Updated on July 15, 2021
The Connecticut DMV has a few definitions regarding vehicles when it comes to registering for the first time. For example, for a vehicle that’s 20 years old or more, you don’t need a certificate of title to register it, just the previous registration from the last owner. An over two-decade model is considered a classic for first-time registration. Once you’ve established residency in the Constitution State, you have 60 days to transfer your vehicle registration to Connecticut.  For out-of-state vehicles, emissions test or VIN check is needed depending on the age of the vehicle. Continue reading for more information about Connecticut tags.

Connecticut Vehicle Registration Renewal Guide

How to Renew A Car Registration In Connecticut

The state of Connecticut requires that you renew your vehicle registration every 2 years. If you are over the age of 65 you may elect to renew your registration each year, which will result in lower fees.

The Connecticut DMV will send out a renewal notice about 60 days before your current registration is due to expire. This notice will include the following:

• Registration Renewal fee.
• Deadline.
• Emissions test requirements.
• Notification of delinquency issues.
• A new registration certificate, which is located in the middle of the notice (some have complained this is easy to miss, so make sure that you do not throw it away).

Connecticut Emissions Test Requirements

Do I need an emissions test to renew my registration in Connecticut?

If your vehicle requires an emissions test you will receive a testing notification card before your renewal date. The following vehicles do not require testing:

• Vehicles manufactured in the last 4 years.
• Vehicles made before 1989.
• Full electric vehicles.
• Farm vehicles.
• Motorcycles.
• Vehicles that weigh more than 1001 pounds.

Renewing Your Registration In Person

To renew your registration in person you will need to have the following:

• Current vehicle registration.
• Your current driver’s license.
• Payment ready.

Connecticut Online Registration Renewal Options

To renew your vehicle registration online you will need a PIN that is on your notice. You cannot have a registration that is expired or suspended, you cannot have any delinquent taxes or parking tickets, you must have your current address on file and have valid auto insurance and proof that you passed your emissions test.

How to Replace a Lost Vehicle Registration in Connecticut

Do you need to know how to replace a vehicle registration in CT? You have come to the right place. We’re going to save you the headache of searching through those clunky government websites and provide you all the info you need to get the job done.

In Connecticut, your vehicle registration and drivers license are issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles. You can find almost any answer on their website or by giving them a call at 800-842-8222.

You may also email them by following the directions on this page.

Replacement Registration vs. Registration Renewal

What’s the difference between renewing my vehicle registration and replacement registration?

A renewal is not a replacement vehicle registration. For a renewal, you will pay the regular fee for a two-year sticker. You need a replacement registration if you lose your paper document, license plates, or validation sticker. The fee is lower than a renewal.

Online Services Makes it Easy to Get a Replacement Vehicle Registration

If you are simply missing or have an illegible registration, it is super easy to reprint one using the DMV website.

You just need to supply your name, driver’s license number, and the plate number. You will pay a $20 fee using a credit card and then you can reprint your current registration. No phone calls, waiting, or confusing forms to fill out.

Replacing and Reporting Stolen License Plates In Connecticut

What do I do if my license plates were stolen? Do I need to report them? How do I report stolen license plates in Connecticut?

If one or both of your license plates are stolen, notify the police department immediately and obtain a police report. Bring the remaining plate, the police report, your insurance card, and registration certificate to your local DMV Hub or Limited Service Office with $5.

They will have you fill out the forms E-159 and B-301 and then will give you a new set of plates and a replacement car registration.

Without the police report, it will cost $25 to replace your plates.

Visit a Local Office for Your Replacement Car Registration

If you prefer talking to a real person to replace your registration, you can visit one of the 13 DMV locations across the state able to handle the transaction.

You will need to use either a Hub or Limited Service Office. AAA offices do not office registration services. There should be an office within a reasonable distance no matter what corner of the state you live in.

Connecticut DMV Hours of Operation

When is the Connecticut DMV open for in person registration replacement or renewal appointments?

The CT DMV offices and Limited Service locations are closed on Mondays. The rest of the week the, the CT DMV hours are:

• Tue., Wed., Fri. | 7:45 AM to 4 PM
• Thurs. | 9:15 AM to 5:30 PM
• Sat. | 8 AM to 12:30 PM

If you email the DMV they will typically respond quickly to queries sent between 7:30 AM and 4 PM Monday through Friday.

Replacement Registration Fees In Connecticut

How much does it cost to replace your vehicle registration in Connecticut?

Your replacement registration document will cost $20. Replacement plates or decal cost $25, unless you have a police report declaring them stolen.

The website and the DMV offices only accept Mastercard, VISA, Discovery, and American Express credit or debit cards. They do not accept cash or checks.

Do You want to Replace your CT Plates with a Specialty Plate?

If you always wanted a specialty plate that supports your favorite organization or a vanity plate, you can apply for them using the online portal.You only need your name, driver’s license number and current license plate number. Make sure to use the “Check Compliance” button before filling out the application to save time, money and frustration.

You can’t use obscenities, trademarked names, and a few other blocked combinations on a vanity plate. Expect to pay extra for your plate. The complete fee structure for the CT DMV can be found here.

Do I Really Need to Replace My Damaged Plates Or Registration?

If you think you can avoid getting a replacement car registration because your certificate is just water damaged, think again. If your registration or plates cannot be read by law enforcement, you can be ticketed for failing to display proper tags or providing proper documentation.

Spend the $20 now to save a $100 ticket and insurance fees later.

If you have any other questions about your Connecticut vehicle registration, don’t hesitate to contact the DMV at 800-842-8222 or by emailing them anytime.