Driver Licensing in Vermont

Getting a driver’s license in Vermont is an important step if you want to drive legally. Whether you’re a teen learning to drive for the first time or an adult who just moved to the state, there are certain rules and steps you need to follow. This guide explains who can apply, how the process works, what tests you’ll need to take, and where to find helpful tools to get started.

Who Must Obtain a Vermont Driver’s License?

If you live in Vermont and plan to drive a motor vehicle on public roads, you are required by law to have a valid Vermont driver’s license. Even if you already hold a license from another U.S. state, you must transfer it to Vermont within 60 days of establishing residency. For international drivers, requirements may vary depending on visa status and length of stay, and additional documentation may be required.

General Eligibility Requirements

To apply for any class of Vermont driver’s license, applicants must meet several basic requirements:

Age: You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a standard license. If you are 15, you may apply for a learner’s permit.
Residency: You must be a legal resident of Vermont and provide proof of a permanent address within the state.
Legal Presence and Identity: You must provide acceptable documents showing legal presence in the United States, proof of identity, Social Security number (or a signed declaration of ineligibility), and proof of Vermont residency.
Clean Driving Record: You must not have a suspended or revoked license in any other state when applying or transferring a license.

Acceptable documents include a valid U.S. passport or birth certificate, a Social Security card or tax form, and proof of address such as a utility bill or lease agreement.

Starting with a Learner’s Permit

For individuals under the age of 18 or adults who have never held a driver’s license, the first step is to obtain a learner’s permit. This permit allows you to practice driving under supervision while preparing for the road test.

To get a learner’s permit in Vermont, you must:

Be at least 15 years old
Pass a written knowledge test and a vision screening
Complete the Driver’s License/Permit Application (VL-021) with a parent or guardian signature (if under 18)
Submit required identification and residency documents
Pay a $20 permit fee

With a learner’s permit, you may only drive when accompanied by a licensed adult who is at least 25 years old and seated in the front passenger seat. This stage is critical for gaining supervised driving experience.

The Written Knowledge Test

Before receiving a learner’s permit or license, all applicants must pass a written knowledge test. The test evaluates your understanding of Vermont driving laws, traffic signs, and safe driving practices.

Topics covered in the test include:

Rules of the road
Speed limits and right-of-way laws
Road signs and pavement markings
DUI laws and penalties
Driving in adverse weather
Sharing the road with bicyclists and pedestrians

The test is available at DMV offices and can sometimes be taken online. Study the Vermont Driver’s Manual (available as a PDF or in print at DMV locations). Many websites also offer free practice tests that mirror the actual exam.

Driver Education Requirements for Teen Drivers

If you are under 18, you must complete a Vermont-approved driver education program before obtaining a junior driver’s license. This program includes:

30 hours of classroom instruction
6 hours of behind-the-wheel training
6 hours of in-car observation

Teen drivers must also log at least 40 hours of supervised driving (10 at night) before they are eligible for the road test. Once these requirements are met and the learner’s permit has been held for at least one year, the applicant may schedule a road test to apply for a Junior Operator’s License.

The Road Test: Demonstrating Your Driving Skills

The practical road test evaluates your ability to drive safely in real-world conditions. The test is conducted by a certified examiner, and you must bring a registered, insured vehicle in good condition.

During the test, you will be assessed on your ability to:

Start and stop smoothly
Use turn signals appropriately
Obey traffic signs and signals
Maintain proper speed and lane position
Park correctly, including parallel parking
Execute turns and a three-point turn
Respond to hazards and demonstrate defensive driving

If you pass, you’ll receive a temporary license, and your official driver’s license will be mailed within 7–10 business days.

Types of Licenses Issued in Vermont

Learner’s Permit: For first-time drivers who are learning with supervision.
Junior Driver’s License: For drivers under 18 who meet education and practice requirements.
Class D (Operator’s License): A full, unrestricted license for drivers age 18 and older.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): For operating large or commercial vehicles (requires separate training and exams).
Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL): Optional license that allows U.S. land and sea border crossings without a passport (not valid for air travel).

Resources and Preparation Tools

Vermont offers several helpful tools and resources:

Vermont DMV Official Website: Forms, scheduling, and information.
Driver’s Manual (PDF): Study guide for written and road tests.
Practice Exams: Online quizzes to test your knowledge.
myDMV Portal: Book appointments, check status, and renew licenses.

To Sum Up…

Earning your Vermont driver’s license is a meaningful achievement that requires careful preparation and responsible driving practice. From submitting the correct documents and passing the written exam to logging supervised hours and taking the road test, each step ensures that you’re ready to drive safely and confidently.

Whether you’re just starting or finishing the process, following Vermont’s official guidelines will help you reach your goal. For the most up-to-date information or to begin your application, visit dmv.vermont.gov.