Connecticut Drivers License
If you plan on driving a vehicle on Connecticut roads, you will need to obtain a Connecticut drivers license. Choosing the right type of a drivers license should be your first step.
Connecticut Driver License Types
At the moment, you can choose between the following types of drivers licenses:
- Class D. Regular drivers license which will be sufficient for most of the drivers out there.
- Motorcycle License. Not really a license and is issued as an endorsement to the regular class D drivers license. Allows for operation of motorcycles.
- Commercial License, CDL.
For most of us drivers out there, class D license is all we need, as we will not be operating any extra-large vehicles or heavy machinery. However, if you plan to make driving your living, you may want to look into one of the commercial driver licenses.
Graduated Drivers License
When it comes to traffic safety, rest assured that the Connecticut DMV is on top of everything, with one of the most thorough graduated drivers license programs. The program is there to ensure that all drivers receive proper education before they get on the road. License applicants under 18 years of age will be required to complete one of the Connecticut drivers education classes and at least 40 hours of supervised driving. Applicants who are already over 18 will have to go through a shorter version of the program, completing just the 8 hour safety class.
Permit Test
Just like everywhere else, Connecticut learners permit is your first step towards obtaining a license. However, before the DMV will issue you with the permit, you will be required to prove that you know the rules and pass the Connecticut permit test at one of the testing sites.
If you already took a drivers ed class, then you're probably well prepared for the test. Those who have not taken the class will need to study with the Connecticut drivers manual. You should also check out the practice tests just to make sure that you know what to expect at the DMV office.
Once you pass the exam at the DMV, you are issued with the learners permit that allows you to operate a vehicle while being supervised by a more experienced licensed driver. Under no conditions are you allowed to drive on your own.
Drivers License Test
Once you gain enough driving experience, you may take your Connecticut driver's license test and apply for your actual drivers license. You will need to provide a vehicle for the test, you will also be required to present proof of insurance.
The driving exam is given on the appointment-only basis and you may want to schedule your exam in advance, especially if you plan on taking it during summer, which is usually the busiest time for the department.
Once you pass your drivers license test, the DMV will issue you with your official Connecticut driver license.
