Where to report your address change in Connecticut
The Connecticut DMV handles address changes through the Department of Motor Vehicles, which operates both online and in-person. You can change your address for your driver's license, ID card, or vehicle registration separately or together, depending on what documents you hold. Connecticut does not require you to change your address within a specific number of days, but doing so keeps your records current and ensures you receive important notices about registration renewals and violations.
The fastest route is the online system at ct.gov/dmv, where you can update your address for a driver's license or ID card without visiting an office. If you need to change your vehicle registration address, you can do that online as well, though some situations require a visit to a DMV branch. The state operates DMV offices in multiple locations across Connecticut, and you can find the nearest one and check wait times on the website before you go.
Key Takeaways
- Connecticut lets you change your driver's license, ID card, and vehicle registration addresses online through ct.gov/dmv without visiting an office.
- You will need your current license or ID number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to change your address online.
- Vehicle registration address changes can be done online, but if your registration is expired or you have a lien on the vehicle, you may need to visit a DMV office in person.
- Connecticut does not charge a fee to change your address, whether you do it online or at an office.
- If you move out of state, you should change your address before your license or registration expires, or you will need to renew them under your new state's rules.
Changing your driver's license or ID card address online
To change your address online for a Connecticut driver's license or ID card, go to ct.gov/dmv and select the option to update your address. You will need your current license or ID number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm it before you submit. Once you complete the change, you will receive a confirmation number on screen.
After you submit your address change online, Connecticut mails you a new license or ID card with your updated address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit an office, and there is no fee. Your old card remains valid until the new one arrives. If you need your address changed before your card arrives, or if you have questions about the online process, you can call the DMV at 860-263-5700.
Changing your vehicle registration address online
Vehicle registration address changes also happen online at ct.gov/dmv. You will need your vehicle registration number, your date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Enter your new address, confirm it, and submit. You will receive a confirmation number, and Connecticut will mail you an updated registration card within 7 to 10 business days.
Some situations require an in-person visit instead. If your registration has expired, if you have a lien holder on the vehicle, or if you are unsure whether your registration is current, contact the DMV before trying the online system. You can call 860-263-5700 or visit a local DMV office to ask whether you can use the online process. There is no fee to change your registration address.
When you need to visit a DMV office in person
Most address changes can be handled online, but you will need to visit an office if your registration is expired, if you have a lien on your vehicle, or if the online system tells you that your situation requires an in-person visit. You will also need to visit in person if you are changing your address at the same time you renew your license, ID, or registration, or if you need a duplicate card before your new one arrives.
Bring your current license or ID card, your vehicle registration if you are updating that as well, and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or other document showing your name and current address dated within the last 60 days. Find your nearest DMV office and check current wait times at ct.gov/dmv before you go. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to book an appointment online first.
What counts as proof of your new address
Connecticut accepts several documents as proof of your new address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill all work if they show your name and the new address and are dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement, insurance policy, or government letter addressed to you at your new address also counts. You do not need an original — a copy is fine.
If you have just moved and do not yet have a document in your name at the new address, ask your landlord, utility company, or bank for a letter on their letterhead confirming your new address. Some DMV offices will accept a signed statement from a family member or roommate if you explain your situation, though this varies by location. Call your local office at 860-263-5700 before you visit to ask what they will accept in your case.
Scams and safety alerts for address changes
Do not use third-party websites that claim to change your DMV address for you. These sites charge fees for a service the state provides for free. The official Connecticut DMV website is ct.gov/dmv — any other site asking for payment is not legitimate. If you see an ad on social media or in a search result promising to change your address quickly or for a fee, ignore it and go directly to the state website.
Be cautious of emails or texts claiming to be from the DMV asking you to verify your address or personal information. The Connecticut DMV does not contact people by email or text to ask for Social Security numbers, license numbers, or other personal data. If you receive such a message, do not click any links or reply. You can report it to the Connecticut Attorney General's office at ct.gov/ag.
When you visit a DMV office, only conduct your business with staff behind the counter. Do not give your documents or information to anyone else in the office, and do not let anyone take photos of your license or ID. If someone approaches you in the waiting area offering to help you with your paperwork for a fee, that is a scam — report it to office staff when ready.
What happens after you change your address
Once you change your address online or in person, Connecticut updates its records within one business day. Your new license, ID card, or registration card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. During that time, your old card is still valid. You do not need to do anything else — the DMV will not contact you to confirm the change.
If you change your address and then move again before your new card arrives, you can change your address a second time. Go back to ct.gov/dmv or visit an office and update it to your current address. The DMV will mail the card to your most recent address on file. If you move out of state, your Connecticut license and registration remain valid until they expire, but you should change your address before you leave to avoid missing renewal notices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my new card after I change my address?
Connecticut mails your new license, ID card, or registration card within 7 to 10 business days of your address change. Your old card stays valid until the new one arrives, so you can use it during that time. If you need the card sooner, you can visit a DMV office in person to request a duplicate, though this may have a separate fee.
Do I have to change my address if I move within Connecticut?
You do not have to change your address by law, but it is a good idea. If you do not update it, you may miss renewal notices for your license or registration, and you could receive tickets or other notices at your old address. Changing your address takes a few minutes online and is free.
Can I change my address if my license or registration is expired?
If your license or ID card is expired, you can still change your address online. If your vehicle registration is expired, you will need to visit a DMV office in person or renew it at the same time you change your address. Call 860-263-5700 to ask which option works for your situation.
What if I move to another state — do I need to change my Connecticut address first?
No. Your Connecticut license and registration remain valid in other states until they expire. When you move, you will eventually need to get a license and registration in your new state, but you do not have to change your Connecticut address first. However, changing it before you leave ensures you do not miss any final notices from Connecticut.
Is there a fee to change my address with the Connecticut DMV?
No. Changing your address online or in person is free. Do not pay any website or service that claims to change your address for you — the state does this at no cost.