Frequently Asked Questions

See "Abandoned Vehicles" page.

1. Complete the Affidavit of Non-titled Vehicle form (VT-025).
2. Have a VIN verification completed.
3. Provide copies of bills of sale.
4. The title will be branded with "undisclosed lien".

Use NMVTIS or carfax.com to determine where the vehicle was last registered/titled.

Obtain the title or the registration certificate from the other state and have bills of sale from the last registered/titled owner to you (the customer)

You can use NMVTIS or carfax.com to determine where the vehicle was last registered/titled.

You can contact us or visit an office, and we can check and advise what it is, what state it is from, and provide the title number.

Yes, as long as we can verify that you were the last registered owner of this vehicle in Vermont.

Yes, but you must provide the registration certificate to the new owner as proof of ownership.

You do not have to get a title, but you may do so by completing a registration application and submitting it to this department with the title fee and a copy of your registration.

Date validation stickers are no longer required.

Act 41 was signed into law on June 1, 2023. It eliminated the annual (or biennial) validation sticker that previously appeared on license plates.

Yes. You are still required to maintain a current vehicle registration, and a valid registration certificate is required to complete your vehicle inspection.

Replacement plates are available. Since removing the sticker is not a requirement, the replacement plate fee will be due. You may apply for a standard-issue replacement license plate using form VD-016 (Replacement Plate Application) or by logging into your myDMV account and selecting Request Replacement Registration or New Plate.

You are not required to remove any existing sticker(s) on license plates. You may cover a registration sticker with a masking material such as tape if you wish; however, covering or removing your sticker is unnecessary.

Vermont and out-of-state law enforcement agencies have electronic access to the DMV’s database from their patrol vehicles, allowing them to verify whether a vehicle registration is valid.

In-Person: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and schedule an appointment to visit a Vermont DMV Office.

By Mail: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and mail with any required fees to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Online: Go to mydmv.vermont.gov, click the ‘Change Address on My License’ button at the center of the home screen, or click the ‘Change My License/ID Address’ link under the Driver License, Permit and ID section. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, license/permit/ID number, and two forms of identification.

No, you are required to provide a current and valid address. If you have a forwarding address, most mail from DMV will be returned to us.

In-Person: Complete the Replacement Registration Form (form #VD-040) and schedule an appointment to visit a Vermont DMV Office.

By Mail: Complete the Replacement Registration Form (form #VD-040) and mail with any required fees to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Online: Go to mydmv.vermont.gov, and log into your myDMV account. Once logged in, select the ‘Update My Address’ link in the I Want To panel. The first address available for changing is your mailing address for the vehicle; you can choose to change this address or not. The next address displayed is the physical address, which you can choose to change. Selecting ‘Yes’ to either of these options will bring up fields where you can enter the new address. At the end of the process, click ‘Submit’ to process the request.

Yes, see 23 V.S.A. § 1222 Inspection of registered vehicles

All exams are by appointment only.

For all other services, appointments are recommended but not required.

If you need to schedule an appointment, please visit mydmv.vermont.gov or call 888-970-0357.

Visit mydmv.vermont.gov or call 888.970.0357

If you need to cancel your appointment, please visit bit.ly/CancelMyAppointment or call 888-970-0357.

You will need two of the following items to cancel your appointment;

• Mobile phone number (used when making the appointment)
• Email address (used when making the appointment)
• Appointment ID#

23 V.S.A. § 3304 defines motorboat classes as follows

Motorboats shall be divided into four classes as follows:

• Class A - Less than 16 feet in length.
• Class 1 - 16 feet or over and less than 26 feet in length.
• Class 2 - 26 feet or over and less than 40 feet in length.
• Class 3 - 40 feet or over.

No, the school bus endorsement must be added by the state that issued the CDL.

If the driver meets all qualifications for a Vermont Type II School Bus endorsement a card will be issued to the individual allowing them to drive a Type II School Bus in this state. These requirements include attending a Vermont school bus clinic, passing all required tests (knowledge, vision, and skill tests), and submitting a medical form.

No. The current license will be voided and handed back. You should carry the old license with your temporary until the new license arrives. 

