary license to drive home with while your permanent license is mailed to you.

What happens if your license has already expired

If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can still renew by mail or online using the same process as a valid license. However, you cannot drive legally until your new license arrives. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at a DMV office, and you may be required to pass a written test and an eye exam before the DMV issues your new license.

Connecticut charges a late fee if you renew after your license expires. The fee is $10 for renewals up to one year late. If your license has been expired for more than one year, contact the DMV directly to find out what steps you need to take, because the renewal process may be different.

REAL ID compliance and what it means for renewal

Connecticut driver's licenses are REAL ID-compliant by default, which means they meet federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. Your current license is already REAL ID-compliant if it has a gold star in the upper right corner. When you renew, your new license will also be REAL ID-compliant unless you specifically request a non-compliant license.

If you're renewing in person and want to confirm your license will be REAL ID-compliant, tell the DMV staff member when you arrive. If you're renewing by mail or online, your new license will automatically be REAL ID-compliant. No additional documents or fees are required for REAL ID compliance during renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. You can renew by mail or online as long as your license is still valid and you don't need a new photo. If you need to renew in person, you'll need to visit a Connecticut DMV office in person, which means traveling back to the state.

What if I want to change my address during renewal?

If you're renewing online or by mail, you can update your address as part of the renewal process. If you're renewing in person, bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) and the DMV will update your address while they process your renewal.

How much does Connecticut driver's license renewal cost?

The fee depends on how you renew and which license term you choose. Online renewal costs $50 for six years or $67 for eight years. In-person or mail renewal costs $54 for six years or $72 for eight years. Payments must be made by check, money order, debit card, or credit card.

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. Connecticut allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early doesn't change your expiration date — your new license will expire one year (or the term you choose) from the date you renew, not from the date your old license would have expired.

What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?

You'll need to replace your lost license first before you can renew. Contact the Connecticut DMV to report your lost license and request a replacement. Once you receive your replacement license, you can then renew it using any of the three methods (online, mail, or in person).

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.