USA Connecticut Driver License

Connecticut Driver License: 2025 Guide to Apply, Renew & Transfer

Need to apply for, renew, or transfer a Connecticut driver license? Whether you’re a first-time driver, a new resident, or upgrading to a REAL ID, this complete 2025 guide will walk you through the process based on current Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CT DMV) regulations.

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Types of Connecticut Driver Licenses

• Class D License – Standard license for private passenger vehicles
• Learner’s Permit – Required for new drivers under 18
• Commercial Driver License (CDL) – For commercial vehicle operation
• Motorcycle Endorsement (Class M) – For motorcycle operation
• Non-Driver Photo ID – For identification only

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REAL ID in Connecticut

Connecticut issues REAL ID-compliant licenses, which display a gold star in the upper right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID will be required to:

• Board domestic flights
• Enter federal buildings
• Access military bases

To get a REAL ID, you must apply in person with additional documentation (see below).

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How to Get a Driver License in Connecticut

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

• 16+ years old for a learner’s permit
• 18+ years old for a full driver license (or earlier if graduated from a permit and passed testing)

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Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Bring the following to your DMV appointment:

• Proof of identity (U.S. birth certificate or passport)
• Proof of Social Security number (SSN card, W-2, 1099)
• Two documents showing Connecticut residency
• Proof of legal presence in the U.S.
• If applying for a REAL ID, you’ll need all the above documents

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Step 3: Pass the Required Tests

New drivers must complete:

• Vision test
• Knowledge (written) test
• Road skills test (after holding permit for required time)

Written and road tests can be scheduled at ct.gov/dmv.

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Learner’s Permit & Graduated Licensing for Teens

Connecticut requires a learner’s permit for all new drivers under 18:

• Must be held for 120–180 days (depending on driver education)
• Must complete 40 hours of behind-the-wheel training
• Restrictions apply (e.g., no passengers other than parents/instructors, no driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.)

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Transferring an Out-of-State License to Connecticut

If you’re moving to Connecticut, you must transfer your license within 30 days of establishing residency.

Steps:

1. Visit a CT DMV office with an appointment
2. Present required documents
3. Surrender your out-of-state license
4. Pass a vision screening
5. (Tests may be waived if your license is valid and not expired)

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Renewing a Connecticut Driver License

You can renew:

• Online at ct.gov/dmv (if eligible)
• In person by appointment
• Every 6 years (or every 4 years if you’re 65 or older)

You’ll receive a renewal notice by mail or email. REAL ID upgrades may require an in-person visit with full documentation.

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Connecticut DMV Fees (2025)

License Type	Fee
New Standard or REAL ID License	$72 (6 years)
Learner’s Permit	$19
Road Test Appointment	$40
Motorcycle Endorsement	$30
Non-Driver ID	$28
Duplicate License	$30

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Online Services Offered by CT DMV

• Driver license renewals (if eligible)
• Address changes
• REAL ID appointment scheduling
• Road test booking
• Check license status
• Duplicate license requests

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Required Documents Checklist

✅ Proof of identity (passport or birth certificate)
✅ Proof of SSN
✅ Two proofs of Connecticut residency
✅ Proof of legal presence (if not a U.S. citizen)
✅ Parent consent form (if under 18)

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For appointments, eligibility, and full service details, visit the Connecticut DMV official website.