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 depending on your situation. The fastest route is usually online through the Connecticut DMV website if you're renewing a standard license that hasn't expired more than five years ago. If you're renewing in person, you'll need to visit a DMV branch — there are locations in Wethersfield, Norwalk, Waterbury, and Danbury, plus several others across the state.

For any renewal method, bring your current Connecticut driver's license and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. If you're renewing in person, bring these documents with you. If you're renewing by mail, include copies.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut offers online renewal for most drivers whose licenses haven't expired more than five years ago, which takes about one week from submission to delivery.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office requires your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of address if it has changed.
  • Mail renewal is available but slower than online or in-person; you'll need to send original documents and wait two to three weeks.
  • Your new license will be mailed to you — you cannot pick it up at the DMV office on the same day for standard renewals.
  • Connecticut charges different fees depending on your license type and how long you want it valid (four or six years).

Online renewal: fastest option for most drivers

The Connecticut DMV online renewal system is the quickest path if you're may be able to access. You can renew online if your current license is still valid or expired no more than five years ago, you have no medical restrictions on your license, and you haven't changed your name. Go to the Connecticut DMV website, select "Renew Your License Online," and follow the steps. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth.

The process takes about 10 minutes. You'll pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card — the amount depends on whether you want a four-year or six-year license. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within about one week. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

If you can't renew online — because your license expired more than five years ago, you have medical restrictions, or you changed your name — you'll need to go to a DMV office in person. Connecticut DMV branches are located in Wethersfield, Norwalk, Waterbury, Danbury, Stamford, New Haven, and Bridgeport. You can check the DMV website for hours and to see if you need to schedule an appointment; some locations now require appointments while others take walk-ins.

Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address if it has changed. The staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot. You'll pay the renewal fee at the window. Your new license will still be mailed to you — it won't be ready the same day. Plan for one to two weeks for delivery.

Mail renewal: slowest but available option

You can also renew by mail if you prefer not to go online or visit an office. read the mail renewal form from the Connecticut DMV website (form DL-43), fill it out completely, and mail it with copies of your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address if it changed. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee — do not send cash.

Mail your packet to the Connecticut DMV address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope, plus mail time in both directions. This method is slower than online or in-person, so plan ahead if your license is expiring soon.

License fees and validity periods

Connecticut charges different renewal fees based on your license type and how long you want it valid. A standard driver's license renewal costs less for a four-year license than a six-year license. The exact amount changes periodically, so check the Connecticut DMV website for current pricing before you renew. You'll pay the same fee whether you renew online, in person, or by mail.

When you renew, you choose whether you want your new license valid for four or six years. The six-year option costs more upfront but means you won't need to renew again for longer. Most drivers choose based on how often they want to deal with renewal and whether they prefer a lower when ready cost.

What to do if your license is already expired

If your Connecticut license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it — you'll need to explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit to a DMV office, a written test, and a road test. The process is more involved and takes longer than a straightforward renewal. If your license expired less than five years ago, you can still renew through any of the three methods above.

If your license expired recently but you need to drive before your new one arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at a DMV office. This is valid for a short period while you wait for your permanent license to be mailed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Connecticut license if I moved out of state?

No. Connecticut only renews licenses for people who still live in Connecticut. If you've moved, you'll need to get a license from your new state. You can surrender your Connecticut license by mail or in person at a DMV office.

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

About one week from the time you submit your renewal online. This includes processing time at the DMV plus mail delivery. You can drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

What if my name changed since my last license?

You cannot renew online if your name changed. You'll need to visit a DMV office in person and bring a document showing your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The staff will process your renewal and take a new photo.

Can I pick up my new license at the DMV instead of waiting for it in the mail?

No. Connecticut mails all renewed licenses to your address on file. You cannot pick up your license at the office the same day. If you need to drive before it arrives, ask about a temporary paper license at the DMV.

What happens if I renew but my address on file is wrong?

Your new license will be mailed to the address the DMV has on file. If that address is incorrect, update it before you renew — you can change your address online through the Connecticut DMV website or in person at a DMV office. If you renew with the wrong address and realize it after, contact the DMV to see if they can intercept the mail.