Learner Permits
Graduated Driver License Program (Learner Permits)
Junior Operator License
Graduated Driver License Program (Junior Operator License)
Operator License (Senior)
Graduated Driver License Program - General Information
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General Information

If you want to learn to drive in Vermont, you will have to get a Learner Permit. You must be at least 15 years old to take the test. Your parent or guardian must sign your application giving permission for you to be tested. If you are 18 years of age or older, only your signature is required on the application. You will be required to pass a written test and a vision test.

A Junior Operator License is issued to persons 16 or 17 years old who pass the required examination. Your parent or legal guardian must sign your application giving permission for you to be tested. Before getting a license, all 16 and 17 year olds must have passed a driver education and training course. The Vermont Department of Education, Driver Education Division, has Driver Education courses at high schools. There are also Vermont Commercial Driver Training Schools that offer driver training courses. A wallet-sized certificate will be issued to those who pass the course.

A Senior Operator's License is issued to anyone 18 years of age or older who passes the required examination. This license allows a person to drive any non-commercial vehicle except a school bus or motorcycle. To drive a commercial vehicle, school bus or motorcycle requires additional examinations.

See License/Permit/ID fees

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Learner Permits

Who needs a Learner Permit ?  If you want to learn to drive in Vermont, you will have to get a Learner Permit. You must be at least 15 years old to take the test. Your parent or guardian must sign your application giving permission for you to be tested. If you are 18 years of age or older, only your signature is required on the application. You will be required to pass a written test and a vision test.

What do I need to do to get a learner Permit ?  

1. Each applicant for an original learner permit, operator license or non-driver ID is required to show proof of Vermont residency, documentary proof of identity and date and place of birth. Proof of identity shall be one primary document and one secondary document. A primary document must contain the full name and date of birth and must be verifiable (i.e., we must be able to contact the issuing agency to determine the authenticity of the document).
2. If you are 15, 16 or 17 years old, you need your parent's or legal guardian's permission. A parent or legal guardian must sign the application before you can take the test. If you are a foreign exchange student, you may obtain in advance a Foreign Exchange Parental Authorization Form, to be signed by a parent or legal guardian. This form is available at Motor Vehicle offices.
3. If you do not have a Social Security Number you cannot apply. The only document that can be accepted in place of a Social Security Number is a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are ineligible for a Social Security Number.
4. Make an appointment for an exam.
5. Your permit will be issued after you pass the vision test and the written test.

Note for Non-US Citizens:  Non-US citizens who wish to obtain a Learner Permit or Driver License must provide proof of valid legal presence in the United States for at least 30 days from the date of the Learner Permit or Driver License Issuance forward. Examples of acceptable proof include a Permanent Resident card (I-551), or a foreign passport with a US visa and I-94, showing class and expiration date. Further documentation may be required for some classes, such as students and exchange visitors. Any license or permit issued to a citizen of a foreign country shall expire coincidentally with his or her authorized duration of stay.  See Vermont Statutes, Title 23 Motor Vehicles, Chapter 9 Operators' Licenses, Subchapter 1 General Provisions, §603. Application for and issuance of license, Subsection (d)

Do I need an appointment to get a Learner Permit ?  We recommend that you contact the department to schedule an appointment for tests. Having an appointment means that you will be taken care of as quickly as possible. See about making an appointment for your test . If you appear at the motor vehicle office without an appointment, you may be processed as a "walk-in". All persons with appointments will be taken care of first. If there is still enough time to give you the test, then you will be tested. If there is not enough time to test you, you should schedule an appointment for a later date. Remember, as a "walk-in" you may not receive the service you seek.

If you are unable to keep the scheduled appointment, please notify Central Scheduling at 1-802-828-2085 as soon as possible so that we may make the scheduled time available for someone else.

When can I drive with a Learner Permit ?  An individual fifteen years of age or older may operate a motor vehicle if they hold a valid learner's permit and are accompanied by one of the following people in the vehicle, who is riding beside the driver:

1. A licensed and unimpaired parent or guardian,
2. A licensed and unimpaired driver education instructor, and/or
3. A licensed and unimpaired person at least twenty-five years of age.

