How to Get Your Driver's License in Connecticut

Last verified: 2026-03

Here is how to get your driver's license in Connecticut. Connecticut uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 18.

GDL Stages in Connecticut

1

Learner's Permit

Age 16+ 4 months minimum

Requirements

  • Pass written knowledge test
  • Pass vision screening
  • Complete 8-hour safe driving practices course
  • Parental consent if under 18

Restrictions

  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 20 or older with 4+ years experience
2

Intermediate License

Age 16.33+ 20 months minimum

Requirements

  • Hold learner's permit for at least 120 days
  • Complete 40 hours supervised driving including 10 at night
  • Pass road skills test

Restrictions

  • No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. for first 12 months
  • No passengers other than parents or driving instructor for first 6 months; one passenger for next 6 months
3

Full Unrestricted License

Age 18+

Requirements

  • Turn 18 or hold intermediate license for required period
  • No license suspensions

Restricted License Rules

  • No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. during the first 12 months of the intermediate license.
  • For the first 6 months, no passengers except parents or a driving instructor. For months 7 through 12, only 1 passenger is allowed.

How restrictions lift: Passenger and night restrictions lift in phases and are fully removed at age 18.

Road Test Overview

What Is Tested

  • Vehicle control
  • Turning and lane changes
  • Parking
  • Obeying traffic signals and signs
  • Speed management
  • Yielding right of way

Adult Licensing Pathway

If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older may take the knowledge and road tests without completing the graduated licensing program.

Connecticut-Specific Information

Connecticut phases in passenger privileges gradually over the first year of the intermediate license, starting with zero non-family passengers for 6 months and then allowing one. Connecticut also requires an 8-hour safe driving course before a permit can be issued.

Frequently Asked Questions

You must be at least 18 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Connecticut.

Connecticut uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License, Full Unrestricted License.

  • No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. during the first 12 months of the intermediate license.
  • For the first 6 months, no passengers except parents or a driving instructor. For months 7 through 12, only 1 passenger is allowed.

Adults age 18 and older in Connecticut can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older may take the knowledge and road tests without completing the graduated licensing program.

Need your permit first?

Start with the learner's permit before your full license.

Connecticut learner's permit guide

Check drivers ed requirements

Find out if drivers ed is required in Connecticut.

Connecticut drivers ed requirements

Prefer to learn online?

Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.

View Online Courses

This information is based on Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles website for the most current information.