Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Connecticut requires you to successfully complete a motorcycle safety training course and present proof of completion before you get your CT Class M motorcycle license. Note that you are only allowed to enroll in the course after you have obtained a motorcycle learners permit or after you have passed the vision and written test.

The certificate of completion issued from the motorcycle safety course provider is valid for two years. The classes include classroom and skills training. For a list of state-approved motorcycle training sites, visit the website of the Connecticut Department of Transportation.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

All CT motorcycle learners permit holders must wear a helmet at all times. The same goes for motorcycle license holders under the age of 18. If you are 18 years of age or older, wearing a helmet while operating a motorcycle is not mandatory, however, you are strongly advised to use protective headgear.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

No, Connecticut does not allow commercial driving license renewals online. You must renew your expired CDL in person at a DMV near you. Keep in mind that before you renew your license, you must self-certify through the DMV website and present the printed confirmation when you apply for a commercial drivers license renewal. You must also bring the renewal notice you receive in the mail and your current CT CDL.

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

No, Connecticut currently requires you to take the driving test in person at your local CT DMV. However, keep in mind that learners permit testing is offered by appointment only at DMV Hub Offices, so make sure to schedule an appointment before heading out. The CT Division of Motor Vehicles allows you to make an appointment online as well pay all applicable learners permit fees. Visit the website of the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicle and follow the instructions.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

Yes, if you self-certify for an interstate commercial drivers license. To do so, visit the online services of the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles and follow the instructions. Note that you must be at least 21 years old to apply for an interstate CDL.

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Connecticut defines scooters and mopeds as “motor-driven cycles”. As such, you must be in possession of a valid CT drivers license to operate them. In addition to meeting the requirements for getting a driving license, you are also required to obtain a Class M endorsement on your Connecticut license to drive.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

Yes, taking drivers ed course is mandatory under the Connecticut GDL program. After you have obtained your drivers permit, but before you get your adult learners permit, Connecticut requires you to complete a driver training course. You can enroll in drivers ed classes in a state-approved commercial school, your secondary or high school or you can opt for at-home drivers training. Note that your at-home trainer must be a blood relative or spouse who is at least 20 years old and has held a drivers license for at least 4 years.

All student drivers must have at least 40 hours of behind-the-wheel driving training, as well as completing two-hours of instruction with their parent/guardian. This portion of the drivers education requirements may be offered by a commercial driving or secondary school as part of the eight-hour drivers ed program.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

If you are a military veteran and have verified your status with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, you can receive a veteran designation on your ID in the form of an American Flag symbol. Request a veteran designation on your DMV documents by visiting your local DMV office and follow the same procedure as you would when applying for a new ID

There is no additional cost to add a veteran designation to your ID, apart from the usual applicable fees when renewing, obtaining or replacing a CT identification card. However, if you choose to add the flag symbol before you receive your renewal notice, you will have to pay a $30 fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a Connecticut Identification Card

To apply for a commercial drivers license in Connecticut, you first need to obtain a Commercial Driver Instruction Permit (CDIP). Before you apply for a CDIP, you must self-certify through the DMV website.

To get a CDIP, you need to visit your local DMV Hub office and do the following:

• Present your current CT drivers license.
• Provide your Social Security card or recent W2 form.
• Submit a completed Examination to Determine Physical Condition of Driver form or a US DOT Medical Examiner’s Physical Examination Form CO730, dated within the last two years.
• Present the printed confirmation notice of self-certification with the DMV.
• Submit a completed Application for Commercial Driver’s License (Form R-229a). This form cannot be downloaded; it must be mailed to you.
• Pass a general knowledge test.

After you successfully pass the written exam, you can apply for a CDL. The last step is passing the CDL road test. You must schedule an appointment beforehand by calling the DMV in order to take the drivers test. You will then be mailed the confirmation notice informing you of the date and time of the appointment.

You must take the road test in the vehicle you are applying to operate. Make sure to also bring the appointment confirmation letter, a validated copy of the Application for Commercial Driver’s License, your current CT driving license and CT CDIP. You also need to pay the required fees.

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

You can apply for a CT learners permit as soon as you turn 16 ] at a Connecticut DMV near you. Keep in mind that learners permit testing is offered by appointment only at DMV Hub Offices, so make sure to schedule an appointment before heading out. Using the online portal, you can make written knowledge test appointment and pay all applicable learners permit fees. Visit the website of the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles and follow the instructions.

When applying for a learners permit, bring with you all required documents and applicable fees, if you have not paid the fees through the online service beforehand. You will also be required to pass a vision and written knowledge test.