If I have a medical problem can I still get a Learner Permit ?  If you have a medical problem such as epilepsy, diabetes (requiring insulin injection), or any other condition which may result in a loss of consciousness, you must notify the Department of Motor Vehicles, Driver Improvement Section at 1-802-828-2050 prior to making an appointment for an examination. You will be sent a medical evaluation form which must be completed by your doctor. When the doctor has completed the form, mail it back to the Department of Motor Vehicles for review. You will be notified in writing if approval is given or not given for you to be issued a learner permit.

If you are not sure if a medical condition that you have will affect your ability to obtain a learner permit, please call the Department of Motor Vehicles, Driver Improvement Section at 1-802-828-2050 for advice.

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Graduated Driver License Program (Learner Permit)

To apply for a Learner's Permit, an individual (who is 15, 16, or 17 years old) must have maintained a "clean" driving record in the previous two (2) years.

If you are under the age of 18 when you are issued your Vermont Learner's Permit, you fall under the requirements of the Graduated Driver License law.

The main requirements of this law that affect a person who is under 18 years of age and has a valid Vermont Learner Permit are:

• You may operate a motor vehicle if you are accompanied by one of the following people in the vehicle, who is riding beside you when you are the driver:

1. A licensed and unimpaired parent or guardian.
2. A licensed or certified and unimpaired driver education instructor.
3. A licensed and unimpaired individual who is at least 25 years of age.

• A Learner Permit is considered to be a "provisional license" which is recallable. Any of the following will result in the recall of your Learner Permit:

1. Carrying passengers for hire - 90 day recall
2. Driving for employer/employment - 90 day recall
3. Recommendation from a Diversion/Reparative Board - 30 day recall
4. Points accumulation (for a single 3 point speeding violation or a 6 point total) - 90 day recall
5. Passenger age violation - 90 day recall
6. Passenger restrictions - 90 day recall

• While a recall is in effect, you cannot drive (at all) and you cannot apply for a Junior Operator License or an Operator's License.
• When a recall is issued, you have the right to a hearing.
• When a Learner Permit is recalled, it will be restored at the end of a specified period of time, and (if required), when you have passed a re-examination.
• No reinstatement fee will be due when a Learner Permit recall is restored.

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Junior Operator License

Preparation For Getting Your Junior Operator's License

• You must possess a valid Learner's Permit for at least one year prior to obtaining a Junior Operator License.
• Prior to obtaining a Junior Operator License, you must complete an additional forty hours of practice behind the wheel, with at least ten hours being night-time driving, while accompanied by one of the individuals indicated above who is riding beside the driver. Proof of this additional practice must be submitted to DMV at the time of application for a Junior Operator License, on a Driving Practice Log Sheet ( 247.83KB) and certified by one of the individuals indicated above.
• An individual must have maintained a "clean" driving record without any Learner Permit recalls, suspensions or revocations for a six-month period prior to obtaining a Junior Operator License.

General Information

What is a Junior Operator License ?  A junior operator license is issued to persons 16 or 17 years old who pass the required examination. Your parent or legal guardian must sign your application giving permission for you to be tested. Before getting a license, all 16 and 17 year olds must have passed a driver education and training course. The Vermont Department of Education, Driver Education Division, has Driver Education courses at high schools. There are also Vermont Commercial Driver Training Schools that offer driver training courses. A wallet-sized certificate will be issued to those who pass the course.

What do I need to do to get a Junior Operator License ?

