Key Takeaways
- Primary ID must be a current, government-issued photo ID with signature
- Common primary IDs: driver's license, passport, state ID, military ID
- IDs must be current (not expired) and original documents only
- Foreign passports are acceptable in Connecticut
- Municipal IDs (like New Haven ID) are NOT acceptable as primary ID
Last updated: January 2026
Acceptable Identification Documents
Primary ID Requirements
The primary identification document must be:
- Current (not expired)
- Government-issued (federal or state)
- Contain a photograph
- Contain a written signature
- An original document (no copies)
Commonly Accepted Primary IDs
| ID Type | Issuing Authority | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Driver's License | State DMV | Most common form |
| State-Issued Non-Driver ID | State DMV | For non-drivers |
| U.S. Passport | Federal government | Excellent form of ID |
| Foreign Passport | Foreign government | Acceptable in CT |
| Military ID | Department of Defense | Must have photo and signature |
| Green Card | Federal government | Permanent resident card |
| Pistol Permit | State of Connecticut | If has photo and signature |
Secondary ID Requirements
The second form of identification must contain at least:
- The individual's signature
- Can be from an institution, business, or government
| Acceptable Secondary IDs | Notes |
|---|---|
| Credit/debit card | With signature |
| Employee ID | With signature |
| Student ID | With signature |
| Insurance card | With signature |
| Second government ID | Any with signature |
ID Status Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current | Must not be expired |
| Original | No photocopies or scanned images |
| Legible | Information must be readable |
| Authentic | No apparent alterations or forgery signs |
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following is acceptable as a PRIMARY form of identification in Connecticut?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Can a notary accept a photocopy of a driver's license as identification?
A
B
C
D