How to Get Your Connecticut Learner's Permit (DMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a learner's permit (Class D) through the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a learner's permit (Class D) in Connecticut, you must be at least 16 and apply in person at the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Connecticut's DMV knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving from the Connecticut Driver's Manual. New drivers face strict graduated-licensing passenger rules and a total cell-phone ban until age 18.
Documents to bring to the DMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Completed Application for Non-Commercial Learner Permit and/or Driver License (form R-229)
- Two documents proving identity (such as a passport, birth certificate, or Social Security card combined with a secondary document)
- Proof of your Social Security number
- Two documents from two different sources proving Connecticut residency
- Certificate of Parental Consent (form 2-D), notarized, for applicants under 18 whose parent, legal guardian, or spouse over 18 does not accompany them to the DMV
- Proof of completion of the required driver education/training program for applicants under 18 (classroom instruction plus the eight-hour Safe Driving Practices Course)
The knowledge test
In Connecticut, the knowledge test is taken in person. A 25-question multiple-choice written knowledge test (20 correct answers required to pass) plus a vision screening, taken in person by appointment at a DMV office.
Rehearse with our free Connecticut practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Connecticut Practice Test →Fees
The DMV charges $40 testing fee plus a $19 permit fee for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Connecticut's Graduated Driver Licensing rules for drivers under 18 are strict: for the first six months after licensing, no passengers are allowed except a licensed driving instructor or a parent/legal guardian; during the second six months, immediate family members may also ride. A nighttime driving restriction (generally 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.) also applies to newly licensed 16- and 17-year-olds.
Connecticut permit FAQ
How many questions is the Connecticut permit test?
The DMV knowledge test has about 25 questions, and you need 20 of 25 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Connecticut permit test online?
In Connecticut, the knowledge test is taken in person. A 25-question multiple-choice written knowledge test (20 correct answers required to pass) plus a vision screening, taken in person by appointment at a DMV office.
What do I need to bring to the DMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Connecticut residency, plus anything required for a learner's permit (Class D). Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Connecticut permit?
You can apply for a learner's permit (Class D) at 16 in Connecticut, provided you meet the DMV's other requirements.
How much does a Connecticut permit cost?
The DMV charges $40 testing fee plus a $19 permit fee for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DMV.
What happens if I fail the Connecticut permit test?
If you fail the vision or knowledge test, you must reschedule the test online and pay the testing fee again before retaking it.
Official sources: portal.ct.gov · portal.ct.gov · portal.ct.gov