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Connecticut Driving Tests | CT Driver's License Test

You’ve put a lot of hard work into learning how to drive. Now it’s time to take your license test. The Next Street makes it easy by giving you options to make your testing day more convenient and less stressful

CT Driver’s License Testing Services

You’ve put a lot of hard work into learning how to drive and now it’s time to take your license test. The Next Street makes it easy by giving you options to make your testing day more convenient and less stressful

Options for Connecticut Driving Tests

License Test at The Next Street

$150, plus any DMV test fees

We make it easy to pass your license test! Avoid going to the DMV on test day and book your license test at The Next Street. The DMV agent will come to one of our testing locations and test you in our car. Our Testing Host is on hand to answer any last-minute test day questions.

 

* Per DMV policy, students MUST complete at least one 2-hour driving lesson with us to be eligible for either of our testing options.

DMV fees

The cost of obtaining a driver’s license in Connecticut varies based on the type of license you are applying for. Currently, a learner’s permit costs $19. The fees for a new issue non-commercial driver’s license are $84 for a five and a half – seven year license. The fees for a new issue commercial drivers license are $70 for a three and a half – five year license. A drive only license is $36 and is issued for three years. It is important to note that these fees can change, so it is advisable to check with the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the most current information.

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Connecticut Upcoming Course Schedule

*Start your enrollment now to view all upcoming schedules and offerings available.

Below is a summary of our upcoming class availability. Full classroom schedule details are available during the Online Enrollment process.

Driving Lesson Schedules displayed here are not a guarantee of availability after enrollment, as students are booking in real time. We add new lesson inventory every week.

Current Students can see live schedule availability and book lessons by logging in to the Student Portal. 

Convenient locations to schedule your license test

We offer license test appointments at our convenient locations across the State of Connecticut. Tests run every 15 minutes between 8am and 1pm. The available schedules listed here are not a guarantee of availability, sign up and login to the Student Portal to see live availability and book your license test appointments. 

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Understanding Connecticut’s License Testing Requirements

To obtain a driver’s license in Connecticut, you must meet several requirements and follow a specific process. Firstly, you must be at least 16 years old. If you are under 18, you are required to complete a driver’s education course with an 8-hour safe driving practices course and hold a learner’s permit for at least 120 days before you can take the road test and get your license.

Regardless of age, all applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Complete a Safe Driving Practices Course: This is an 8-hour course conducted at a licensed driving school.
  2. Learner’s Permit: For those under 18, holding a learner’s permit for a minimum of 120 days is mandatory.
  3. Supervised Driving Practice: Accumulate at least 40 hours of supervised driving practice. This includes at least 22 hours of daytime driving and at least two hours of nighttime driving. The remaining hours can be completed with a licensed parent, guardian, or another qualified supervising adult who is at least 20 years old and has held a valid driver’s license for at least four consecutive years.
  4. Vision, Knowledge, and Road Tests: Pass a vision test, a knowledge test, and a road test.
  5. Proof of Identity and Residency: Provide proof of identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States.
  6. Payment of Fees: Pay the required fees for the application, tests, and license issuance.

It’s important to complete all required driving practice and courses at least five days before your scheduled road test appointment. Additionally, the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may require you to provide additional documentation or meet other criteria specific to your situation.

Once you fulfill all these requirements, you will be issued a Connecticut driver’s license. This process ensures new drivers are well-prepared and knowledgeable about safe driving practices before driving independently.

Additional Documentation

Depending on your specific situation, you may need to bring additional documents:

  • Proof of Identity: A valid passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card.
  • Proof of Social Security Number: Your Social Security card, W-2 form, or pay stub.
  • Two Proofs of Connecticut Residency: Utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, or other documents showing your name and current address in Connecticut.
  • Parental Consent Form: If you are under 18 years old, a completed parental consent form signed by your parent or legal guardian.
  • Safe Driving Practices Course Certificate: If you have completed this course, bring the certificate of completion.

