How do I upgrade my Connecticut learner’s permit to a license?

The first step to get a Connecticut driver’s license is getting a learner’s permit.

Once you have your learner’s permit, there are different requirements for drivers age 16 or 17 and for adults when it’s time to upgrade to a driver’s license.

The fee for a new driver’s license is $84. Learn more about acceptable forms of payment.

How to upgrade a learner’s permit to a driver’s license

Steps to upgrade a permit to a driver’s license for drivers age 16 and 17
CT residents who are age 16 or 17 can apply for a driver’s license after you:

• Complete the driver training requirements.
• Hold a learner’s permit for
  • At least 120 days if you complete commercial or secondary driver training
  • At least 180 days if you complete driver training at home with a Qualified Trainer
• Successfully complete the road test

Learn more about how to get a learner’s permit if you are age 16 or 17.

Steps to upgrade a permit to a driver’s license for adults
CT residents who are age 18 or older can apply for a driver’s license after you:

• Hold an adult learner’s permit for at least 90 days prior to taking the road test, unless you qualify for an exemption. Learn more about how to get an adult leader’s permit, including requirements and training.
• Successfully complete the road test.

Transferring your license from another state
If you already have a driver’s license from another U.S. state or territory, Germany, Canada, or France, you can transfer your license to Connecticut without first getting an adult learner’s permit.

Please note: Undocumented individuals age 16 or older can get a drive-only learner’s permit, which can lead to a drive-only license. Learn more about the drive-only permit process.