1. A learner permit that is not expired. Note: Must have held a valid learner permit for one (1) full year if applicant is under the age of 18.
2. A driver education certificate showing you have passed the class at a high school or an approved commercial driving school. Note: If you have lost your driver education certificate you may apply for a duplicate by contacting the high school where you completed your driver education course. If you took the course at a commercial driver training school, contact that school for a duplicate.
3. A completed log sheet (signed by a parent or legal guardian) stating that you have completed at least 40 hours of driving - including at least 10 hours of night-time driving.
4. You must have maintained a clean driving record (without any Learner Permit recalls or any suspensions) for a period of at least 6 months prior to applying for your Junior Operator's License.
5. Proof of Vermont residency.
6. You need your parent's or legal guardian's permission. A parent or legal guardian must sign the application before you can take the test. If you are a foreign exchange student, you may obtain in advance a Foreign Exchange Parental Authorization Form, to be signed by a parent or legal guardian. This form is available at Motor Vehicle offices.
7. If you do not have a Social Security Number you must provide us with a letter from the Social Security Administration, stating why you could not obtain a Social Security Number.
8. Make an appointment for an exam.
9. If you do not have a Vermont learner permit and took driver education in another state you must provide proof of successful completion of a state-approved driver education program. You may take the vision, written and road test in one day. Be sure to tell the scheduling operator when you make your appointment.
10. Have a car that is clean and in good mechanical condition with a valid inspection sticker. Be sure the emergency brake is working properly.
11. An automobile insurance identification card is required by Vermont law. The card must state the name of the insurance carrier, effective and expiration dates of coverage, name of insured, and the description of the vehicle including the vehicle identification number.
12. A valid registration certificate for the vehicle is required.
13. Your license will be issued after you pass the road test and pay the fee.

Each applicant for an original learner's permit, operator's license or non-driver ID is required to show documentary proof of identity and date and place of birth. Proof of identity shall be one primary document and one secondary document (click on "Identity Documents" in menu at left for details). A primary document must contain the full name and date of birth and must be verifiable, i.e., we must be able to contact the issuing agency to determine the authenticity of the document.

What about High School Driver License Testing ?  Driver license road tests are now being conducted by high school driver education instructors. This service is provided only at schools which have enrolled in the testing program, and by those instructors who have been certified as examiners by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Road tests will be administered only to students who attend a participating school. A student who passed the road test which was given by the high school driver education instructor, will be issued a Driver Education Examination Certificate. This certificate, in addition to the other items required for license issue, must be submitted in person to any Motor Vehicle examination office. Complete information regarding this program will be provided to students by the instructors at participating schools.

Do I need an appointment to get a Junior Operator's License ?  We recommend that you contact the Department to schedule an appointment for tests. Having an appointment means that you will be taken care of as quickly as possible. See about making an appointment for your test . If you appear at the Motor Vehicle office without an appointment, you may be processed as a "walk-in". All persons with appointments will be taken care of first. If there is still enough time to give you the test, then you will be tested. If there is not enough time to test you, you should schedule an appointment for a later date. Remember, as a "walk-in" you may not receive the service you seek.

If you are unable to keep the scheduled appointment, please notify Central Scheduling at 1-802-828-2085 as soon as possible so that we may make the scheduled time available for someone else.

If I have a medical problem can I get a Junior Operator's License ?  If you have a medical problem such as epilepsy, diabetes (requiring insulin injection), or any other condition which may result in a loss of consciousness, you must notify the Department of Motor Vehicles, Driver Improvement Section at 1-802-828-2050 prior to making an appointment for an examination. You will be sent a medical evaluation form which must be completed by your doctor. When the doctor has completed the form mail it back to the Department of Motor Vehicles for review. You will be notified in writing if approval is given or not given for you to be issued a junior operator license. If you are not sure if a medical condition that you have will affect your ability to obtain a learner permit, call the Department of Motor Vehicles, Driver Improvement Section at 1-802-828-2050 for advice.

When can I drive with a Junior Operator's License ?  A junior operator's license is considered a Provisional License. You cannot operate a motor vehicle in the course of your employment, for compensation received either directly or indirectly, carry persons for hire or permit an unlicensed person to operate on your license. The Commissioner of Motor Vehicles may revoke or take your license away if you show through your actions that you are an unsafe driver. Speeding, collisions or committing careless acts while driving may result in the loss of your junior operator license. Your license may also be taken away if your parent or legal guardian withdraw their permission for you to drive.