You must get a new picture taken at least once for every other renewal. You may get a new photo at any time for any reason (for a fee). Complete the required documents and schedule an appointment to visit an office.

Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards. These purposes are:

• Accessing Federal facilities
• Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Entering nuclear power plants

In general, a USDOT Number is required if you are operating in interstate commerce and:

You have vehicles that are over 10,000 lbs.
You transport between 9 and 15 passengers (including the driver) for compensation, whether direct or indirect
You transport 16 or more passengers
You haul hazardous materials

To get a USDOT number, new applicants must register online via the Unified Registration System. 

There are several ways a vehicle can be overweight; such as over the registered weight, over tire limits, over an axle weight, or over gross weight.  Depending on which way a vehicle is overweight depends on what there is for a enforcement tolerance.  Depending on the weight violation, a tolerance will vary from a zero tolerance to a 10% tolerance.  It also depends on whether the vehicle is being operated in conformance with a special permit.  However, there is no weight statute that uses the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) as the basis for a vehicle’s legal weight limit.

The defendant on a ticket issued for an overweight violation can be the operator or the carrier. The fines for an overweight violation depend on several factors.  The fines are a set amount per thousand pounds overweight, and vary depending the amount of the overweight. It also depends if the vehicle is operating on a permit, and how many overweight tickets the defendant has been convicted of in the last 12 months. The fines can be found in the Judicial Bureau’s Schedule of Fines under Title 23 VSA Section 1391a at the following website: https://www.vermontjudiciary.org/eforms/Waiver_Penalty_Schedule.pdf

There is no Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation that prohibits a firearm from being possessed by a commercial vehicle operator while driving a commercial vehicle.  There might be another law or regulation that prohibits this act depending on who the operator is and what jurisdiction the operator is in.

There is no law that requires the use of chains on the Hogback Mountain portion of VT Rte 9.  The only mandatory chain-up area is from the chain-up site in Wilmington to the chain-up site in Bennington.

More information on Vermont Chain Up law

Storms can be very fluid, and the chain-up requirement may get turned on and off several times during a storm.

When VTrans activates (or de-activates) the chain-up law, they will post to VTrans’ Facebook page, VT511 Twitter page, the 511 Traveler Information website, and push out a VT Alert. 

With VT Alerts you can subscribe to get an email or text alert, so you don’t have to seek out the information.

• New England 511: http://newengland511.org/Home/Index
• VT-Alert: https://vem.vermont.gov/vtalert
• VTrans on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VTransontheroad/
• VTrans on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AOTVermont

If additional permits are required and the information contained in the original survey is not changed in any manner (including the routes) the Engineering Survey is valid for 6 months.

The designated chain up/down area in Wilmington is the old Route 9 that goes around the marina. This area is signed as the chain up/down area and as a one way road. This area is big enough for several tractor trailers. The pull off west of the marina is not the designated chain up/down area.

No. There is no legal requirement to use chains from the chain up/down area in Wilmington to points east.

The only designated area to chain up for drivers traveling west is the portion of the old Route 9 that goes around the marina in Wilmington. This area is signed as a chain up area.

Engineering Reviews can take up to 10 working days.

Permits that meet or exceed the following perimeters:

• 150,000 pounds or more
• 100 feet long or longer
• 15 feet wide or wider
• 14 feet high or higher

Vermont does not require that you maintain proof of insurance on file with the Department, however, proof of insurance is required when:

• Requesting a Super Load Permit, or
• Blanket permits that are 100 feet long or longer.

Unless specifically stated on the permit, movement is restricted to daylight hours and shall be made between thirty minutes before sunrise and thirty minutes after sunset. No movement is allowed on state highways for loads in excess of 108,000 pounds, over 10' 6" wide, or over 100' long on any Saturday, Sunday, or Friday afternoon between July 1st and Labor Day. No movement is allowed on holidays observed by the State of Vermont. If the holiday falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday is a legal holiday; if the holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is a legal holiday and these days are restricted as other holidays. See a list of holidays.

Single trip permits are valid for 10 working days. If the move is not made during this time-frame a new permit must be purchased.