Connecticut requires all first time drivers who are 18 years old or older to get an adult learners permit and hold it for at least 90 days before taking the driving test. The procedure to apply for an adult learners permit is similar to applying for an instruction permit. Adult learners permit holders must also take an eight-hour safe driving practices course and present proof of successful course completion when applying for a CT drivers license.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

To apply for a Class M endorsement on your CT driving license, visit your local CT DMV and follow the steps provided below:

• Obtain and complete an Application for Non-Commercial Driver’s License (form R-229).
• Provide a completed and signed Certificate of Parental Consent (form 2-D) only applies to applicants younger than 18.
• Pass a vision test.
• Pass the motorcycle knowledge test.
• Pay all applicable license and testing fees.
• Complete an approved motorcycle safety course. You can only attend the course after you have obtained a CT motorcycle learners permit or after you have passed the vision and written test.
• Go back to your local DMV Hub Office to get your Connecticut motorcycle license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

If your Connecticut ID card has been stolen, lost or damaged, you must apply for a duplicate identification card with your local DMV. To replace ID cards, residents can submit a completed Application for Duplicate of Current Driver’s License or Permit (form 1-B) and provide one acceptable proof of identity.

If you are currently out of state, you are allowed to submit your application for an ID card replacement through the mail. Send the required documents and fees to:

Department of Motor Vehicles

60 State Street

Wethersfield, CT 06109

For more information: How to Apply for a Connecticut Identification Card

A CT learners permit is valid for two years and can be renewed for a maximum of one year after it expires. If you do not renew your driving permit in two years after it was initially issued, you will need to start the application process again and retake all the tests.

You can renew your CT permit to drive 90 days before it expires. Note that you are only allowed to renew your Connecticut learning permit two times. Visit a CT DMV location near you to get the renewal process started.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

The Connecticut DMV will send you a renewal notice before your current ID expires, which you need to submit to the local CT DMV when renewing your expired ID card. You must also provide payment for the renewal fee and your current Connecticut ID. If you do not have it, you are required to present other forms of identification.

Please note that if your ID has been expired for over two years, you will have to apply for a new CT identification card.

For more information: How to Apply for a Connecticut Identification Card

All CT commercial drivers must be medically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle by the means of a valid DOT medical certificate. Connecticut accepts both an Examination to Determine Physical Condition of Driver form or a US DOT Medical Examiner’s Physical Examination Form, provided they are completed and signed by a licensed medical professional. The Medical Examiner’s Certificate is valid for two years. Commercial drivers license holders must provide the CT DMV with an updated DOT medical certificate prior to the expiration date. You can send the medical card by fax to 860-263-5568, or mail it to the following address:

Department of Motor Vehicles Driver Services 60 State Street Wethersfield, CT 06161

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

The CT motorcycle driving license is good for six years and normally expires on your birthday, at the same time as your CT drivers license. You can renew your Class M motorcycle license at any time within two years before the expiration date. To renew motorcycle drivers license visit a DMV neat you and provide your CT driving license and the $16 renewal fee.

Note that if you do not renew your license within two years from the expiration date, you will have to apply for a new motorcycle driving license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

To apply for a motorcycle drivers license, out-of-state military personnel should:

• Complete the Application for Duplicate Driver License or Non Driver ID by Mail (form B-350)
• Complete the Application for Non Commercial Driver License (form R-229).
• Provide a photocopy of a valid military ID.
• Provide proof of successful completion of a motorcycle safety training course
• Mail the entire package and applicable fees to:

Department of Motor Vehicles Mail-in License Transaction Unit, Room 331 60 State Street Wethersfield, CT 06161 Fax: (860) 263-5591

The CT DMV will mail the duplicate drivers license with a Class M endorsement to the address you have provided. Note that active military members who are currently stationed out of state and who have successfully completed an approved motorcycle safety course are not required to take the motorcycle endorsement examination.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

How long you hold your learners permit depends on the type of driving ed course you choose to take. If you take a drivers training course at a licensed commercial driving school or a secondary/high school, you must hold your learners permit for 120 days. However, you are required to hold your CT learners permit for 180 days if you opt for home training. Furthermore, all applicants are required to complete 40 hours of behind-the-wheel driving practice in addition to drivers ed.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

You will receive your new ID card after you have visited a Connecticut DMV near you and provided the required documents and fees. The period of time it takes to process your application and issue your identification card varies from county to county. Check your local DMV office for more details on the delivery status of your identification card.

For more information: How to Apply for a Connecticut Identification Card

The Connecticut Commercial Driver Instruction Permit is valid for six months, whereas the CT CDL is valid for four years. The CT DMV will send you a renewal notice in the mail several weeks before your license expires. You must renew your expired CDL in person at a Connecticut DMV near you. Commercial drivers to need to bring in the following items to renew expired commercial drivers licenses:

• The renewal application you receive in the mail
• A printed confirmation notice of self-certification with DMV. You must self-certify through the DMV website.
• Current commercial drivers license, if unavailable you must provide other form of identification.
• Valid DOT medical certificate, if the CT DMV does not have your updated medical card on file.
• Payment for the required fees and taxes.

