What you need to do to replace your Connecticut license

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Connecticut driver's license, you must visit a DMV office in person with proof of identity and residency. Connecticut does not allow online or mail-in replacement for a standard license — you cannot order a replacement through the website or by phone. The DMV will take a new photo, verify your information against state records, and issue a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card is printed and mailed to your address.

The process takes about 15 to 20 minutes at the window if you have all required documents. Your replacement license will have the same number as your original, and you can drive legally on the temporary paper license when ready. The plastic card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though this varies by mail delivery.

Key Takeaways

  • You must go to a Connecticut DMV office in person with a valid photo ID and proof of your current address to replace your license.
  • The DMV will issue you a temporary paper license to drive on the same day, and mail your plastic replacement card within 7 to 10 business days.
  • Your replacement license keeps the same number as your original license.
  • If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police and monitor your credit, since a stolen ID can be used for fraud.
  • Replacement fees are $30 for a standard license and $45 for a REAL ID-compliant license, and these fees do not refund if you find your original license later.

Documents you need to bring

Bring one valid photo ID (your passport, military ID, or another state's driver's license) and one document showing your current Connecticut address. Acceptable address documents include a recent utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address. The address document must be dated within the last 60 days.

If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two non-photo documents that prove your identity — such as a birth certificate and Social Security card — plus your address proof. The DMV staff can tell you over the phone whether your specific documents will work, so call ahead if you are unsure.

Where to go and how to schedule

Connecticut has DMV offices in multiple locations across the state. You can find the nearest office and its hours on the Connecticut DMV website. Most offices accept walk-ins, but wait times vary widely — some offices have 30-minute waits, others have two-hour waits depending on the time of day and day of the week.

You can schedule an appointment online through the Connecticut DMV website, which usually reduces your wait time to 15 minutes or less. Appointments are free and can be booked up to 30 days in advance. If you walk in without an appointment, arrive early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon to avoid peak hours.

The cost and what type of license to choose

A standard Connecticut driver's license replacement costs $30. A REAL ID-compliant replacement costs $45. The difference is that a REAL ID license can be used for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings without a passport, while a standard license cannot. If you already have a REAL ID license, your replacement will be REAL ID by default unless you request otherwise.

If you are unsure which type you have, the DMV staff can check your record when you arrive. You do not need to decide before you go — you can choose at the window. The fee is non-refundable, so if you find your original license after paying for a replacement, you cannot get your money back.

If your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, consider filing a police report, especially if you suspect it could be used for identity theft. A stolen ID can be used to open accounts, explore for credit, or commit fraud in your name. You do not need a police report to replace your license at the DMV, but having one on file protects you legally if fraudulent activity occurs.

After replacing your license, monitor your credit by checking your credit report at annualcreditreport.com (the only free, official source). You can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — which alerts lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts. These steps are free and take about 15 minutes total.

Temporary paper license and driving legally

The temporary paper license the DMV gives you on the day of replacement is a valid, legal document to drive on. You can use it when ready to drive to work, run errands, or travel. Keep it in your wallet or vehicle at all times while you are waiting for your plastic card to arrive, because police will ask to see it if you are pulled over.

The paper license is fragile — it can tear, fade, or become illegible if wet. Laminating it is not recommended because it can damage the barcode. If your paper license becomes damaged or unreadable before your plastic card arrives, return to the DMV and request a replacement temporary license at no charge.

What to do if your replacement card does not arrive

If your plastic replacement card does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the Connecticut DMV by phone or visit an office in person. Bring your temporary paper license and any tracking information you may have. The DMV can check the status of your card and reissue it if it was lost in the mail.

If your card was lost in the mail, the DMV will issue another replacement at no additional charge. If you moved after submitting your replacement order, your card may have been delivered to your old address — check with the current residents or file a mail forwarding request with the postal service. The DMV can reissue and send the card to your new address if needed.

Scam alert: Fake DMV websites and phone numbers

Do not use any website or phone number you find through a search engine without verifying it first. Scammers create fake DMV websites that look nearly identical to the real one and charge fees to "process" your replacement, then steal your personal information or payment details. The real Connecticut DMV website is ct.gov/dmv — check the address bar carefully before entering any information.

The Connecticut DMV does not contact you by email or text message asking you to verify your information or pay fees online. If you receive an email or text claiming to be from the DMV, do not click any links or provide information — it is a scam. When in doubt, call the DMV directly using the phone number on your current license or on the official ct.gov website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license by mail or online?

No. Connecticut requires you to replace your license in person at a DMV office. You cannot mail in a replacement request or complete the process online. You must bring valid ID and proof of address to an office location.

Will my replacement license have a different number?

No. Your replacement license will have the same number as your original license. The DMV keeps your license number on file for your entire driving history, so it does not change when you replace a lost or damaged card.

What if I do not have a current utility bill or lease for my address?

You can use other documents that show your name and current address dated within 60 days, such as a bank statement, mortgage statement, government mail, or insurance documents. Call the DMV before you go to confirm your specific document will work.

Can I get a replacement license the same day?

You will receive a temporary paper license the same day that is valid to drive when ready. Your plastic card is mailed to you and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You cannot pick up the plastic card at the office — it is always mailed.

What happens if I find my original license after I replace it?

You can keep both the original and the replacement — there is no penalty. However, the replacement fee is non-refundable, so you cannot get your $30 or $45 back. If you prefer to use your original license, you can straightforward discard the replacement when it arrives.