Connecticut DMV Fees Guide)
Understanding the various fees associated with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is essential for residents and vehicle owners. This guide provides a detailed overview of the current fees for vehicle registration, driver's licenses, and other related services in Connecticut as of 2025.
Vehicle Registration Fees
Registration fees in Connecticut vary based on vehicle type, usage, and weight. Below is a summary of the standard registration fees:
Passenger Vehicles
- Standard Passenger Car: $120 for a three-year registration.
- Combination Passenger Vehicle: $132 for a three-year registration.
- Classic Vehicle: $120 for a three-year registration.
Additional fees may apply:
- Plate Fee: $5
- Title Fee: $25
- Administrative Fee: $10
- Clean Air Act Fee: $15
- Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fee: $15 (if the vehicle has a certificate of origin)
- Emissions Exemption Fee: $40 (for vehicles four years old or newer)
- Lien Fee: $10 (if applicable)
- Passport to the Parks Fee: $15 (increasing to $24 effective July 1, 2025) [^1]
Commercial Vehicles
Registration fees for commercial vehicles are based on the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). For detailed information, refer to the Connecticut DMV Commercial Fee Chart.
Motorcycles
- Regular Motorcycle: $63 for a three-year registration.
- Commercial Motorcycle: $90 for a three-year registration.
- Classic Motorcycle: $63 for a three-year registration.
Additional applicable fees:
- Plate Fee: $5
- Title Fee: $25
- Administrative Fee: $10
- Clean Air Act Fee: $15
- Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fee: $10
- Passport to the Parks Fee: $15 (increasing to $24 effective July 1, 2025)
Driver's License Fees
- New Driver's License: $84
- Testing Fee: $40 (covers vision, knowledge, and road tests)
- REAL ID Upgrade: $30 (if not coinciding with license renewal) [^2]
For more details on obtaining a driver's license, visit How to Get a Driver's License in Connecticut.
Learner's Permit Fees
- Learner's Permit: $19
- Testing Fee: $40
For comprehensive information on learner's permits, see How to Obtain a Learner's Permit in Connecticut.
Emissions Testing Fee
- Emissions Test: $20
All test centers accept cash; some may also accept checks or credit cards. It's advisable to confirm payment methods with the test center beforehand.
Special Fees
- Temporary Registration: $27 for a 10-day period (for commercial vehicles with GVWR of 6,000 pounds or less)
- Title Only: $25 title fee + $10 administrative fee
- Handicap Parking Permit: No fee
For information on obtaining a handicap parking permit, refer to How to Apply for a Handicap Parking Permit in Connecticut.
Payment Methods
Accepted payment methods at DMV offices include:
- Cash
- Checks (personal, business, money orders, bank checks)
- Credit/Debit Cards (Mastercard or Visa)
Note: AAA offices may charge a convenience fee per DMV transaction. AAA Northeast members are exempt from this fee; members of other AAA clubs may be charged $6, and non-members $8.
For more details on payment options, visit How to Pay DMV Fees in Connecticut.
[^1]: The Passport to the Parks fee provides Connecticut residents with free access to state parks, beaches, and forests. The fee is included in the vehicle registration cost and is set to increase from $15 to $24 for a standard three-year registration effective July 1, 2025. Source
[^2]: The REAL ID is a federally compliant identification required for boarding domestic flights and entering certain federal buildings. The upgrade fee is $30 if not coinciding with license renewal. Source