Vehicle requirements

You can use your own car for the driving test in Connecticut. However, there are a few requirements that your car must meet:

  1. The car must be registered and insured: Make sure your vehicle is registered with the Connecticut DMV and has a valid insurance policy.
  2. The car must be roadworthy: It must be in good working condition and have functioning headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and other safety features.
  3. The car must be clean and free of debris: Make sure your car is clean and free of clutter or debris that could interfere with the driving test.
  4. The car must have a valid inspection sticker: Your vehicle must have a valid Connecticut inspection sticker.

Before the test, the examiner will inspect your vehicle to ensure it meets these requirements. If your car does not meet these requirements, you will not be able to use it for the driving test and will need to make other arrangements.

One of the biggest benefits of testing with The Next Street is that we will allow you to test in one of our cars. Our cars are guaranteed to meet the vehicle requirements, helping ensure your test can go as smoothly as possible.

Vision requirements 

When you apply for a driver’s license or learner’s permit, you must take a vision test to demonstrate that your vision meets the state’s standards for safe driving. The test will be conducted at a Connecticut DMV office.

The minimum vision requirement for a driver’s license or learner’s permit in Connecticut is 20/40 in at least one eye with or without corrective lenses. If corrective lenses are required to meet this standard, the restriction “B” (corrective lenses) will be added to your license.

If your vision does not meet the minimum requirement, you may be referred to a vision specialist for further evaluation. The specialist will determine if corrective lenses or other treatments can improve your vision to meet the state’s standards for safe driving.

Note that if you wear glasses or contact lenses for the vision test, you must also wear them while driving. If you are caught driving without your corrective lenses and your license has a “B” restriction, you may face penalties, and your license may be suspended.

What to bring to your road test

When applying for a driver’s license in Connecticut, you must come prepared with the necessary documents and materials for your road test appointment.

Required Documents and Items

  • Road Test Appointment Confirmation Page: After successfully scheduling your appointment, bring the confirmation page sent to you via email. You can access this information online using your PIN at any time.
  • Completed Application: A fully completed application for a non-commercial driver’s license (Form R-229). This form can be filled out online or in person at the DMV.
  • Learner’s Permit: You must bring your learner’s permit. If you don’t have it, you can request a duplicate. Without the permit or a duplicate copy, you’ll lose your appointment and need to reschedule and pay another license exam fee. To apply for a duplicate, bring one form of acceptable identification and the associated fee payment.
  • Properly Registered and Insured Vehicle: The vehicle you use for the road test must be properly registered, insured, mechanically safe, and pass an evaluation. Review all the vehicle requirements before the test. When testing with The Next Street, we will provide you with one of our vehicles, which is guaranteed to meet all requirements.
  • Valid Motor Vehicle Registration Certificate: Ensure you have the current registration in the vehicle before leaving home and bring it into the office when you arrive for your test.
  • Connecticut Insurance Card: Proof of insurance must be in the same name as on the registration, except for leased vehicles, which may be in the lessee’s name. Verify you have the current proof of insurance in the vehicle before leaving home and bring it into the office when you arrive for your test.
  • Driver Education Certificate: If you have completed a driver’s education course, your driver education certificate (Form EDEC) issued by a Connecticut-licensed driving school will be sent electronically to the DMV after you successfully complete the training course.

Important Notes

  • Document Authenticity: All documents must be originals or certified copies and in English, or accompanied by an official translation if they are in another language.
  • Payment: Be prepared to pay the required fee for the license. Payment can be made with cash, check, or credit/debit card.
  • Test Preparedness: You may also want to bring a pen or pencil to complete any necessary forms or the written test if required.
Having all these documents and items ready will help facilitate a smooth and efficient road test experience at the Connecticut DMV.