Permits can be obtained Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. (except holidays - see the schedule of holidays. In most cases, a permit clerk should take approximately 45 minutes to respond. However, a 4-hour turn-around time has been established to consider the Unit's workload during busy periods.

This is a complex issue. To obtain information about the type of permits available please contact Commercial Vehicles at 802-828-2064 or use our contact form.

This is a complex issue. To obtain information pertaining to the type of permits available please contact Commercial Vehicles at 802-828-2064.

Use our contact forms -

• General Information
• Commercial Vehicles or Commercial Licensing
• Vermont Car Dealers & Inspections Stations
• Enforcement & Safety Division
• Freedom of Information Act
• Commissioners Office

See a list of phone numbers here.

Vermont DMV

120 State Street

Montpelier, Vermont 05603-0001

*NOTICE: Due to the current delays with the United States Postal Service (USPS), mail delivery may take up to two weeks.

See the DMV Records Request information.

You must get a new picture taken at least once for every other renewal. You may get a new photo at any time for any reason (for a fee). Complete the required documents and schedule an appointment to visit an office.

The Safe at Home address confidentiality program, within the Office of the Secretary of State, was implemented to serve victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking.

The goal of the Safe at Home program is to help victims who have relocated or are about to relocate, in their effort to keep their perpetrators from finding them.

Safe at Home has two components: a substitute address service and a protected records service. These services limit a perpetrator’s ability to access public information that could identify the new location of a victim who is in the program. This is not a witness protection program, rather it is a mail forwarding service.

For more information visit the Secretary of State website.

B&W portrait is a byproduct of our cards being printed on polycarbonate (PC). PC has become the de facto card construction for IDs, particularly in the international market. The biggest advantage is that it is a fully fused, monolithic card that can’t be deconstructed to access the personalization data. 

In our previous cards, the personalization was applied to the surface of the card and thus offers an opportunity to attack the card by “opening it up”. 

Polycarbonate cards are personalized by laser writing and the personalization is in the card. Since the card is fully fused, it can’t be opened up to attack. Unfortunately, except with very expensive equipment, it is not possible to laser write a color image.

Yes, the Vermont EDL & EID are designated as acceptable border-crossing documents by DHS under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). Vermont EDL & EID are acceptable for official Federal purposes (i.e., boarding a commercial aircraft, accessing a federal facility, or entering a nuclear power plant).

Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards. These purposes are:

• Accessing Federal facilities
• Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Entering nuclear power plants

Your card will read “limited term” and the expiration date will coincide with the expiration of valid legal status obtained from documentation provided. If your lawful stay has no defined end or expiration date, you will have the option of choosing a 2 or 4 year card.

No. The Driver's License or ID card remains fully valid for all purposes normally associated with a Driver's License or ID card in the form issued.

A Driver's License or ID card marked “limited term” merely signifies that it is issued to a person who is a foreign national with temporary lawful status in the United States and has a shorter term than a regular Driver's License or ID card.

Since 1996 the federal government requires that all states participate in a program that prevents individuals who have had a suspension issued to them in one state (or more than one state) from obtaining a license in another state. A nationwide system tracks all drivers (or potential drivers) to prevent the issuance of a license to a suspended person.

You must notify the DMV within 60 days of issuance if you do not receive your registration/license/title. If DMV is not notified within this timeframe, the purchase of a replacement may be required.

Use our contact form here 

The Driver's Privilege Card is available to anyone who is a Vermont Resident. Issuance of the DPC does not require proof of lawful status or US citizenship.

No

A Driver Privilege Card is a Vermont license or permit that is NOT Real ID compliant.

The Driver Privilege Card is available to anyone who is a Vermont Resident. Issuance of the DPC does not require proof of lawful status or US citizenship.