Note for Non-US Citizens:  Non-US citizens who wish to obtain a Learner Permit or Driver License must provide proof of valid legal presence in the United States for at least 30 days from the date of the Learner Permit or Driver License Issuance forward. Examples of acceptable proof include a Permanent Resident card (I-551), or a foreign passport with a US visa and I-94, showing class and expiration date. Further documentation may be required for some classes, such as students and exchange visitors. Any license or permit issued to a citizen of a foreign country shall expire coincidentally with his or her authorized duration of stay.  See Vermont Statutes, Title 23 Motor Vehicles, Chapter 9 Operators' Licenses, Subchapter 1 General Provisions, §603. Application for and issuance of license, Subsection (d)

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Junior Operator (Graduated Driver License Program)

When you are issued your Junior Operator's License (if you are under 18 years of age) you fall under the requirements of Vermont's Graduated Driver License law.

The main requirements of this law that affect a person who is under 18 years of age (and has a valid Vermont Junior Operator's License) are:

• While holding a Junior Operator's License, you may not operate a vehicle in the course of your employment for one year following the issuance of your Junior Operator's License. For example, you cannot act as a pizza delivery driver until having had a Junior Operator's License for one year, or until reaching the age of eighteen (whichever comes first).
• While holding a Junior Operator's License, you may not carry passengers for hire.
• During the first three months of driving under a Junior Operator's License, you are restricted to driving alone, or with:

1. A licensed and unimpaired parent or guardian, and/or
2. A licensed or certified and unimpaired driver education instructor, and/or
3. A licensed and unimpaired individual who is at least 25 years of age.
   If one of these individuals is in the vehicle with you there is no restriction on the number of passengers you can transport in the vehicle. However, you (as the driver) are not allowed to transport more passengers than there are safety belts.

• During the second three months of driving under a Junior Operator's License you may begin transporting immediate family members. The family member is not required to be one of the individuals listed above.
• After holding a Junior Operator's License for six months there are no passenger restrictions (other than not having more passengers than there are safety belts).
• You must be eighteen years of age to obtain an Operator's License, and must not have had any recalls, suspensions or revocations during the previous six month period.
• If you have a Junior Operator's License from another state and apply for a Vermont Junior Operator's License you will be subject to Vermont's Graduated License provisions unless you have held the Junior Operator's License in the other state for a period of at least six months. You may obtain a Vermont Junior Operator's License by: (1) successfully passing the required examinations; (2) providing proof of successful completion of a Driver Education program; (3) providing proof of completion of an additional 40 hours of driving. If you have held the Junior Operator's License in the other state for a period of at least six months you may surrender the out-of-state Junior Operator's License for a Vermont issued Junior Operator's License and will be exempt from the driving restrictions and provisions of Vermont's Graduated License laws.
• A Junior Operator's License is considered to be a "provisional license" which is recallable. Any of the following will result in the recall of your Junior Operator's License:

1. Carrying passengers for hire - 90 day recall
2. Driving for employer/employment - 90 day recall
3. Recommendation from a Diversion/Reparative Board - 30 day recall
4. Points accumulation (for a single 3 point speeding violation or a 6 point total) - 90 day recall
5. Passenger age violation - 90 day recall
6. Passenger restrictions - 90 day recall

• While a recall is in effect, you cannot drive (at all) and you cannot apply for an Operator's License.
• When a recall is issued, you have the right to a hearing.
• When a Junior Operator's License is recalled, it will be restored at the end of a specified period of time, and (if required), when you have passed a re-examination.
• No reinstatement fee will be due when a Junior Operator's License recall is restored.

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(Senior) Operator's License

A senior operator's license is issued to anyone 18 years of age or older who passes the required examination. This license allows a person to drive any non-commercial vehicle except a school bus or motorcycle. To drive a commercial vehicle, school bus or motorcycle requires additional examinations.