If your driver’s license has been expired for two or more years, you must retake the DMV exams.

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Connecticut only allows the issuance of duplicate IDs under certain circumstances. You are eligible to replace your ID by mail if you are an active duty military member, you are medically unable to appear in person at the DMV, you are serving a prison sentence or you are currently residing out of state.

To replace your identification card by mail, complete a Request for a Connecticut Driver s License/Identification Card by Mail (Form B-350) and provide payment of the replacement fee in the form of check or money order made payable to “DMV.” You can also pay by credit card. Send the application and the payment to:

Department of Motor Vehicles

60 State Street

Wethersfield, CT 06109

The replacement ID will be mailed to the address you provide in the application.

For more information: How to Apply for a Connecticut Identification Card

Yes, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a CDIP. If you wish to haul hazardous materials or drive outside of Connecticut, you must be at least 21 years of age. You must also be in possession of a valid CT drivers license and self-certify through the DMV website prior to visiting your local DMV office.

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

To be able to obtain a motorcycle license endorsement in Connecticut, you must be in possession of a valid drivers license. You can apply for a CT driving license and motorcycle license at the age of 16. Bear in mind that certain restrictions apply depending on your age. For instance, motorcycle riders who are 16 or 17 years of age cannot carry passengers in the first six months after obtaining their permit.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

These are the following CDL endorsements commercial drivers can get:

• H endorsement: Hazardous Material
• T endorsement: Towing a Double or Triple Trailer
• S endorsement: School Bus
• N endorsement: Liquid Bulk/Tank Cargo
• P endorsement: Passenger/Transportation

If you wish to have additional endorsements added to your license, you must pass a test for each endorsement you apply for. Commercial drivers license endorsement tests have 10 questions each. You need to answer eight questions correctly to pass the test. There might be additional requirements, particularly if you are transporting passengers or hazardous material. Check with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles for more details on specific requirements.

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

The fee to obtain a new ID card from the DMV is $22.50. The same fee applies if you exchange your existing CT driving license or learners permit for a non-driver photo ID and when renewing your expired identification card. The fee to replace a lost or stolen ID card is $30.

Note that the photo ID fee and renewal fee is waived if the applicant is a homeless person or a blind veteran.

For more information: How to Apply for a Connecticut Identification Card

There are several restrictions in place you must mind while holding your CT learning permit. During the first six months you are not allowed to have any passengers in the vehicle apart from your driving instructor or a parent/guardian who is older than 20 and has had a drivers license for over 4 years. You are allowed to drive members of your immediate family in the second six months of obtaining your CT permit to drive.

Furthermore, you are only allowed to drive between the hours of 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. (unless you are traveling for employment, school, religious activities or a medical necessity) and you are not allowed to use a cell-phone or any type of mobile electronic device while driving.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

To obtain a license to drive commercial vehicles, you must comply with the Federal guidelines imposed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This means obtaining and keeping a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate.

To apply for a commercial drivers license, present either an Examination to Determine Physical Condition of Driver form or a US DOT Medical Examiner’s Physical Examination Form CO730, which must be completed and signed by a licensed medical professional. The forms cannot be older than two years.

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Minors with a CT learners permit will have their permits suspended if convicted for DUI/DWI as well as for violating their permit restrictions, speeding or reckless driving. Suspensions on your learners permit range from 48 hours to six years. The law enforcement officer who pulls you over will inform you of the severity of your traffic violations and how to reinstate suspended drivers license credentials.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

The Connecticut DMV issues Class M endorsements on your current CT drivers license. Having a Class M designation on your driving license allows you to operate a two-or three-wheel motorcycle in Connecticut.

On the other hand, if you have a Class M endorsement and a restriction 3 on your CT license, you are only allowed to operate three-wheeled motorcycles. To remove the 3 restriction from your drivers license, you must pass a state-approved motorcycle safety course on a two-wheel motorcycle.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

You can apply for a CT learners permit as soon as you turn 16. You must do so in person at a Connecticut DMV near you. Keep in mind that learners permit testing is offered by appointment only at DMV Hub Offices, so make to visit the website of the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicle to schedule your appointment before heading out to the Connecticut DMV. The CT DMV also allows online payment of all learners permit fees.

When applying for CT learners permit, visit your local CT DMV and provide the following:

• Two documents as proof of identity, such as:

o US Birth Certificate

o US Passport

• Two documents as proof of residency

o Bill from a bank or mortgage company, utility company

o Bank statement

o Pay stubs

• One document as proof of Social Security Number:

o Social Security card

o W-2 form

• A completed Certificate of Parental Consent (form 2D). This form is only required if your parent/legal guardian is not present when you take your learner’s permit test. It is not required if you are applying for an adult teen drivers permit.
• A completed Non-Commercial Learner Permit and/or Driver License (form R-229).

