Renewing Your License in Connecticut

Determine the Status of Your License

Driving without a current license is illegal. So, it pays to know when your license expires. But, you may renew your license up to 120 days before its expiration date.

Of course, you'll also need to meet the state's auto insurance requirements in order to drive. See our Insurance Center to locate carriers and research who is offering the best coverage for reasonable rates.

Valid License

Most licenses expire every six years. However, if you're at least 65 years old, you can request a two-year license instead. Regardless, with limited exceptions, you must handle your class D license renewal in person.

Commercial drivers should refer to our Renewing Your CDL page for instructions on how to handle their license renewal.

You can always check your license status by obtaining a copy of your driving record.

Expired License

While you can't legally drive with an expired license, the state gives you up to two years after the expiration date to renew without having to repeat the licensing process. Just follow the renewal instructions for valid licenses. If you need to check your license status, you can always do so by buying a copy of your driving record.

NOTE: The state now charges a $25 late fee for the renewal of an expired license.

Suspended License

Suspended license issues can be tricky to navigate. You can verify your license status by obtaining a copy of your driving record. Since your insurance rates probably will rise, visit our Insurance Center to locate the best rates available for you.

See our Suspended License page for information on how to reinstate your license, as well the fees involved.

Lost License

If you need to get a duplicate license, see our article for instructions on how to accomplish this task.

Check Your Renewal Notice

You should receive a notice in the mail from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) before your renewal date. It's helpful―though not required―to have the notice with you when you renew.

Renew Online

Online renewals are not available.

Renew in Person

Take your license and your renewal reminder card (if possible) to any of the following DMV locations to renew your license:

• Branches

• Satellite offices

• Photo license centers

• Photo license buses

If you don't have your current license, bring two acceptable documents with you.

Six-year renewals cost $66, while two-year renewals cost $22.

Renew by Mail

Under certain conditions, if you're outside of the state when your license expires, you may renew your license by mail. The DMV provides complete details about processing your renewal in this manner.

Update Your Driving Skills

A lot can happen in the six years between your license renewals. Taking a traffic school course is a good way to keep your driving skills and knowledge sharp, and may possibly lower your insurance rates in the process. Check with your insurance carrier to see if you could qualify for a discount, or find a provider that offers the discount by browsing through our Insurance Center.

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