Where to book your Real ID appointment in Connecticut

Connecticut's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles Real ID appointments through their online booking system at ct.gov/dmv. You can also call the DMV directly at 860-263-5700 to schedule by phone, or visit a DMV office in person to book your appointment at the counter.

The online system is usually the fastest route — you can see available dates and times when ready and confirm your appointment without waiting on hold. If you prefer to speak with someone, the phone line operates during regular DMV business hours, which vary by location. Walk-in appointments are also accepted at most Connecticut DMV offices, though wait times can be longer during peak hours.

Real ID appointments are separate from standard license renewals, so you cannot book a regular renewal and convert it to Real ID on the day of your visit. You must book specifically for a Real ID appointment to may support the office has the right documents ready and allocates enough time for your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • Book your Real ID appointment online at ct.gov/dmv, by phone at 860-263-5700, or in person at any Connecticut DMV office.
  • The online booking system shows available dates and times when ready and is usually faster than calling or walking in.
  • You must bring the documents listed on the DMV website for your specific situation — typically a birth certificate, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
  • Real ID appointments are separate from standard license renewals and cannot be changed to a different appointment type on the day of your visit.
  • Connecticut DMV offices have different hours depending on location, so check the office nearest you before calling or visiting.

What documents to bring to your Real ID appointment

Connecticut requires four categories of documents for a Real ID appointment: proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of citizenship or legal residency status. The specific documents that satisfy each category depend on your situation, and the DMV website lists all acceptable options for each.

For proof of identity, you can bring a current passport, passport card, military ID, or your existing Connecticut driver's license. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return. For citizenship or legal residency, bring your U.S. birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If any document is not in English, bring an official translation along with the original. The DMV will not accept documents that are expired, even if they are otherwise valid proof of the information they contain.

How to prepare before your appointment

Gather all required documents at least one week before your appointment and check them against the DMV's current list on ct.gov/dmv. Document requirements can change, and checking in advance prevents you from arriving unprepared and having to reschedule.

Bring your current Connecticut driver's license or ID card if you have one, even if it is expired. Bring any legal name change documents if your name differs from what appears on your birth certificate or other identity documents — marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or court orders. If you are explore for a REAL ID for the first time, bring proof that you have not already obtained one in another state.

Arrive at least 10 minutes early. Bring a pen in case you need to fill out forms by hand, though the DMV increasingly uses digital check-in. Have your phone number and email address ready — the DMV may send appointment reminders or follow-up information to these contacts.

What happens during your Real ID appointment

The DMV staff will verify your documents, take a new photo, and collect your signature. The entire appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is and whether your documents are in order. If any document is missing or does not meet requirements, the staff will tell you what is needed and may offer to reschedule you rather than process an incomplete process.

You will be asked to verify your address and confirm your Social Security number. The DMV will run a background check to confirm you have no disqualifying criminal convictions or outstanding warrants. If everything clears, you will pay the fee — currently $36 for a standard Real ID driver's license or $18 for a Real ID ID card, though these amounts can change.

Your new Real ID will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at your appointment that you can use for identification until the card arrives. If you need to travel before your card arrives, bring both the temporary license and your appointment confirmation.

If you cannot make your appointment

Cancel or reschedule through the same system where you booked — online at ct.gov/dmv, by phone at 860-263-5700, or in person at a DMV office. Canceling in advance frees up the time slot for someone else and prevents a no-show on your record.

If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may be charged a no-show fee or have to wait longer to book your next appointment. The DMV's policy on no-shows can change, so contact them directly if you have already missed an appointment and want to reschedule.

Real ID vs. standard Connecticut driver's license

A Real ID is a driver's license or ID card that meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. It has a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used for domestic air travel, entry to federal buildings, and access to military bases. A standard Connecticut driver's license does not have this star and cannot be used for these purposes as of May 2025.

If you do not plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings, you do not need a Real ID — a standard license is still valid for driving and most other identification purposes. However, if you currently have a standard license and want to upgrade to Real ID, you must book a Real ID appointment rather than renewing your standard license.

Connecticut DMV office locations and hours

Connecticut operates DMV offices in Wethersfield, Norwalk, Waterbury, and New Britain. Each office has different hours — some are open Monday through Friday only, while others have limited Saturday hours. Check ct.gov/dmv or call 860-263-5700 to confirm the hours of the office nearest you before you visit or call to book an appointment.

The Wethersfield office is the largest and typically has the most appointment availability. If your nearest office is fully booked, you may be able to find an earlier appointment at a different location. Some offices are busier during certain times of day or days of the week — calling ahead can help you find the shortest wait time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book a Real ID appointment online if I do not have a Connecticut driver's license yet?

Yes. The online system allows you to book a Real ID appointment whether you are renewing an existing license, upgrading from a standard license to Real ID, or obtaining your first Connecticut license. Select the option that matches your situation when you start the booking process.

What if I do not have all my documents when I book my appointment?

Book the appointment anyway and gather the missing documents before your appointment date. If you arrive without required documents, the DMV will not process your process and you will need to reschedule. It is better to book early and have time to collect what you need than to wait and risk losing your appointment slot.

How long does it take to get my Real ID card after my appointment?

Connecticut mails Real ID cards within 7 to 10 business days of your appointment. You will receive a temporary paper license at your appointment that is valid for identification until your card arrives. If you need to travel before the card arrives, bring both the temporary license and your appointment confirmation.

Can I renew my Real ID by mail or online instead of going to an office?

Connecticut does not offer mail-in or online renewal for Real ID. You must visit a DMV office in person for your initial Real ID appointment. Once you have a Real ID card, you may be able to renew it by mail in future years — check ct.gov/dmv for current renewal options.

What if my appointment is cancelled by the DMV?

The DMV occasionally cancels appointments due to office closures or staffing issues. If your appointment is cancelled, you will be notified by phone or email at the contact information you provided when you booked. You can when ready rebook through the same system or call 860-263-5700 to find another available time.