Connecticut DMV · Learner's Permit 2026

How to Get Your Connecticut Learner's Permit

A step-by-step guide to getting your Connecticut Learner License and moving through the GDL program to a full driver's license.

📋 Connecticut GDL Program Overview

Connecticut's graduated licensing program for 16- and 17-year-olds is straightforward: a Learner Permit at age 16, a regular driver's license at 16-17 with passenger and curfew restrictions for the first year, and full unrestricted privileges automatically at age 18.

Phase 1 — Learner Permit

Minimum age: 16. Hold for at least 120 days after commercial school driver-ed (or 180 days for home training). Adults 18+ hold for 90 days. Permit valid until license issuance or 2 years.

Phase 2 — Driver License with restrictions

Age 16–17. Restrictions on passengers, curfew (11 PM-5 AM), and complete cell-phone ban — even hands-free. License fee: $84.

Full License

At age 18, all teen-driver passenger and curfew restrictions automatically lift. The all-driver hands-free rule still applies. Confirm renewal frequency at portal.ct.gov/dmv.

🪪 Phase 1 — Getting Your Learner License

Meet Eligibility & Sign Up for the 8-Hour Course

Be at least 16 years old. All first-time drivers — regardless of age — must complete the 8-hour Safe Driving Practices course at a Connecticut commercial driving school. 16-17 year-olds also need a parent/guardian to complete 2 hours of mandatory parent training.

Schedule Your Knowledge Test Online

Visit portal.ct.gov/dmv to schedule a knowledge test appointment at any Connecticut DMV branch office.

Gather Your Documents

Bring all required documents to your appointment. Confirm the current accepted-ID list at portal.ct.gov/dmv before your visit.

Proof of identity (passport, certified birth certificate, etc.)
Social Security card or other proof of SSN
Proof of Connecticut residency (utility bill, bank statement, lease)
Under 18: parent/guardian signature on the permit application + 2-hour parent training certificate
Proof of completing the 8-hour Safe Driving Practices course

Pass the Vision Exam & Knowledge Test

A vision exam will be given. Pass the knowledge test with at least 80% (20 correct out of 25 questions).

Pay the Fee

Pay all required DMV fees (set by DMV — confirm at portal.ct.gov/dmv). Accepted forms of payment at branch offices: cash, money order, personal check, debit/credit card, or bank check. After approval, DMV will mail your photo learner's permit.

📜 Phase 1 Driving Rules (Learner License)

While Holding a Connecticut Learner License

Supervisor: a licensed driving instructor OR a qualified trainer (at least 20 years old, valid license held continuously for 4+ years, no suspension in that period). Must sit in the front passenger seat and be ready to take over.
Drivers under 18 may not use any cell phone or mobile electronic device while driving — even hands-free.
16- and 17-year-old learner's permit holders are not subject to a curfew while driving with the required supervisor; the 11 PM-5 AM curfew applies after they receive their license.
Hold the permit at least 120 days (after commercial/secondary school driver-ed) or 180 days (home training) before the road test. Adults 18+: at least 90 days.

🚗 Phase 2 — Getting Your Provisional License

Meet Phase 1 Requirements

Hold your Learner Permit for the required period (120 days commercial school / 180 days home / 90 days adults 18+). Complete at least 40 hours of behind-the-wheel, on-road training and the 8-hour Safe Driving Practices course.

Verify Course Completion (CS-1 form)

Bring your Course Completion Certificate (form CS-1) to the road test. 16-17 year-olds also need proof their parent/guardian completed the 2-hour mandatory parent training. Home-trained applicants need an additional CS-1a form.

Pass the Driving Exam at DMV

Bring a vehicle that is mechanically safe, properly registered, and insured. The DMV examiner evaluates: seat/mirror/seatbelt setup, response to traffic signs and signals, signaling, yielding right-of-way, response to emergency vehicles, parking, basic driving maneuvers, and other directed maneuvers. License fee: $84 paid after passing.

📋 Phase 2 Restrictions (Provisional License)

While Holding a Connecticut Provisional License (Phase 2)

First 6 months after licensing: no passengers except a licensed driving instructor, parents/legal guardian, or one qualifying trainer (20+, 4+ years license).
Curfew 11 PM to 5 AM (16-17 only). Exceptions: employment, school, religious activities, medical necessity, or assigned Safe Ride Program driver.
Drivers under 18: no cell phone or mobile electronic device while driving — even hands-free. First violation = 30-day license suspension + $175 restoration fee.
Months 7-12: in addition to the first-6-month list, immediate family members may also ride along.

🗓️ After Age 18 — Full License

Full Driver License — Unrestricted

All teen-driver passenger and curfew restrictions automatically end at age 18
Connecticut driver's license fee: $84. License renewal frequency is set by DMV — confirm at portal.ct.gov/dmv
Adult applicants (18+) who have not previously held a license in Connecticut or another state must complete the 8-hour Safe Driving Practices course and hold the learner's permit for at least 90 days before the road test
Update your address with DMV when you move; a change-of-address form can also update voter registration. Confirm renewal frequency and channels at portal.ct.gov/dmv

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