How do I get an Operator's license if I have a valid learner's permit ?

1. Make an appointment for an exam.
2. Have someone with a valid driver's license come with you.
3. Have a car that is clean and in good mechanical condition with a valid inspection sticker. Be sure the emergency brake is working properly.
4. An automobile insurance identification card is required by Vermont law. The card must state the name of the insurance carrier, effective and expiration dates of coverage, name of insured, description of the vehicle including the vehicle identification number.
5. A valid registration certificate for the vehicle is required.
6. Your license will be issued after you pass the road test and pay the fee.

Each applicant for an original learner's permit, operator's license or non-driver ID is required to show documentary proof of identity and date and place of birth. Proof of identity shall be one primary document and one secondary document. A primary document must contain the full name and date of birth and must be verifiable, i.e., we must be able to contact the issuing agency to determine the authenticity of the document.

Note for Non-US Citizens:  Non-US citizens who wish to obtain a Learner Permit or Driver License must provide proof of valid legal presence in the United States for at least 30 days from the date of the Learner Permit or Driver License Issuance forward. Examples of acceptable proof include a Permanent Resident card (I-551), or a foreign passport with a US visa and I-94, showing class and expiration date. Further documentation may be required for some classes, such as students and exchange visitors. Any license or permit issued to a citizen of a foreign country shall expire coincidentally with his or her authorized duration of stay.  See Vermont Statutes, Title 23 Motor Vehicles, Chapter 9 Operators' Licenses, Subchapter 1 General Provisions, §603. Application for and issuance of license, Subsection (d)

How do I get an Operator's license if I do not have a valid learner's permit?  If you don't have a valid Learner's Permit you will need to take a written test and pass it. You don't need to purchase a Learner's Permit unless you wish to practice driving. You can then take the following steps to obtain an Operator's License (as long as you have proof of having passed the written test within the preceding 2 years):

1. Make an appointment for an exam.
2. Bring proof of identity which shows your true legal name, date of birth and place of birth including city, town or village and state.
3. Have someone with a valid driver's license come with you.
4. Have a car that is clean and in good mechanical condition with a valid inspection sticker. Be sure the emergency brake is working properly.
5. An automobile insurance identification card is required by Vermont law. The card must state the name of the insurance carrier, effective and expiration dates of coverage, name of insured, description of the vehicle including the vehicle identification number.
6. A valid registration certificate for the vehicle is required.
7. Your license will be issued after you pass the vision, written and road test and pay the fee.

Each applicant for an original learner's permit, operator's license or non-driver ID is required to show documentary proof of identity and date and place of birth. Proof of identity shall be one primary document and one secondary document. A primary document must contain the full name and date of birth and must be verifiable, i.e., we must be able to contact the issuing agency to determine the authenticity of the document.

Do I need an appointment to get an Operator's License?  We recommend that you contact the Department to schedule an appointment for tests. Having an appointment means that you will be taken care of as quickly as possible. See about making an appointment for your test. If you appear at the motor vehicle office without an appointment, you may be processed as a "walk-in". All persons with appointments will be taken care of first. If there is still enough time to give you the test, then you will be tested. If there is not enough time to test you, you should schedule an appointment for a later date. Remember, as a "walk-in" you may not receive the service you seek.

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Make An Appointment

Make an appointment for an exam for all locations by: Calling Central Scheduling at 1-802-828-2085 or send the following information in an email and we will reply providing you with the date, time and location of your test:

* Complete name
* Date of birth
* Vermont DMV PID (Personal Identification) number (if one is available, or if you have one)
* Telephone number
* Type of test (please specify written test, eye test or road test)
* Area/location where you wish to take the test
* Approximate date and time you wish to take the test

Note: If you call Central Scheduling don't send an email ...never do both!

If you are unable to keep the scheduled appointment, please notify Central Scheduling at 1-802-828-2085 as soon as possible so that we may make the scheduled time available for someone else