Vermont Driver's License
Requirements
In Vermont, driver's licenses are issued by the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (VT DMV) — under the Agency of Transportation. The standard non-commercial credential is an Operator License (Class D). Vermont operates a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program for drivers under 18: a Learner's Permit at 15 (with concurrent Driver Education enrollment), a Junior Operator License at 16 with strict passenger and night-driving restrictions, and a full Operator License at 18. Driver Education is mandatory for ALL applicants under 18: 30 classroom hours + 6 hours behind-the-wheel + 6 hours observation. Vermont was an early adopter of the federally-compliant REAL ID — required to board domestic flights starting May 7, 2025. Vermont also issues a Driver's Privilege Card to residents without lawful-presence documentation, allowing legal driving but not federal identification use. The DMV operates 8 in-person offices statewide, supplemented by an outstanding online portal at dmv.vermont.gov that handles most renewals, change-of-address, and many duplicate transactions.
Requirements Overview
Must be a Vermont resident. The DMV requires two documents proving Vermont residency. New residents from another state must transfer their out-of-state license within 60 days of establishing residency. Vermont issues a Driver's Privilege Card to qualifying residents who don't have federal lawful-presence documentation, allowing legal driving but not federal identification use.
Required Documents
Bring original documents only — photocopies are not accepted. Verify the complete current list at the official Vermont DMV website.
- Proof of identity and U.S. citizenship or lawful presence (U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate, certificate of naturalization, or valid permanent resident card)
- Social Security number — SSN card, W-2, 1099, or paystub showing the full SSN
- Proof of name change (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree) if applicable
- Two proofs of Vermont residency (utility bill, bank statement, lease, or current VT vehicle registration)
- Parental/guardian consent signed in person at a DMV office — required for applicants under 18
- For applicants under 18: state-approved Driver Education completion certificate (30 classroom + 6 behind-the-wheel + 6 observation)
- Driving Log signed by parent confirming 40 supervised hours (10 at night)
- Vehicle for road test with valid VT registration and proof of insurance
Fees & Costs
Fees change frequently. Always verify the current fee at the official Vermont DMV website before your visit.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to get your Vermont driver's license. Steps may vary based on your age and residency status — always confirm with the official DMV.
Enroll in Driver Education at 15
Vermont requires all applicants under 18 to complete a state-approved Driver Education program before licensing: 30 classroom hours + 6 hours behind-the-wheel + 6 observation hours. Many Vermont high schools offer Driver Ed; private schools cost $500–$800.
Study the Vermont Driver's Manual
Download the current Vermont Driver's Manual from dmv.vermont.gov. The written knowledge test is 20 questions covering VT traffic laws, road signs, winter and mountain driving safety, wildlife collision avoidance, and the state's Move Over law. You need 80% (16 correct) to pass.
Apply for a Learner's Permit at 15
Visit any Vermont DMV office with your parent/guardian, required documents, Driver Education enrollment proof, and $20 fee. Pass the vision test and the written knowledge test. The Learner's Permit allows driving only when supervised by a licensed driver age 25+ in the front passenger seat — Vermont uses the same 25+ supervisor age requirement as New Hampshire.
Pro tip: Use the Vermont DMV online portal at dmv.vermont.gov for appointments — Burlington and South Burlington branches typically book 3–4 weeks ahead.
Log 40 Supervised Hours (10 at Night)
During the Learner's Permit period, log at least 40 hours of supervised driving — including 10 hours at night — using the Vermont Driving Log. The supervising driver must be 25+ with a valid license. Both you and your parent sign each entry.
Hold Permit for 1 Year
Vermont requires a 12-month Learner's Permit period for under-18 applicants — one of the longest in the U.S. The clock resets if the permit holder is convicted of any moving violation during the period.
Pass the Skills (Drive) Test at 16
Schedule the drive test through dmv.vermont.gov. Bring your Learner's Permit, completed Driver Education certificate, signed driving log, parent consent, vehicle insurance/registration, and a sober adult sponsor. The 15–25 minute test covers parallel parking, three-point turn, controlled intersections, lane changes, and basic city/freeway driving.
Receive the Junior Operator License at 16
Pay the $20 Junior Operator License fee. The Vermont Junior Operator License has restrictions: no driving sunset–sunrise unless accompanied by a parent/guardian or going to/from work or school. No non-family passengers for the first 3 months. After 3 months: ONE non-family passenger allowed; up to 4 non-family passengers after 6 months. Cell phone use of any kind (even hands-free) is prohibited.
Upgrade to Full Operator License at 18
On the 18th birthday — after at least 18 months on the Junior Operator License with no convictions — the license automatically becomes a full Operator License. Standard 4-year renewal cycle begins ($32); restrictions lift completely. No additional test or office visit required.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Vermont Driver's Privilege Card is a driving credential issued to Vermont residents without federal lawful-presence documentation. It permits legal driving and serves as proof of insurance eligibility but cannot be used for federal identification (no airport boarding, no federal building access). The Privilege Card costs $32 (same as a standard Operator License) and is valid for 4 years. Holders follow the same GDL/road-test rules.
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official Vermont DMV to start your application with the correct, up-to-date requirements.
This website is not affiliated with any government agency or DMV office. Information is for general guidance only. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official DMV website before taking action.