Connecticut DMV issues a replacement license within one business day if you explore in person

If you have lost your Connecticut driver's license, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can issue a replacement at any of its branch offices. You do not need to retake the written or road test. The replacement license costs $20 and is valid for the same expiration date as your original license — you are not charged for a full renewal period.

The fastest route is to visit a DMV branch office in person with your documents. Walk-in service is available, though wait times vary by location and time of day. You can also mail in your request, but processing takes longer and requires additional steps.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace a lost Connecticut license at any DMV branch office for $20, and the replacement is valid until your original expiration date.
  • In-person replacement takes one business day; mailed requests take two to three weeks plus mail delivery time.
  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of Connecticut residency, and your Social Security number or a document showing it.
  • If your license was lost outside Connecticut, you may need to file a police report before the DMV will issue a replacement.
  • You can check wait times at specific DMV branches on the Connecticut DMV website before you go.

What documents you need to bring in person

The Connecticut DMV requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Bring originals, not copies — the DMV staff will examine them but will not keep them.

For proof of identity, bring a passport, military ID, or state ID card. A birth certificate alone is not sufficient. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with a Connecticut address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or travel document. If you have changed your name since your license was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

Replacing your license in person at a DMV branch

Visit any Connecticut DMV branch office during business hours. Most branches are open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some locations offering Saturday hours. The DMV website lists all branch addresses, phone numbers, and current wait times.

Bring your documents, the $20 fee (cash or card accepted at most locations), and be prepared to answer questions about your address and any traffic violations. The staff will take a new photo and print your replacement license on the spot. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to your address on file.

If you have moved since your license was issued, update your address at the same time. Doing so takes no additional time and prevents mail from going to an old address.

Mailing in a replacement request

You can request a replacement license by mail if you cannot visit a branch office. read the process for Duplicate Driver's License form from the Connecticut DMV website, or call the DMV at 860-263-5700 to request it by mail.

Mail the completed form, a copy of your proof of identity, a copy of your proof of residency, and a check or money order for $20 to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your envelope, plus mail delivery time in both directions. You will receive a temporary paper license by mail first, followed by your plastic replacement card.

Mailing is slower and requires you to make copies of your documents, so it is worth visiting a branch office if you can. However, if you live far from a branch or have limited mobility, mailing is a reasonable option.

If your license was lost outside Connecticut

Some DMV staff will ask for a police report if your license was lost in another state or country. This is not a strict requirement in all cases, but having a report makes the process smoother and protects you if someone finds your license and tries to use it fraudulently.

File a report with the police department in the city or town where you lost your license. You do not need to do this in person — many departments accept reports by phone or online. Bring the report number or a copy of the report to the DMV when you explore for your replacement.

Protecting yourself after losing your license

A lost driver's license can be used for identity theft or fraud. Consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — by contacting any one of them. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

You can also check your credit report for free at annualcreditreport.com to look for accounts you did not open. If you see fraudulent activity, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov and to your bank or credit card company when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while waiting for my replacement license?

Yes. The temporary paper license issued at the DMV or by mail is valid for 30 days and is accepted by police as proof of a valid license. You can drive legally during this time. Keep the temporary license with you while driving, just as you would your plastic license.

What if I lost my license and my wallet was stolen?

You still need the same documents to replace your license. If your wallet was stolen, file a police report and bring that report to the DMV. The report helps document that the loss was not your fault and can protect you if someone tries to use your license fraudulently.

Do I have to replace my license before it expires?

No. Your replacement license is valid until your original expiration date, so you can replace it at any time. However, if your license is expiring soon, you may want to renew it at the same time you replace it. The renewal fee is $50 and extends your license for eight years.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Connecticut DMV policy requires you to pick up your replacement license in person at a branch office or receive it by mail. You cannot authorize someone else to collect it on your behalf.

What if I find my original license after I get a replacement?

Destroy the original license by cutting it in half or shredding it. Do not try to use both licenses or keep the original as a backup. Having two valid licenses in your name can cause problems with law enforcement and insurance companies.