Insurance requirements 

Connecticut has minimum insurance requirements for all licensed drivers and learner’s permit holders. Insurance companies are required to provide you with an insurance identification card for each vehicle. This card must be presented for registration of the car and must always be in the vehicle. If needed, you can also obtain a temporary personal insurance card from your insurance agent. 

To take the road test, you’ll need to have proof of insurance that meets these requirements:

  • Name of the insurance company
  • NAIC#
  • At least one name on the registration must be indicated as a policy owner, policyholder, or insured on the insurance card. If a vehicle is owned by a leasing company, the name of the leasing company or the leaser may be listed.
  • Policy number
  • Effective date of coverage (must be valid when the vehicle is registered) and expiration date (not to exceed one year)
  • Vehicle year, make or model, and complete vehicle identification number (known as “VIN” number)
  • Temporary personal insurance card requirements:
  • Name of the insurance company or agency.

Connecticut law requires that any motor vehicle registration that has not been canceled must have liability insurance. Limits of liability as required by law are as follows (effective January 1, 2018) include:

  • $25,000 bodily injury per person.
  • $50,000 bodily injury per accident.
  • $25,000 property damage per accident.

How to Prepare for Your Road Test

Here are some tips to help you prepare for the driving test in Connecticut:

  1. Practice, Practice, Practice: Before taking the driving test, complete the required 40 hours of driving practice, including practice at night. Practice in various road conditions and situations to build your confidence and experience.
  2. Review the Driver’s Manual: Review the Connecticut Driver’s Manual to refresh your knowledge of driving laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
  3. Know Your Vehicle: Familiarize yourself with the vehicle you will be using for the test, including where all controls are located and how they operate.
  4. Dress Appropriately: Dress comfortably but appropriately for the test. Avoid wearing sandals or shoes with open toes or heels.
  5. Arrive Early: Arrive at the DMV early on your test day to allow time for any last-minute preparations and to help relieve any nerves.
  6. Stay Calm: Take deep breaths and try to remain calm during the test. Listen carefully to the examiner’s instructions and follow them precisely.

Remember, passing the driving test requires careful preparation, knowledge of driving laws and practices, and a calm and confident attitude on test day.

What to Expect During Your Road Test

Once you’ve held your learner’s permit for the required amount of time, completed any required driver training, and applied for a waiver, you may be eligible to take your on-the-road skills test (also known as the “driving test” or “road test”).

The road test assesses your ability to safely drive a vehicle and is the last test you’ll need to pass to receive your driver’s license.

During the road test, the DMV Agent will evaluate:

  • Your knowledge of common driving phrases and commands
  • Your ability to properly adjust the seat, mirror, and seatbelt 
  • Your response to traffic control signs, signaling, road markings, and interaction with other motorists (e.g., yielding right-of-way, response to emergency vehicles, etc.)
  • Your proficiency in basic driving skills, such as turns, backing up, and parking
  • Other driving maneuvers at the direction of the inspector/license agent

New Driver Restrictions

Yes, there are restrictions for new drivers in Connecticut. These restrictions are in place to help ensure the safety of new drivers and other road users. Here are some of the main restrictions:

  • Passenger restrictions: For the first six months after receiving your driver’s license, you are not allowed to have any passengers in the car other than immediate family members. After six months, you can have up to three passengers who are not members of your immediate family.
  • Nighttime driving restrictions: For the first six months, you are not allowed to drive between 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. After six months, you can drive between these hours.
  • Cell phone restrictions: All drivers under 18 are prohibited from using a cell phone or other electronic device while driving, even if it is hands-free.
  • Zero tolerance for alcohol and drugs: For drivers under the age of 21, there is a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol and drugs. This means that any amount of alcohol or drugs in your system can result in a license suspension.

