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How to Get Your Connecticut Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with CT DMV directly.

Under 18 (Graduated Licensing)

  1. Apply for a learner's permit at 16

    Apply at a Connecticut DMV location with parent or guardian consent. Pass the 25-question knowledge test (80%, 20 correct) and a vision test.

    • Proof of identity and residency
    • Parent or guardian consent

  2. Drive only with a qualifying supervisor

    Your only allowed passenger is a parent, legal guardian, or driving instructor — or a licensed driver at least 20 years old with 4+ years of licensure and no suspensions.

  3. Log 40 hours of supervised driving

    Log at least 40 hours of supervised driving, including 8 hours at night, recorded on a driving log.

  4. Have your parent or guardian complete the required class

    A parent or guardian must complete a 2-hour class on the laws governing drivers under 18 and the risks of teen driving. Skipping this blocks the teen's license until age 18.

    • Parent/guardian class completion certificate

  5. Hold the permit 120 or 180 days

    Hold the permit for 120 days if driver's ed came from a licensed commercial school or your secondary school, or 180 days if you completed home training instead.

  6. Pass the road test and get your license

    Submit your completed driving log, pass the road test, and receive your license.

    • Completed driving log

  7. Follow first-6-month restrictions

    Only an instructor, parent, or the qualifying 20+/4-year licensed adult may be a passenger. No driving 11 p.m.-5 a.m. except for school, work, religious activity, or medical need.

  8. Move into second-6-month restrictions

    Immediate family members become allowed passengers in addition to the earlier group; the curfew and other rules continue unchanged.

18 and Older

  1. Apply for a learner's permit

    Apply at a Connecticut DMV location; the parent-class requirement, driver's-ed-based permit hold, and teen passenger/curfew restrictions apply only to an applicant who starts before turning 18.

  2. Pass the knowledge test

    Pass the same 25-question knowledge test (80%, 20 correct) and a vision test.

    • Proof of identity and residency

  3. Practice and pass the road test

    Practice driving under the terms of your learner's permit, then pass the road test to receive your license.

  4. Receive your full license

    Adult first-time applicants receive a standard, unrestricted license upon passing.

Notes

  • Connecticut's zero-tolerance law flags a BAC of 0.02% or higher for a driver under 21.
  • Violating curfew or passenger restrictions brings a 30-day license suspension and a $175 restoration fee.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process on the official Connecticut DMV website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-22