Vermont Driver’s License Requirements

Once you’re of driving age in Vermont, you’ll need valid identification and proof of residence to take your exams and earn your license.
Written by Kaitlin May
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Updated on Jun 01, 2022
The state of
Vermont
requires applicants to be at least 16 years of age and provide valid identification and proof of residence to obtain a driver’s license. Once you complete a driver’s education course and pass the vision, knowledge, and road exams—you’ll be ready to hit the road.
Earning a driver’s license is a milestone in anyone’s life, but the road to get there varies from state to state. Before you initiate the process where you live, it’s essential to know what your state requires. 
With the expertise of the
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What are the requirements for a driver’s license in Vermont?

In Vermont, you must be 16 years old to obtain a junior driver’s license and 18 years old to get a full license. Beyond that, you’ll need to make sure you have the following in hand before you show up at the Vermont DMV:
  • Identification and date of birth: a birth certificate, current passport, citizenship certificate, or valid permanent resident card
  • Social Security information: a Social Security card, W-2 form, SSA-1099 form, or a pay stub displaying your name and at least the last four digits of your SSN
  • Proof of Vermont residency: two samples of mail with your current name and full address, a utility bill, a property tax bill, or a lease or landlord statement
To check out more options for valid documents you can use, refer to the
Vermont DMV website
You’ll also need to disclose any medical conditions that could impair your driving skills on your application. If you experience seizures or fainting spells, you may need to submit a medical report with your application.

What are the requirements for young drivers? 

Any prospective drivers under 18 will need a parent or legal guardian to sign off on the application granting permission to be tested. Additionally, this is what you’ll need to do before getting your junior license:
  • Maintain a “clean” driving record on your learner’s permit for at least six months 
  • Demonstrate at least one year of possessing a learner’s permit
  • Pass a state-approved driver training course
  • Complete 40 hours of driving practice with at least 10 hours of nighttime driving

What are the requirements for out-of-state drivers? 

If you’ve made the move to Vermont, you’ll need a valid driver’s license or one that’s been expired for less than three years to get your license in the Green Mountain State. You’ll also need to pass an eye examination and provide proof of identification. 

How to get a driver’s license in Vermont

For new drivers: complete driver training 

Drivers under age 18 will need to complete a state-approved driver training course, consisting of 30 hours of classroom instruction, 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training, and 6 hours of observation.
New drivers over the age of 18 will need to complete a state-approved 6+6 Adult Driver Education Course, which includes at least 6 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training.

Vision test

Sharp vision is essential to prompt reactions on the road to avoid accidents. A failed vision exam can lead to license revocation, and passing the exam is required to obtain your license.
It’s permitted to wear glasses or contact lenses or get corrective eye surgery to meet the standards of driving safely. Whether you enlist the help of corrective lenses or not, the visual requirements are as follows:
  • At least 20/40 vision in each eye
  • 130-degree field of vision
If you don’t pass the vision exam, you will need an eye doctor to further evaluate you.

Knowledge exam

On the written exam, you will put your knowledge of safe driving practices, road signs, and traffic laws to the test to demonstrate your mental command of the road. You will need to answer at least 16 of 20 multiple-choice questions correctly in order to pass.
The best way to prepare is to work through the
Vermont Driver’s Manual
You will have to pay $32 to take the written test.

Road test

The final hoop you’ll need to jump through to become a licensed driver will be to pass a road test. You can either schedule an appointment for the test online or by calling your local office. You will have to pay $19 to take the road test.
When the exam begins, you’ll take a back seat, because the examiner will conduct a safety check on your vehicle. The vehicle you’re using needs to be insured and registered as well.
After that—it’s your turn. You’ll get in the driver’s seat and await guidance from your instructor. Throughout the exam, you’ll perform and be scored on a number of driving maneuvers, including the following:
  • Stopping and starting on a hill
  • Turning around
  • Parallel parking
  • Giving the right-of-way to pedestrians
  • Braking safely
  • Backing up
  • Navigating lanes
After you’ve completed the test, your examiner will break down any mistakes that were made and decide whether or not you’ve passed or failed. If you pass, you can bring your documents to the DMV and officially get your driver’s license! 
You’ll need to pay a fee of $32 for a two-year license or $51 for a four-year license

How to save money on car insurance in Vermont

You’ve officially made it to the big leagues—but before you can show off your driving skills around town, you’ll need to lock down a car insurance policy. You’re probably raring to go, which is why having the speedy app
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