Connecticut Driving Laws for Seniors and Older Drivers

Learn about driving provisions and special programs focused on keeping both Connecticut's older drivers and roadways safe.

Updated By , Attorney · University of Arkansas School of Law

While the myriad rules and regulations enforced by the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) apply to drivers of all ages and stages, the state imposes some special requirements and restrictions on older drivers.

Connecticut state rules are explained in more detail below, but a few of them focus on identifying and handling older drivers who may have become unsafe.

Specifically, Connecticut:

  • requires drivers age 65 and older to renew their licenses in person every two years, and
  • accepts written reports about unsafe driving concerns from law enforcement, physicians, and anyone with personal knowledge of the driver's capabilities.

Connecticut License Renewal Rules for Older Drivers

Drivers age 65 and older must renew in person every two years; those younger need to renew every six years. Individuals with a major medical condition may submit a request for license renewal by mail; they must first contact the DMV at 860-263-5148 and ask for a review of their situation.

Vision test: Required if a physician or DMV personnel consider it necessary.

Written test: Required at in-person renewal if license has been expired for two or more years. May be required if the DMV determines there is an impairment that may affect a person's ability to drive safely.

Road test: Required if a license has been expired for two or more years. May be required if the DMV determines there is an impairment that may affect a person's ability to drive safely.

Possible License Restrictions

As part of the Graduated Driver's License Program, the DMV can place restrictions on a driver's license if his or her abilities have changed since the license was initially issued. The most common restriction for older drivers is to require glasses or corrective contact lenses.

Other common restrictions include:

  • no nighttime driving
  • no freeway driving
  • driving only vehicles with automatic transmission
  • driving a vehicle with an additional external mirror
  • driver must wear hearing aid, and
  • special controls or equipment in the vehicle.

For more information about the Graduated Driver's License Program, contact:

Department of Motor Vehicles
Medical Qualifications Unit
60 State Street
Wethersfield, CT 06161
860-263-5223

How to Request an Unsafe Driver Investigation in Connecticut

The Connecticut DMV accepts requests to review an individual's driving qualifications from law enforcement personnel, physicians, or anyone with personal knowledge of the driver's capabilities. The requests must be made in writing and submitted to the Connecticut DMV's Driver Services. For more about the information required in a specific situation, call 860-263-5723.

Reporting Requirements for Doctors

A licensed physician in Connecticut may report to the DMV in writing the name, age, and address of any person diagnosed to have any chronic health problem, which in his or her judgment will significantly affect the person's ability to safely operate a vehicle.

How to Get a License Reinstated

The DMV processes correspondence and written requests for license reinstatements through:

Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver Services Division
60 State Street
Wethersfield, CT 06161

For more information on getting a license restored, call 860-263-5720.

How to Get Parking Placards or License Plates for a Driver with a Disability

Parking placards and license plates can be issued to drivers with impaired mobility if a licensed physician, advanced practice registered nurse, physician's assistant, ophthalmologist, optometrist, or member of the Connecticut Board of Education and Services for the Blind certifies the condition.

Steps required to obtain a disabled parking permit or license plate are:

  • Complete and sign a Special Permit Application and Impairment Certificate.
  • Have a licensed physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician's assistant, or, in case of visual impairment, an ophthalmologist, optometrist, or member of the Connecticut Board of Education and Services for the Blind complete Part B of the application.
  • Include a fee of $5 if the application is for a temporary permit; permanent plates and placards are free.
  • Mail the original application to the address on the form.

Learn More About Connecticut Driving Rules for Seniors

The DMV website has a wealth of information for Connecticut drivers, including links to the controlling laws and driver license handbooks in several different languages. Of special interest is the Center for Experienced Drivers, which includes tips for ensuring continuing safety and links to many resources for older drivers and their families.

Where to Find a Lawyer for Help

You can use Nolo's Lawyer Directory to find a local lawyer experienced in representing older people who need help with auto accidents or traffic tickets in Connecticut.

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