Book your Connecticut license renewal appointment online or by phone before your license expires
Connecticut requires you to schedule an appointment to renew your driver's license. You cannot walk in without one. The Connecticut DMV operates an online appointment system where you can pick a date and time at a branch near you, or you can call 860-263-5700 to book by phone. Most appointments are available within two to four weeks, though wait times vary by location and season.
You will need your current Connecticut driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to book online. The appointment itself takes about 15 to 20 minutes once you arrive, but you must bring the correct documents or the DMV will turn you away and you will have to reschedule.
Key Takeaways
- Schedule your appointment through the Connecticut DMV website (ct.gov/dmv) or by calling 860-263-5700 at least two weeks before your license expires.
- You will need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to book online.
- Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and your Social Security card or birth certificate to your appointment.
- If you miss your appointment, you can reschedule online or by phone without penalty, but do not wait until after your license expires.
How to book an appointment online
Go to ct.gov/dmv and look for the "Schedule an Appointment" link on the homepage. Click it and select "License Renewal" from the menu. Enter your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will show you available dates and times at DMV branches across Connecticut.
Choose the location closest to you and the date that works best. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment number and the address of the branch. Save this email or write down your appointment number — you will need it when you arrive. If the dates shown are too far out, try a different branch location, as availability varies.
Booking by phone if online is not an option
Call 860-263-5700 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). Have your license number and Social Security number ready. A representative will ask which branch you prefer and what dates work for you, then book the appointment and give you a confirmation number.
Phone lines are busiest in the morning and on Mondays. If you reach a busy signal, try calling back in the afternoon or the next day. The DMV does not take appointments by email or through social media.
What documents to bring to your appointment
Bring your current Connecticut driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address. Proof of address must be dated within the last 60 days and can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. A cell phone bill counts only if it shows your street address.
If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. If you are renewing a license that has been lost or stolen, bring a police report. The DMV will not accept screenshots or photos of documents — bring the originals or certified copies.
What happens if you miss your appointment
If you cannot make your appointment, reschedule through the same online system or by calling 860-263-5700. You can cancel and rebook as many times as you need. There is no fee for rescheduling, and missing an appointment does not affect your ability to book another one.
Do not ignore a missed appointment and wait until after your license expires. Once your license is expired, you cannot legally drive, and renewal becomes more complicated. If your license has already expired, you can still book a renewal appointment, but you may face additional requirements or longer processing times.
Timeline and processing after your appointment
Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days after your appointment. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives, even if your current license is expired, as long as you have proof of your appointment (your confirmation email or number).
If you need your new license faster, ask the DMV representative at your appointment about expedited processing. Some branches offer same-day or next-day service for an additional fee, though availability depends on the location and how busy the branch is that day.
What to do if you cannot get an appointment in time
If your license expires before you can get an appointment, you can still renew by mail in Connecticut. read the DL 43 form from ct.gov/dmv, fill it out, and mail it with a copy of your current license and proof of address to the address listed on the form. Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks, so use this only if you have already missed the appointment window.
If your license is already expired and you need to drive when ready, you cannot legally do so. You must either get an appointment as soon as possible or use mail renewal and wait for your new license to arrive. Driving on an expired license can result in a fine and a traffic stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Connecticut license without an appointment?
No. Connecticut requires an appointment for all license renewals. Walk-ins are not accepted. You must schedule through the online system or by phone before you visit a DMV branch.
How far in advance should I book my appointment?
Book at least two weeks before your license expires. During busy seasons (spring and summer), appointments may be available only four to six weeks out. Check availability as soon as you know your renewal date.
What if I do not have a Social Security card?
Bring a W-2, 1099, or other document showing your Social Security number instead. If you do not have any of these, bring your birth certificate and a second form of ID. The DMV will work with you to verify your number.
Can someone else pick up my new license for me?
No. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file. You cannot have it mailed to someone else or pick it up at a branch. If you are moving, update your address before your appointment so the license is mailed to your new home.
What if my appointment is at a branch far from home?
You can choose any DMV branch in Connecticut for your appointment. If the closest branch has no availability, try branches in nearby towns — they may have earlier dates. You do not have to renew at the branch closest to your home.