Applying for a New License (Drivers 18+) in Vermont

1) Choose Your License

• Operator's License (Class D)

• Motorcycle Endorsement (Class M)

• {Commercial License (CDL) (Class A, B, and C}

NOTE: If you are younger than 18 you must get a permit, enroll in a driver's ed course, and complete Vermont's Graduated Driver program before applying for a Vermont operator's license.

2) Take a Driver's Education Course

Younger than 18―Driver's ed is mandatory.

18 and Older―If you're obtaining an operator's license for the first time, you should consider enrolling in a driver education class. Although it is not required, it is helpful to take a supplemental course such as the one offered by our sponsor before you take the written exam.

3) Prepare for the Test

Vermont's Driver's Manual towers as your best study-source for the written exam. After studying it and, perhaps, enrolling in a supplemental course, you should consider taking a few practice tests.

4) Locate a DMV Office

Although walk-ins are accepted, scheduling an appointment with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office is strongly encouraged. Call Central Scheduling at (802) 828-2085.

5) Make Test-Day Preparations

At the exam station you'll need to:

• Provide proof of identity.

• Provide proof of Vermont residency.

• Provide your Social Security number (if you don't own one you must provide a J2 visa).

• Be accompanied by a parent or guardian if you are younger than 18.

• Pass a vision test.

The test consists of 20 questions. You need to answer at least 16 correctly to pass. If you fail, you must wait at least one day before testing again.

6) Take the Written Test

After you've studied Vermont's Driver's Manual, possibly enrolled in a supplemental driver's ed course, and have all of the requirements listed above, you'll visit the DMV at your appointed time.

NOTE: Notify the scheduling operator if you have difficulty reading. The operator will then arrange assistance for you. And if your command of English is lacking, you can either bring a dictionary or use an interpreter.

7) Get a Car

You'll eventually need a car to take Vermont's road test. Having a car will allow you to practice on your own, outside of a driver training program, and provide you valuable behind-the-wheel confidence.

Consider a used car that meets needs, rather than image. Before deciding, be sure to get a vehicle history report. This will protect you from any surprise-breakdowns that could squeeze your wallet.

8) Get Car Insurance

Car insurance, regardless if you only own a permit, is mandatory. You can compare rates at our Insurance Center.

9) Take the Driving Test

Applicants With a Learner Permit

After making an appointment through Central Scheduling at (802) 828-2085, you must bring to the DMV test site:

• Another licensed driver.

• A clean, working vehicle with a valid inspection sticker.

• An automobile insurance identification card.

• Cash or check to pay the road test/license fee.

Applicants Without a Learner Permit

After making an appointment through Central Scheduling at (802) 828-2085, you must:

• Have another licensed driver drive you to the exam office.

• Provide proper identification.

• Provide a clean, working vehicle with a valid inspection sticker.

• Provide an automobile insurance identification card.

• Have cash or check to pay the road test/license fee.

You must also pass the vision and written tests before you'll be issued a license.

New residents with licenses from other states that are current or have been expired for less than one year ARE NOT required to take the road test.

Once You Pass

If you take the road test at a site with a DMV office, you'll immediately be issued a permanent license.

If You Fail

You must wait one week before testing again.

10) Receive Your License in the Mail

If you did take not your road test at a site with a DMV office, you must take your test results to a DMV office to receive your license.

Non-Citizens

Vermont will recognize your license for one year if you are a tourist, or 60 days if you establish residency. Though not required, accompanying your license with an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended.

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