You also need to pay the applicable fees, if you have not done so through the online service, and pass a vision test and a written DMV test.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

When applying for a motorcycle license in Connecticut, you need to present the following documents:

• Your current CT drivers license, which serves as proof of identity.
• A completed Application for Non-Commercial Driver’s License . You must submit the original of this form in person as photocopies are not accepted.
• A Certificate of Parental Consent (form 2-D), if you are under 18
• Proof of successful completion of a motorcycle safety training course.

Make sure to also provide payment for the licensing and testing fees. Check with your local CT DMV for acceptable methods of payment.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

When getting a motorcycle license, you are required to pass a vision and motorcycle knowledge test. The vision test is administered at the CT DMV Hub Offices.

The knowledge test contains 16 questions based on information provided in the Connecticut Motorcycle Manual and the Connecticut Driver’s Manual. To successfully pass the written drivers test, study the Connecticut Motorcycle Manual. It is also a good idea to take a few practice tests before heading out to take the actual exam.

A driving test is not required in Connecticut as the motorcycle safety training course carries out the skills test.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Connecticut

CDL holders who are caught with a BAC level higher than 0.04 percent or who refuse to take a chemical test, face a drivers license suspension and even a lifetime ban on their driving privileges. The penalties imposed depend on the severity of the offense and the number of times the driver has been convicted of driving while intoxicated.

As of recently, Connecticut no longer allows CMV drivers to enter into state- run programs that prevent DUI/DWI convictions from ending up on a driving history record. This also applies if CDL holders are caught driving under the influence in their own private vehicles.

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

A Connecticut identification card is a legal document that is mainly used by individuals who do not drive but wish to carry an identification document on their person. This is essential as this document can be used for a number of purposes, including to enter government buildings or to present as identification when traveling.

For more information: How to Apply for a Connecticut Identification Card

The DMV knowledge test consist of 25 questions based on information provided in the Connecticut Driver’s Manual. Applicants need 20 correct answers to pass the written test. If you fail the test, you must wait seven days to retake the DMV test. You must also repay the learners permit exam fee.

You are strongly recommended to take a few practice permit tests beforehand, in addition to carefully studying the Driver s Manual.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

When applying for a CT driving permit, you will need to take a vision and written knowledge test. Download a copy of the Drivers Manual to prepare for the test. It is also a good idea to take a few practice tests before heading out to the CT DMV.

In order to take the DMV driving test, you must complete a drivers ed course. Applicants can choose between a state-approved commercial driving school, a secondary/high school drivers education program, home training or a combination of the three.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut

To obtain a CDIP, you must pass a general knowledge test. The written drivers exam consists of 30 questions based on information provided in the Connecticut Commercial Driver s Manual. You need 24 correct answers to pass the test. If you wish to have additional CDL endorsements added to your license, you must pass a specific endorsement test. If you fail the DMV written exam, you must wait until the next business day to retake the test.

After you obtain a Connecticut CDIP, you need to pass a road test to get a CDL. The road skills test consists of three parts: pre-trip inspection, static course and on-the-road/skills test. Failing any part of the drivers test means that you will have to retake the entire road exam again after seven days.

Keep in mind that there might be additional testing, so contact the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles for more details on specific requirements. The best way to prepare for the CT DMV driving test is by studying the Connecticut Commercial Driver s Manual as well as by taking some online practice driving tests beforehand.

For more information: Connecticut Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Your Connecticut identification card is valid for six years. You will receive a renewal notice from the CT Department of Motor Vehicles informing you that your ID card is about to expire. You need to present this notice to renew an expired ID card. Bear in mind that if you have not renewed your ID card in two years or more from the posted expiration date, you will have to apply for a new identification card. This means filling out the application forms and paying the applicable fees.

For more information: How to Apply for a Connecticut Identification Card

You can get a Connecticut identification card at a DMV Hub Office. Keep in mind that not all DMVs in Connecticut offer the same services, so check with the CT DMV near you to find out if that particular location issues new ID cards. Also make sure to check the acceptable methods of payment with your DMV location before heading out.

For more information: How to Apply for a Connecticut Identification Card

If you under 18, you must be accompanied by a parent of legal guardian when taking the DMV test. If your parent/legal guardian is not present when you take your permit test, you must provide a completed and notarized Certificate of Parental Consent (form 2D).

In addition, if you are under 18 years of age, your parent/legal guardian must sign the Application for Non-Commercial Learner Permit and/or Driver License (form R-229).

Bear in mind that if you opt for at-home drivers training, your parent/guardian must also provide a completed Proof of Parental Training (CS-1 form) certifying that you have attended an eight-hour course on safe driving practices.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Connecticut