How to Contact and Use the Connecticut DMV

What the Connecticut DMV handles and where to find it

The Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is a division of the Connecticut Department of Transportation. It issues driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, and handles title transfers. The main office is located in Wethersfield, Connecticut, and the DMV also operates branch offices in several cities across the state.

You can reach the Connecticut DMV by phone at 860-263-5700 during business hours, Monday through Friday. The main website is ct.gov/dmv. Most routine transactions — renewing a registration, changing your address, or ordering a duplicate license — can be started online or by mail without visiting an office in person.

The DMV's hours vary by location. The Wethersfield headquarters is open 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. Branch offices keep different schedules, so check the specific location on ct.gov/dmv before you go. Many offices do not accept walk-ins for all services, so calling ahead or checking online is necessary.

Key Takeaways

• The Connecticut DMV is part of the Department of Transportation and handles driver's licenses, vehicle registrations, and title transfers through offices in Wethersfield and branch locations statewide.
• You can reach the main DMV office by phone at 860-263-5700 Monday through Friday during business hours, or visit ct.gov/dmv to start many transactions online.
• Most branch offices do not accept walk-ins for all services, so check the specific location's hours and appointment requirements before visiting.
• Address changes, registration renewals, and duplicate license requests can often be completed by mail or online without going to an office.

How to renew your driver's license in Connecticut

Connecticut driver's licenses are valid for six years. The DMV will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. You can renew online at ct.gov/dmv if your license is not suspended or revoked and you have not had a name change since your last renewal.

To renew online, you will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The online renewal takes about 10 minutes. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail using the form that comes with your renewal notice, or you can visit a DMV office in person.

If your license has expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it — you must reapply as if getting a new license. This requires an in-person visit, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.

How to change your address with the Connecticut DMV

You can change your address on your driver's license and vehicle registration online, by mail, or in person. The fastest method is online at ct.gov/dmv. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The address change takes effect when ready online.

If you prefer to change your address by mail, read the form from ct.gov/dmv, fill it out, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with a copy of your driver's license. Processing by mail takes 7 to 10 business days. You can also visit any DMV office to change your address in person — bring your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.

Connecticut law requires you to notify the DMV of an address change within 30 days of moving. Failing to do so can result in fines and may affect your ability to renew your registration or license.

How to register a vehicle or renew vehicle registration

Connecticut vehicle registration is valid for two years. You can renew your registration online at ct.gov/dmv if your vehicle has not been in an accident, does not have any liens, and you have not had a name change. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing by mail or in person.

The DMV will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before your registration expires. If you renew online, your new registration will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can also renew by mail using the form that comes with your notice, or visit a DMV office in person.

To register a new vehicle in Connecticut, you must visit a DMV office or mail in the required documents. You will need the vehicle's title, proof of insurance, proof of residency, and payment for the registration fee. New vehicle registration takes 7 to 10 business days if you mail it in, or is completed the same day if you visit an office in person.

Connecticut DMV branch office locations

Connecticut operates DMV offices in Wethersfield (the main office), Bridgeport, Danbury, Hartford, New Haven, Norwalk, Waterbury, and Willimantic. Each branch handles driver's licenses, registrations, and title transfers. Hours and services vary by location.

Before visiting any branch office, check ct.gov/dmv for the specific location's hours, phone number, and whether an appointment is required. Some offices require appointments for certain services, while others accept walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis. Calling ahead at 860-263-5700 can tell you whether you need an appointment and how long the wait typically is.

The Wethersfield headquarters is the largest office and handles all DMV services. If you cannot reach a branch office or need to handle a complex transaction, the main office is usually your best option.

What documents you need for common Connecticut DMV transactions

For a driver's license renewal, you need your current license and a valid payment method if renewing online. If renewing by mail or in person, you also need proof of your Social Security number and proof of residency if your address has changed.

For a new vehicle registration, you need the vehicle's title, proof of insurance (your policy number and company name), proof of residency, and payment for the registration fee. The registration fee depends on the vehicle's weight and type.

For a title transfer when buying or selling a vehicle, you need the current title, a bill of sale signed by both buyer and seller, proof of insurance, and payment for the transfer fee. If the vehicle has a lien, the lienholder must sign the title as well.

For an address change, you need your current driver's license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement. If changing your address online, you only need your license number and Social Security number.

How to order a duplicate driver's license or registration card

You can order a duplicate driver's license online at ct.gov/dmv if your license is not suspended or revoked. The duplicate will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method.

You can also order a duplicate by mail. read the form from ct.gov/dmv, fill it out, and mail it with a copy of your current license and payment. Processing by mail takes 7 to 10 business days.

If you need a duplicate registration card, you can order one online or by mail using the same process. The duplicate registration card costs less than a duplicate license and arrives within the same timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the phone number for the Connecticut DMV?

The main DMV office phone number is 860-263-5700. This line is open Monday through Friday during business hours. You can also find phone numbers for specific branch offices on ct.gov/dmv.

Can I renew my Connecticut driver's license online?

Yes, you can renew online at ct.gov/dmv if your license is not suspended or revoked and you have not had a name change since your last renewal. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes, and your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

How long does it take to get a new vehicle registration?

If you mail in your registration, it takes 7 to 10 business days. If you visit a DMV office in person, your registration is completed the same day. Online renewal of an existing registration also takes 7 to 10 business days by mail.

Do I need an appointment to visit a Connecticut DMV office?

Some offices require appointments for certain services, while others accept walk-ins. Check ct.gov/dmv for your specific branch office's policy, or call 860-263-5700 to ask whether you need an appointment.

What do I need to change my address with the Connecticut DMV?

Online, you need your driver's license number and Social Security number. By mail or in person, you need your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease. Connecticut law requires you to notify the DMV within 30 days of moving.