Getting a Connecticut learner's permit

Minimum age for a learner's permit

16 (an adult learner's permit applies from age 18).Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Permit and testing fees

$19 for the learner's permit plus a $40 testing fee that covers the vision, knowledge and road tests. Both are paid online when you book.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Parental consent

Applicants under 18 need a parent or guardian at the knowledge test; if they can't come, bring a signed Certificate of Parental Consent (form 2-D).Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

How long the permit is valid

Until you get your license, or 2 years from the date it was issued, whichever comes first.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Permit holding period (age 16-17)

At least 120 days if you took commercial or high-school driver training, or 180 days if you trained at home with a Qualified Trainer.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Permit holding period (18 and older)

At least 90 days before the road test, unless you are exempt (for example, you held a license before).Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Learner's permit restrictions (16-17)

No passengers except a parent, legal guardian or qualified trainer, and no cell phone use at all, even hands-free.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Work Zone Safety Course

Since January 1, 2026, every permit applicant must first complete the free online Connecticut Work Zone Safety Course (under an hour) and bring the certificate.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Knowledge test questions

25 questions, based on the Connecticut driver's manual.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Passing score

20 of 25 correct (80%).Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

If you fail the knowledge test

Wait 7 days and pay the $40 testing fee again to rebook. If you fail the vision test you can rebook right away.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Knowledge test languages

On screen in 11 languages: Albanian, Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, English, French, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and Vietnamese. A paper test can be requested in 24 more.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

What to bring to the permit test

Original ID documents from the DMV checklist, a signed Form R-229 application, the Work Zone course certificate, any CT non-driver ID (it is surrendered), and glasses or contacts if needed.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Copies not accepted

Bring original documents; photocopies or faxed copies are rejected.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Appointment needed

Yes. Permit testing is by appointment only at select DMV offices, booked and prepaid online. No office offers walk-ins on Saturdays.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Course for new adult drivers

First-time drivers 18 and older must take an 8-hour Safe Driving Practices course before the road test.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

If you fail the road test

Wait at least 14 days and pay the $40 testing fee again.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

REAL ID documents

Usually a U.S. passport or birth certificate, a Social Security card, and two pieces of mail from different sources dated within 90 days.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Duplicate learner's permit

Same steps as a lost license, but the fee is $19.Source: portal.ct.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

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