Applying for a New License

Before even considering applying for a senior operator's license, you must be at least 18 years old. If you meet this basic requirement, you are eligible to apply even if you don't hold a learner's permit.

To prime yourself for the licensing exams (written and road), you will need to first download Vermont's 83-page driver manual. You may also download the Operator's License Application form.

Applying with a Learner's Permit

1. Call Central Scheduling ((802) 828-2085) to reserve a testing time at any DMV location. Or you can schedule a time via e-mail at CommisionersOffice@state.vt.us and include your name, date of birth, personal identification number (if you have one), phone number, type of test (skills test), preferred test location, and approximate date and time.
2. Have a driver with a valid license accompany you to the test area.
3. Have a car that is in good working condition and displays a valid inspection sticker.
4. Be prepared to show a valid car insurance identification card.
5. Provide proof of registration.
6. Pay the appropriate fees.

Testing and Licensing Fees

• Two-year license: $25

• Four-year license: $40

Your license will be issued to you after you pass the road test and pay the appropriate fee.

Applying without a Learner's Permit

1. Make an appointment with Central Scheduling ((802) 828-2085) for a test time at any DMV location. Or you can reserve a time through e-mail at CommisionersOffice@state.vt.us and include your name, date of birth, telephone number, type of test (written, skills, and vision), preferred test area, and approximate date and time.
2. Bring proof of identity and date and place of birth.
3. Appear with a driver with a valid license.
4. Make sure the car you are driving is in sound working condition and is furnished with a valid inspection decal.
5. Have in your possession a car insurance identification card.
6. Provide valid proof of registration.
7. Pay the appropriate fees.

Testing and Licensing Fees

• Two-year license: $40

• Four-year license: $55

Your license will be issued to you after you pass all three tests and pay the appropriate fee.

New Resident with an Out-of-State License

You must appear in person at a DMV office with your current out-of-state license and proof of identity and date and place of birth.

As long as your license has not been expired for more than one year, you will not be required to take the written and road tests. All applicants, however, will be required to take an eye exam.

Testing and Licensing Fees

• Two-year license: $40

• Four-year license: $55

You will be required to surrender your old license upon being issued a new Vermont license.

Non-Citizen License Requirements

To obtain a Vermont driver's license, you must follow the steps as described above. You will, however, have to provide different forms of identification. To satisfy DMV officials, you'll need to provide:

• Proof of legal presence with a minimum of 180 days remaining (approximately six months).

• Proof of identity, including any legal forms documenting a name change.

• Proof of Vermont residency if you're a refugee or permanent legal resident.

To meet these stipulations, you'll need to provide the following:

• The appropriate U.S. document(s) to your situation verifying your legal presence.

• Either a Social Security number or a letter from the Social Security Administration explaining why you are ineligible to receive a Social Security number.

• Two forms of acceptable identification.

All submitted forms and documents must be valid and current.

Tests

Written Test

The written test consists of 20 questions and you must answer at least 16 correctly to pass. All the questions are directly based on information contained in Vermont's driver manual. Study it, and you won't have to worry about getting stumped by a surprise question. If you do fail, you must wait at least one day before trying again.

Road Test

This test lasts approximately 10 minutes and will require you to drive in real road conditions while under the watch of an examiner. Keep in mind that you will not be permited to take the road test until you have passed the written and eye exams. Should you fail, you must wait at least one week before testing again.

Types of Licenses

• Learner Permit

• Junior Operator License

• Operator License

• Commercial Driver Instructional Permit

• Commercial Driver License