How to Get a Driver's License in Connecticut

If you're looking to obtain a driver's license in Connecticut, the process is straightforward but involves several important steps. The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (CT DMV) manages all licensing services. Depending on your age and driving history, the requirements may vary.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a Connecticut driver's license, you must:

Be at least 16 years old.
Reside in Connecticut.
Provide proof of legal presence in the U.S.
Not have a suspended license in another state.

For new drivers under age 18, the state requires completion of a driver education program and a learner’s permit phase.

Learner's Permit for Teens (16-17 Years Old)

Before you can obtain a full driver’s license, teens must first secure a learner’s permit by:

Scheduling an appointment for a knowledge test.
Submitting required identification and proof of residency documents.
Paying the permit fee.
Passing the 25-question knowledge test and vision test.

You must hold the permit for at least 120 days (with driver education) or 180 days (without) before applying for a road test.

Adult Applicants (18 and Older)

Adults are not required to obtain a learner’s permit but must still:

Pass a vision test.
Pass a knowledge test unless they have a valid out-of-state license.
Provide two forms of identification and proof of residency.

Required Documents

You’ll need to bring the following documents when applying:

Proof of identity (U.S. passport, birth certificate, etc.)
Proof of Social Security number
Two pieces of mail with your Connecticut address
Legal presence documentation if not a U.S. citizen

Connecticut participates in the REAL ID program, so be sure to bring appropriate documents if applying for a REAL ID-compliant license. For more on this, check out our Connecticut REAL ID Requirements and Application Guide.

Testing Process

To earn a Connecticut driver’s license, you must pass:

Vision Test: Must meet minimum visual standards.
Knowledge Test: 25 questions; 80% required to pass.
Road Test: Conducted by appointment after holding a permit and completing the required training.

Make sure to review the Connecticut Right-of-Way Rules Explained and Connecticut Speeding Laws and Penalties as part of your preparation.

Fees

As of 2025, fees for licensing are:

Learner’s Permit: $19
Knowledge Test: $40
License (for applicants 18+): $72 for a 6-year license
Road Test Appointment: $40

Check the official CT DMV fees page

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a Connecticut driver's license, you must:

Be at least 16 years old.

Reside in Connecticut.

Provide proof of legal presence in the U.S.

Not have a suspended license in another state.

For new drivers under age 18, the state requires completion of a driver education program and a learner’s permit phase.

Learner's Permit for Teens (16-17 Years Old)

Before you can obtain a full driver’s license, teens must first secure a learner’s permit by:

Scheduling an appointment for a knowledge test.

Submitting required identification and proof of residency documents.

Paying the permit fee.

Passing the 25-question knowledge test and vision test.

You must hold the permit for at least 120 days (with driver education) or 180 days (without) before applying for a road test.

Required Documents

You’ll need to bring the following documents when applying:

Proof of identity (U.S. passport, birth certificate, etc.)

Proof of Social Security number

Two pieces of mail with your Connecticut address

Legal presence documentation if not a U.S. citizen

Testing Process

To earn a Connecticut driver’s license, you must pass:

Vision Test: Must meet minimum visual standards.

Knowledge Test: 25 questions; 80% required to pass.

Road Test: Conducted by appointment after holding a permit and completing the required training.