Driver Training Program

CDL HOLDERS: As of June 16, 2025, DMV will no longer accept a paper medical certificate. Your certificate will be sent electronically to DMV. Learn more here.

SMISHING SCAM ALERT: We have been informed that some residents are receiving fraudulent text messages and phone calls. Please be advised that the CT DMV does NOT contact residents regarding motor vehicle related violations.

WALK-IN SERVICES: Walk-in services are offered at all our office locations, except for Cheshire, Putnam, and Stamford. However, please note that walk-in availability is strictly limited and depends on our current capacity. To avoid waiting, we strongly recommend booking an appointment. We’ll do our best to fit you in, but walk-ins aren’t guaranteed. Service options also differ by location. Click here to learn more.

Apply for an instructor’s license

To apply for a commercial driving instructor’s license:

Complete the application process (we’ll call you once the paperwork is approved)
Pass the required exams
Pay the licensing fee

For more details, review the application checklist below.

Renew an instructor’s license

To renew a driving instructor license, gather the following required documents:

Completed Attestation of Criminal History Record Check
Completed application for a driver training instructor's license (Form R-7A)
License renewal fee: $100
Related paperwork, if applicable: medical examiner’s certificate form (Form MCSA-5876) completed by a physician
Authorization for DCF CPS background check (Form DCF-3031)

The above forms must be submitted to the DMV 45 days prior to the expiration of your Driving School License. Failure to submit all the above documentation by your driving school expiration will result in a $100 late fee.

Mail the form and payment to DMV to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver Education & Testing Unit
60 State Street
Wethersfield, CT 06161

Checklist
Driver education unit

To start
Additional documents
Next steps
Fees

To start

Review the laws related to commercial driving instructor licensing:

Connecticut General Statutes (Title 14-68 through 14-78)
Regulations of State Agencies (Section 14-78-1 through -14-78-48)

Additional documents

Once the DMV receives your documents, including those listed under additional requirements, we send an email to the email you provide on your application with instructions on how to apply for a criminal background check. Failure to complete these forms causes a delay in the processing of your application.

Completed application for a driver training instructor's license (Form R-7A).
Confirmation of examination to determine physical condition of the driver per medical examiner’s certificate form (Form MCSA-5876), completed by a licensed physician.
Driver school instructor training schedule (Form R-280).
- Note: The driver education unit must receive the R-280 form before you start the course for it to be valid.
Certificate for driving instructor training (Form R-230), which shows you have completed an approved 45-hour instructor training course.
Copy of your high school diploma or equivalent.
Authorization for DCF CPS background check (Form DCF-3031)
A fingerprint-supported background check.
State fingerprint forms (DPS-125C) for each owner, officer, or manager of proposed school. Fingerprinting is performed at any local/state police department or the state’s Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection headquarters.
All individuals applying must complete the FBI Privacy Act Statement

Next steps

Once your application is accepted, you are contacted by the DMV. You can then be scheduled to take a 50-question test and an instructor proficiency test.

Fees

Fees are paid once your application is approved and you have passed the tests:

Two-year commercial driving instructor license: $100

Contact info

Hours of Operation:
Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Phone:
860-263-5097

Fax:
860-263-5514

Mailing Address:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Driver Education Unit
60 State Street
Wethersfield, CT 06161

Adaptive Equipment Driver Training