Vehicle registration requirements - Connecticut

License plate display

When a single plate is issued, it must be displayed on the rear of the vehicle. If two plates are issued, they must be displayed on the front and the rear of the vehicle.

International Registration Plan

Connecticut is a member of the International Registration Plan (IRP). The IRP is a base state system for vehicle registration fees allowing a carrier to apply for vehicle registration and pay fees to a single jurisdiction.

As a member state, Connecticut requires all commercial vehicles to apply for the IRP, or to get a special permit if:

• Your vehicle travels to another IRP jurisdiction, and
• Your vehicle has a gross weight or combined gross weight in excess of 26,000 pounds, or at least three axles combined.

Qualified motor vehicles from another IRP jurisdiction need a valid cab card (registration certificate) or a valid trip permit prior to entering Connecticut.

Commercial vehicles that are exempt from the IRP include:

• Government-owned vehicles;
• Vehicles displaying a restricted plate, such as dealer, repair, wrecker, antique, transporter, or farm;
• City pick-up and delivery vehicles; and
• Recreational vehicles.

Temporary permit: Temporary commercial registration is available for commercial vehicles that need an emissions test, a vehicle identification number (VIN) verification, or other inspection. A 10-day temporary commercial registration for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 6,000 pounds or less is $27. A 10-day temporary commercial registration for vehicles with a GVWR of 6,000 or more is $49.

Hunter's or unladen weight permit: A hunter's permit is a 20-day temporary permit issued to an owner/operator who has terminated a lease and has to surrender his apportioned plate/cab card to the carrier. The permit allows the operation of a vehicle on the highways, traveling empty, for the purpose of locating a new job.

Agency: Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles.

Fees: Payment of fees for new accounts or renewals need to be made in guaranteed funds, such as a certified check, bank check, or money order. There is no commercial credit if the vehicles are previously registered with commercial plates.