Connecticut License Renewal at a Glance
How to Renew Your Driver's License in Connecticut
You renew your license through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Your CT license lasts 6 years. It runs out on your birthday. For a general overview of renewal rules across all states, see our driver's license renewal guide. Here are your options and steps.
Ways to Renew
- Online — the fastest way to renew. Visit the DMV renewal portal.
- In person — go to a DMV office. First-time REAL ID, vision tests, and new photos all need an in-person visit.
Steps to Renew
- Check eligibility — Go to the CT DMV portal. Can you renew online? Make sure it isn't expired.
- Gather documents — Grab your license number, SSN, and payment. Need REAL ID? Bring ID and address docs.
- Complete the application — Use the CT DMV portal. You can also visit a hub office. Check your info. Then submit.
- Pay the fee — Pay $72. Use a credit card, debit card, or e-check.
- Receive your license — Get a temp card at the office. Online? Your card comes in 7 to 10 days.
Connecticut Driver's License Renewal Fees
| Standard renewal fee | $72 |
| Duplicate/replacement license | $30 |
| Motorcycle endorsement | $17 |
| Name change | $30 |
| Senior renewal (age 65+, 2-year) | $24 |
| Valid for | 6 years |
It's $72 for 6 years. REAL ID costs the same. No late fee.
What to Bring
Bring these docs when you renew:
- Current or expired Connecticut driver's license
- Social Security number
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport for REAL ID)
- Two proofs of Connecticut residency (for REAL ID)
- Renewal fee payment
Who Can Renew Online
You can renew online if you meet these rules:
- Your license is not expired more than 2 years
- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Your license is not suspended or revoked
- You have a valid photo on file
- You are not upgrading to REAL ID for the first time
Renew online if your photo is current. You'll need a new photo now and then.
Go to DMV online renewal portalWhat Happens If Your Connecticut License Expires
Connecticut has no grace period. Driving expired is a fine in CT.
- Before expiry — Up to 6 months before expiration
- After expiry — Up to 2 years after expiration without retaking tests
- Long-lapsed penalty — Over 2 years late? You must retake both tests. Fines hit $150 for driving expired.
If you also need to update your vehicle registration, see our car registration renewal guide.
Important: You cannot drive with an expired license in Connecticut. The window only affects how you renew. It does not let you drive past your expiry date.
Vision Test & Health Rules
- Vision test — Yes, at every in-person visit. Online? No vision test needed.
- In-person visits — Renew online if your photo is current. You'll need a new photo now and then.
- Wait time — Online takes 3 to 5 days. Your card comes by mail in 7 to 10 days.
Common Connecticut License Renewal Mistakes
Watch out for these mistakes:
Not budgeting for Connecticut's high renewal fee
CT is $72. That's one of the top fees. Seniors pay $24 for 2 years. Plan for this cost.
Forgetting the senior 2-year cycle starts at 65
CT drops from 6 years to 2 at age 65. That means more trips. Each one costs $24.
Not visiting a hub office for REAL ID
CT REAL ID is only at hub offices. Not every branch has it. Check the portal for hub spots near you.
Not taking advantage of the 2-year post-expiration window
CT lets you renew up to 2 years late. No retest needed. Don't panic if yours just ran out.
REAL ID Info for Connecticut
CT has REAL ID at no extra cost. Go to a DMV hub office. Bring your birth cert or passport, SSN card, and two CT address proofs.
You need a REAL ID (gold star) to board U.S. flights. You also need one to enter federal buildings. This started May 7, 2025. Get one at your next in-person visit. See our full REAL ID deadline guide for costs and next steps.
Senior & Age Rules
Age 65 or older? Renew every 2 years. Not 6.
What Makes Connecticut Different
CT drops the cycle from 6 years to 2 at age 65.
At $72, CT has one of the top fees in the U.S.
CT lets you renew up to 2 years late. No retest needed.