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  • 16Youngest age for a learner's permitp. 5
  • 20 of 25Right answers to pass the knowledge testp. 5
  • 120–180 daysPermit time before a teen's road testp. 6
  • 40 hoursBehind-the-wheel practice for teensp. 7

Step by step

  1. Finish the Work Zone Safety Course

    Complete the free online Connecticut Work Zone Safety Course and print the certificate; it is required before the knowledge test. (Connecticut DMV: Take the knowledge and vision test)

  2. Gather your documents

    Bring these to your appointment:

    • The completed permit and license application (form R-229)
    • Acceptable proof of identity
    • A certificate of parental consent (form 2-D) if a parent or guardian can't come with you
    • Your Work Zone Safety Course certificate
    • Your glasses or contact lenses if you wear them

    (Connecticut DMV: Get a driver's license for a teenager)

  3. Book and pass the knowledge and vision tests

    Schedule the test online. At the DMV office you need 20 of 25 questions right and at least 20/40 vision, with or without glasses. (Connecticut Driver's Manual, p. 5)

Fees and the full list of accepted documents change from time to time, so check them on the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles website before you go.

Rules while you have a learner's permit

  • Carry the permit whenever you drive, with your trainer in the front passenger seat ready to take over. (Connecticut Driver's Manual, p. 4–5)
  • At 16 or 17, no passengers except a licensed instructor or one qualified trainer (20 or older, four years licensed); parents may come along. (Connecticut Driver's Manual, p. 6)
  • No cell phone or mobile electronic device at all, even hands-free. (Connecticut Driver's Manual, p. 8)
  • No more passengers than there are seat belts. (Connecticut Driver's Manual, p. 8)

If you don't pass

After a failed knowledge test, wait seven days and pay the exam fee again before you retest. (Connecticut DMV: Take the knowledge and vision test)

What comes next

Teens finish driver education and the parent class, then take the road test 120 days (school-trained) or 180 days (home-trained) after the permit; adults hold the permit 90 days and take an 8-hour safe driving course first. (Connecticut Driver's Manual, p. 6–7)

Ready for the knowledge test?Free Connecticut practice exam: 25 questions, 20 to pass.

This guide is a free learning aid based on the Connecticut Driver's Manual (Revised March 2023), not official advice. Rules, documents and fees can change: always confirm with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles before you go. Page numbers are the ones printed on the handbook pages; tap one to open the official PDF at that page. A PDF viewer counts the cover too, so its page numbers run 2 higher.