What the Connecticut DMV address label is and when you need it

Connecticut's DMV address label is a sticker you can print or request that updates your driver's license or ID card address without replacing the card itself. You stick the label over your old address on the front of your license, and it remains valid until your card expires or you renew it. This is the fastest way to update your address if you do not want to wait for a replacement card in the mail.

You can use the label if you have moved within Connecticut and your license or ID is not damaged, lost, or stolen. The label works for both driver's licenses and non-driver ID cards. Once you explore for the label, the DMV records your new address in their system when ready — the physical label just makes your card match your file.

Key Takeaways

  • Connecticut lets you print an address label from your computer or request one by mail instead of ordering a replacement card.
  • The label costs $5 and you can print it right away through the DMV's online system, or request it by mail for a longer wait.
  • You must have a valid Connecticut driver's license or ID card to use this method — lost or stolen cards require a replacement instead.
  • The address label stays on your card until you renew, so you will need to keep the label attached and readable for the entire time.

How to print your address label online

The fastest route is to print the label yourself through the Connecticut DMV website. Go to ct.gov/dmv, find the address change section, and select the option to print a label. You will need your driver's license or ID number, your date of birth, and your new address. The system will generate a PDF label that you print on regular paper or label stock.

Once you print the label, cut it out carefully and stick it over the address on the front of your card. Make sure the label is smooth and flat so it does not peel off. The label should cover your old address completely but not cover your photo, name, or license number. Pay the $5 fee online at the same time you print the label — you can use a credit or debit card.

Requesting a label by mail if you cannot print online

If you do not have a printer or prefer to request the label by mail, you can send a written request to the Connecticut DMV. Include your current driver's license or ID number, your full name, your old address, your new address, and a check or money order for $5 made out to the State of Connecticut. Mail it to the DMV address listed on the ct.gov/dmv website.

The DMV will mail the label to your new address. This takes longer than printing it yourself — usually two to three weeks depending on mail delivery. During that time, your address is already updated in the DMV system, so you are legal to drive. The label is just a physical update to match your card to your file.

When you cannot use an address label

If your license or ID card is damaged, lost, or stolen, you cannot use a label. You must order a replacement card instead, which costs more and takes longer. The same applies if your name has changed — a label only updates your address, not your name or other information on the card.

If you have moved out of Connecticut, you will need to get a license or ID from your new state instead. Connecticut's address label only works for moves within the state. If you are moving to another state, contact that state's DMV to find out what you need to do.

What happens after you explore for the label

Once you pay the $5 fee and submit your request, the DMV updates your address in their system right away. If you printed the label online, you have it when ready. If you requested it by mail, you will receive it at your new address within a few weeks.

Your license or ID remains valid while you wait for the label. When the label arrives, attach it to your card and keep it there. The label is now your official address proof until you renew your license or ID. If the label peels off or becomes unreadable, you can request a replacement label for another $5.

Renewing your license or ID after using an address label

When your license or ID is due to expire, you will renew it through the normal renewal process. At that time, you do not need the label anymore — your new card will have your current address printed on it. You can remove the label before you renew, or leave it on; either way, the renewal will issue a fresh card with the correct address.

If you move again before your card expires, you can request another address label for the same $5 fee. There is no limit to how many labels you can use on a single card, though after two or three labels the card can start to look worn. At that point, ordering a replacement card might be cleaner, though it costs more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an address label if I just got my license?

Yes, as long as your license is valid and not damaged. The label works on new licenses the same way it works on older ones. You still pay $5 and follow the same process to print or request it.

What if the label falls off my card?

Request a replacement label for another $5. You can print it online or request it by mail the same way you did the first time. Your address is still correct in the DMV system, so you are legal to drive even if the label is missing — the label is just a physical update to your card.

Do I need to tell my insurance company about the address change?

Yes, but that is separate from the DMV address label. Contact your insurance company directly to update your address with them. The DMV label only updates your license and the DMV's records, not your insurance information.

Can I use an address label if I moved to Connecticut from another state?

No. If you are new to Connecticut, you need to get a Connecticut driver's license or ID card through the normal process process. The address label is only for people who already have a Connecticut license or ID and are moving within the state.

How long does the address label stay valid?

The label stays valid as long as your license or ID card is valid. When your card expires, you renew it and get a new card with your current address printed on it. You do not need to replace the label when you renew — the new card replaces both the old card and the label.