Following these restrictions is essential, as violating them can result in fines, license suspension or revocation, and other penalties.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid during the driving test in Connecticut:

  • Failing to Observe Traffic Signs and Signals: Be sure to pay close attention to all traffic signs and signals, including speed limits, stop signs, and traffic lights.
  • Not Checking Blind Spots: Always check your blind spots before changing lanes or making turns.
  • Not Using Turn Signals: Use turn signals when changing lanes or making turns to let other drivers know your intentions.
  • Not Stopping Completely: Come to a complete stop at all stop signs and red lights before proceeding.
  • Driving Too Slowly or Too Quickly: Drive at a safe and steady speed, obeying posted speed limits and adjusting your speed as necessary for traffic and road conditions.
  • Not Yielding the Right of Way: Yield the right of way to other drivers when necessary, such as when merging onto a highway or turning left at an intersection.
  • Not Maintaining Control of the Vehicle: Keep both hands on the steering wheel and maintain control of the vehicle at all times, avoiding sudden stops, starts, or turns.

Remember, the driving test is designed to assess your ability to drive safely and confidently on the road. You can avoid these common mistakes by staying focused and following safe driving practices.

What Happens If You Fail a Road Test in Connecticut?

If you fail the road test in Connecticut, you must retake it. The process and regulations for retaking the test vary depending on your age.

Retaking the Test for Under 18

If you are under 18, you can retake the test as many times as necessary until you pass. However, you must wait at least 14 days between each attempt. This waiting period will give you ample time to practice and improve your driving skills before your next test.

Retaking the Test for 18 and Older

If you are 18 years old or older, you can retake the test up to two times. If you fail the test twice, you are required to complete a driver training program before you can take the test again. This program addresses any driving deficiencies and better prepares you for a successful road test.

Feedback and Improvement

When you fail the driving test, the examiner will provide you with a score sheet highlighting areas where you need improvement. It’s crucial to use this feedback to practice and focus on the specific skills that need enhancement. Consider taking additional driving lessons with a licensed instructor or practicing with a qualified driver to strengthen your weak areas.

Learner’s Permit Expiration

It’s important to note that your learner’s permit may expire before you pass the road test. If your permit expires, you must apply for a new learner’s permit and start the process again, including passing the knowledge test and paying the associated fees.

Scheduling a Retest

When you feel ready to retake the test, you must schedule another appointment with the Connecticut DMV. Be sure to bring all same required documentation and fees as your initial test. The DMV will mandate a 14-day waiting period before you can retake the test after each failed attempt.

Unlimited Retakes

There is no limit to how many times you can retake the driving test in Connecticut, provided you meet all eligibility requirements and pay the necessary fees. However, it is highly recommended that you take adequate time to prepare and practice before attempting the test again to increase your chances of passing.

Preparing for Success

During the waiting period between tests, it is advisable to practice extensively, focusing on the areas where you previously struggled. You may also find it beneficial to:

  • Review the Connecticut Driver’s Manual thoroughly.
  • Take additional driving lessons with a certified driving instructor.
  • Practice driving in various conditions (e.g., nighttime, adverse weather) to gain more experience.
  • Ensure your vehicle meets all safety and registration requirements for the test.

By thoroughly preparing and addressing the examiner’s feedback, you can improve your driving skills and increase your likelihood of passing the road test on your next attempt.

Ready to Ace Your Road Test? Schedule with The Next Street Today!

At The Next Street, we provide expert driving instruction and personalized guidance to help you succeed. Our certified instructors are dedicated to ensuring you are well-prepared and confident for your road test. Take the next step towards becoming a licensed driver in Connecticut. Schedule your road test with The Next Street and benefit from our comprehensive training programs, flexible scheduling, and supportive learning environment.

Why Choose The Next Street?

  • Expert Instructors: Our experienced instructors provide valuable insights and practical tips to help you pass your test.
  • Personalized Training: Tailored lessons to focus on your specific needs and areas of improvement.
  • Convenient Scheduling: Flexible appointment times to fit your busy lifestyle.
  • Proven Success: High pass rates and positive feedback from our satisfied students.
Your journey to safe and confident driving starts here. Let The Next Street help you achieve your driving goals!
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