Connecticut driver's licenses expire every eight years, and you can renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation

Connecticut's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) lets you renew your license before it expires, and the method you choose depends on whether you need a new photo and how quickly you need the new card. Most people renew online through the DMV website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $72 for an eight-year license. If you can't renew online — because your license is already expired, you need a corrected name, or you're changing your address — you'll need to visit a DMV office or use mail-in renewal.

Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license. 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

  • Online renewal through the Connecticut DMV website works only if your license is current, your name hasn't changed, and you don't need a new photo.
  • Mail-in renewal takes about two to three weeks and requires you to send in your current license, a completed form, and payment.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office is necessary if your license is expired, you need a corrected name, or you're changing your address.
  • Connecticut licenses are valid for eight years, and you can begin the renewal process up to one year before expiration.
  • The renewal fee is $72 for a standard eight-year license, and payment methods vary by renewal method.

Online renewal through the DMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. Go to the Connecticut DMV website, select "Renew Your Driver License," and log in with your license number and date of birth. You'll answer questions about your current address, any name changes, and whether your information is still accurate. The system will ask whether you want to keep your current photo or get a new one; if you keep the old photo, the renewal is final and you won't need to visit an office.

Online renewal costs $72 and you can pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. After you submit, the DMV mails your new license to the address on file, which typically takes 10 to 15 business days. You'll receive a confirmation number when ready, and you can use that number to check the status of your renewal on the DMV website.

You cannot renew online if your current license is expired, if you've changed your name since your last license was issued, if you need a corrected address, or if you want a new photo. In those cases, you'll need to renew by mail or in person.

Mail-in renewal for current licenses

Mail-in renewal works if your license is still valid and you don't need a new photo or name correction. read or request the "process for Driver License or Permit" (Form DL 43) from the Connecticut DMV website. Fill out the form, sign it, and mail it along with your current license and a check or money order for $72 to the address listed on the form.

The DMV processes mail-in renewals in about two to three weeks. You'll receive your new license by mail at the address you provided on the form. Keep your confirmation receipt until the new license arrives. If you don't receive your renewed license within four weeks, contact the DMV to check the status.

Mail-in renewal is useful if you have a busy schedule or live far from a DMV office, but it takes longer than online renewal and you cannot track the exact status of your process the way you can online.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

Visit a DMV office if your license is expired, you need a name correction, you're changing your address, or you want a new photo. Bring your current license (or expired license if it's been less than five years since expiration), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Acceptable address documents include a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

If your name has changed since your last license, bring a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV office will take a new photo, process your renewal on the spot, and issue a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to you.

Connecticut has DMV offices in multiple locations across the state. You can find the nearest office and check hours on the DMV website. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require you to schedule an appointment online. Check your local office's policy before visiting.

What to bring and how to prepare

For any renewal method, have your current license number and date of birth ready. If renewing online, you'll need these details to log in. For mail-in or in-person renewal, bring your actual license card.

If you're renewing in person, bring proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form) and proof of your current address. If your name has changed, bring the document that proves it. If you've moved, bring a recent utility bill or lease in your new name and address.

The renewal fee is $72 for an eight-year license. Online and mail-in renewals accept credit cards, debit cards, or checks. In-person offices accept cash, checks, and cards — call ahead to confirm payment methods at your specific location.

After your renewal is processed

If you renewed online or by mail, your new license will arrive by mail within 10 to 15 business days (online) or two to three weeks (mail). If you renewed in person, you'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days, and your permanent license will arrive by mail shortly after.

Your old license is no longer valid once your new one arrives. You can destroy it or keep it for your records. If your new license doesn't arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the Connecticut DMV with your confirmation number to check the status.

If you need to drive before your new license arrives and you renewed in person, use the temporary paper license. If you renewed online or by mail and need to drive when ready, you may need to visit a DMV office to request a temporary license or expedited processing, though expedited options may have additional fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license if it's already expired?

No, you cannot renew online or by mail if your license is expired. You must visit a DMV office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The office will process your renewal and issue a temporary license while your permanent one is mailed to you.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?

Online renewals are mailed within 10 to 15 business days. You'll receive a confirmation number when ready after submitting your process, and you can use it to track your renewal status on the DMV website.

Do I need a new photo when I renew my Connecticut license?

No, you can keep your current photo if you renew online or by mail. If you renew in person at a DMV office, a new photo will be taken automatically. If you renew online and want a new photo, you must visit a DMV office instead.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You cannot renew online or by mail if your name has changed. Visit a DMV office and bring a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. The office will take a new photo and process your renewal in person.

Can I renew my license early?

Yes, you can renew up to one year before your license expires. This is useful if you're planning a trip or want to avoid the rush as your expiration date approaches.