Where to renew and what documents you need

Connecticut lets you renew your driver's license in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online through the state's portal — but which route you can use depends on how close you are to your expiration date and whether you've had recent address changes. The fastest option for most people is the online renewal at ct.gov/dmv, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $72 for an eight-year license. You'll need your current Connecticut license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address.

If you're renewing by mail, send your completed DL 43 form (the renewal process) along with your current license and a check or money order to the DMV address listed on the form. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal at any DMV office requires your current license, proof of Connecticut residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and payment. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can also schedule an appointment online to avoid waiting.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through ct.gov/dmv is the fastest option and requires only your license number, last four digits of your Social Security number, and an email address.
  • You can renew by mail using the DL 43 form, which takes two to three weeks, or in person at any DMV office with your current license and proof of residency.
  • Connecticut driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
  • If your address has changed, you must renew in person or update your address online before using mail renewal.

Online renewal: the fastest route

The Connecticut DMV online renewal system is open 24 hours and handles most standard renewals without a visit to an office. You'll answer questions about your current address, any medical conditions, and whether you want to register as an organ donor. The system checks your information against state records and either approves you when ready or tells you what's missing. Once approved, your new license ships within 7 to 10 business days.

Online renewal is not available if your license has been suspended, if you've had a name change since your last license, or if you need to update your address and your current license shows an out-of-state address. You also cannot renew online if your license expired more than one year ago — at that point you must explore for a new license in person.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

Connecticut has DMV offices in Wethersfield, Norwalk, Waterbury, and New Britain. You can walk in during business hours or book an appointment online at ct.gov/dmv to skip the line. Bring your current license, proof of residency dated within the last 60 days (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work), and payment. The office will take a new photo, verify your information, and issue your renewed license on the spot or mail it within a few days depending on the office's current volume.

In-person renewal is required if you've changed your name, if your address on your current license is out of state, or if you need to correct information that online renewal flagged. It's also the only option if your license has been expired for more than a year or if you have an active suspension.

Mail renewal: when you have time

Request the DL 43 renewal form from the DMV website or call 860-263-8354 to have one mailed to you. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it with your current license and a check or money order for $72 (payable to "Commissioner of Motor Vehicles") to the address on the form. Include a copy of your proof of residency if your address has changed since your last license.

Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your packet. You cannot use mail renewal if your address has changed and your current license shows an out-of-state address, or if you need to update your name. Track your process status online at ct.gov/dmv using your license number.

What happens if your license expires before renewal arrives

Connecticut allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires, so plan ahead if you know you'll be traveling or busy. If your license does expire while you're waiting for your renewed one, you can still drive legally as long as you have proof that you've submitted a renewal process — either a confirmation email from online renewal or a receipt from mailing your process. Keep that proof with you while driving.

If your license expires and you have not started a renewal, you cannot legally drive. You'll need to explore for a new license in person at a DMV office, which costs more and takes longer than a standard renewal.

Costs and payment methods

A standard eight-year Connecticut driver's license renewal costs $72. Online and mail renewal accept payment by credit card, debit card, or check. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you're renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the cost is higher — contact the DMV for current CDL renewal pricing.

Some DMV offices charge an additional fee if you need a replacement license issued the same day, typically $10 to $15. Ask when you schedule your appointment or arrive in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

If your license expired less than one year ago, you can renew it using any of the three methods. If it expired more than one year ago, you must explore for a new license in person at a DMV office, which requires more documents and costs more than a renewal.

What if my address changed since my last license?

If your current license shows a Connecticut address, you can renew online or by mail and update your address during the process. If your current license shows an out-of-state address, you must renew in person and bring proof of your new Connecticut residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).

How long does it take to get my renewed license?

Online renewal ships within 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your packet. In-person renewal either issues your license on the spot or mails it within a few days, depending on the office.

Do I need a new photo for renewal?

Online and mail renewal use your existing photo from your current license. In-person renewal requires a new photo, which the DMV takes at the office.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew a lost license by mail or online. You must go to a DMV office in person and request a replacement license, which costs more than a standard renewal. Bring proof of identity and residency.