Veterans Stand Down

Veterans Stand Down 2026 Was a Triumph!

A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who came together to make Veterans Stand Down 2026 such a success! Your dedication, generosity, and commitment helped connect veterans with valuable resources, services, and support. Together, we made a meaningful difference in the lives of those who served. 🇺🇸

Thank you for making this veteran resource fair a true success!

The DVA continues our commitment to serving Connecticut’s Veterans, Active Duty, National Guard and Reserve military personnel, and their immediate families by providing this “one stop” access to a range of programs and services offered by state and federal agencies, Veterans organizations, and community-based non-profits at these regional sites across the State.

Connecticut Veterans can renew their driver's licenses or state ID cards for free at Stand Down

How to Add a Veteran Indicator to Your Connecticut Driver’s License or ID Card

All Connecticut veterans with qualifying service are eligible to receive the Veteran Flag Identifier on their driver’s license or identity card.

Follow these steps to get a veteran’s indicator on your driver’s license or identity card:

Step 1: Check your eligibility

• Qualifying honorable active military service (not including initial entry training) DD-214 or pre-1950 WG AGO Discharge certificate.
• Previous honorable service in a reserve component.
• A valid State of Connecticut license or identity card  

Step 2: Gather what you need

• DD-214 or pre-1950 WG AGO Discharge certificate showing qualifying military service with an honorable or under honorable conditions discharge.
• If the name on the DD-214 is different from the veteran’s legal name, proof of name change is required, i.e., court decree, marriage certificate etc.
• Completed - CTDVA Form VL1 (PDF)

Request a copy of your DD 214 online https://www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

Get Your Real ID  https://portal.ct.gov/dmv/licenses-permits-ids/get-real-id?language=en_US