If you have a current out-of-state, commercial driver’s license (CDL), you’re required to apply for a Connecticut CDL within 30 days of your residency in Connecticut.
If your out-of-state CDL license is lost, you can apply for a duplicate through your prior state. If you’re unable to get a duplicate there, you can re-test in Connecticut to get your CDL.
You can usually get a Connecticut CDL of equal class without testing. Exceptions include the school bus endorsement (“S”) and hazardous material (hazmat) endorsement ("H”).
To complete the process, make an appointment and present these documents:
1. Your current out-of-state CDL
A CDL isn’t issued if the operator’s privileges are suspended in any state. A driving history of your current out-of-state CDL is not acceptable. You need to surrender your out-of-state license.
- Note: A CDL from Puerto Rico cannot be transferred to Connecticut. To get your Connecticut CDL license, you can downgrade to a Class D license and go through all of the testing/permit requirements.
2. Your certified birth certificate or valid passport
Hospital birth certificate or photocopies aren’t accepted. Please see more detailed information on acceptable forms of identification.
- Note: Hospital-issued and Puerto Rico-issued documents prior to July 1, 2010, are no longer acceptable. A U.S. birth certificate with foreign place of birth must also be accompanied by a U.S. passport or passport card, or certificate of citizenship.
3. Your Social Security card
Bring your social security card (laminated or metal cards are not accepted) or your most recent W-2 form.
4. Verification of Connecticut resident address
The DMV requires two forms of address verification like a mortgage statement, bank statement, or utility bill. A post office box address is not acceptable.
5. Medical certification with the DMV
Bring a current, legible, unexpired medical certificate completed by a Certified Medical Examiner.
6. Application for Commercial driver’s license (R-229a).
Request this form to be mailed to you.
7. Self-certification with DMV
You need to have a self-certification status in your previous state of record before you can apply to transfer your out-of-state CDL. Connecticut CDL holders may self-certify online.
8. Application fee
The fee for a CDL Change State of Record is $70 or $87.50, determined by the license duration. Visit acceptable forms of payment at DMV office locations.
Note:
If you are not a U.S. citizen, proof of legal status in this country is required.
Once all documentation is submitted, you can take your vision test.
You don’t receive a permanent CDL while at a DMV office. It will arrive through the mail within 20 business days. You can keep your expiring license or ID and will receive a temporary paper card at your appointment. For more on this, please contact Central Issuance.
After you visit an office, you can track the delivery of your new card.