The defendant on a ticket issued for an overweight violation can be the operator or the carrier. The fines for an overweight violation depend on several factors.  The fines are a set amount per thousand pounds overweight, and vary depending the amount of the overweight. It also depends if the vehicle is operating on a permit, and how many overweight tickets the defendant has been convicted of in the last 12 months. The fines can be found in the Judicial Bureau’s Schedule of Fines under Title 23 VSA Section 1391a at the following website: https://www.vermontjudiciary.org/eforms/Waiver_Penalty_Schedule.pdf

There are several ways a vehicle can be overweight; such as over the registered weight, over tire limits, over an axle weight, or over gross weight.  Depending on which way a vehicle is overweight depends on what there is for a enforcement tolerance.  Depending on the weight violation, a tolerance will vary from a zero tolerance to a 10% tolerance.  It also depends on whether the vehicle is being operated in conformance with a special permit.  However, there is no weight statute that uses the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) as the basis for a vehicle’s legal weight limit.

To get a USDOT number, new applicants must register online via the Unified Registration System. 

In general, a USDOT Number is required if you are operating in interstate commerce and:

You have vehicles that are over 10,000 lbs.
You transport between 9 and 15 passengers (including the driver) for compensation, whether direct or indirect
You transport 16 or more passengers
You haul hazardous materials

Yes, the Vermont EDL & EID are designated as acceptable border-crossing documents by DHS under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). Vermont EDL & EID are acceptable for official Federal purposes (i.e., boarding a commercial aircraft, accessing a federal facility, or entering a nuclear power plant).

You must get a new picture taken at least once for every other renewal. You may get a new photo at any time for any reason (for a fee). Complete the required documents and schedule an appointment to visit an office.

Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards. These purposes are:

• Accessing Federal facilities
• Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Entering nuclear power plants

If you are in Vermont AND you provide instruction for hire, you must be a licensed driving school. For more information about applying for a driving school license visit the Driver Training Instructors page.

Only training providers listed on the TPR can provide ELDT.

Visit our Commercial Driver Training page.

FMCSA defines that training providers can include, but are not limited to, training schools, educational institutions, rural electric cooperatives, motor carriers, state/local governments, school districts, joint labor-management programs, owner-operators, and individuals. These examples are not intended to be a finite list; FMCSA adds them to illustrate the range of entities that could potentially be eligible for listing on the TPR. In addition, FMCSA notes that eligible providers may provide training either on a "for-hire" or "not-for-hire" basis. Examples include motor carriers who provide ELDT at no cost to current or prospective employees, independent training schools charging tuition, and individuals who train family or friends.

The TPR is a system created and managed by FMCSA. The system will list all ELDT providers that are approved by FMCSA and allow ELDT providers to submit ELDT completion information to the TPR. The completion information maintained on the TPR serves as proof that the entry-level driver applicant has completed the required ELDT.

• Any individual that holds a Class A, Class, B, a Passenger (P) Endorsement, and/or School Bus (S) Endorsement, and/or a Hazardous Material (H) Endorsement prior to February 7, 2022.
• Any individual that has a valid Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) issued prior to February 7, 2022, and obtains the CDL before the CLP expires.
• Any individual that qualifies for a waiver under 49 CFR Section 383.

No Commercial Driver License (CDL) entry-level operator may take a CDL skills test to receive a CDL A, CDL B, Passenger (P) Endorsement, or School Bus (S) Endorsement unless the driver has successfully completed a mandatory theory (knowledge) and behind-the-wheel (BTW) training program by a registered CDL ELDT provider/trainer.

Also, any individual seeking a Hazardous Material (H) Endorsement must complete the respective ELDT training prior to taking the Hazardous Material (H) Endorsement knowledge test.

For the most updated list of training providers on the TPR, visit the FMCSA’s ELDT website for details.

To obtain a Hazardous Materials (H) endorsement, the entry-level driver must complete mandatory theory (knowledge) training provided by a training provider listed on the TPR prior to taking the knowledge test for the Hazardous Material (H) endorsement. For more information regarding required training, see the FMCSA’s ELDT Curriculum Summary.

Yes. You will pay the test fee each time you take the test.

All exams are by appointment only.

For all other services, appointments are recommended but not required.

If you need to schedule an appointment, please visit mydmv.vermont.gov or call 888-970-0357.

You are allowed to read the test if necessary but are not allowed to give your child the correct answers.

If you fail a road test, you must wait at least seven days before retaking the test.

If you fail a knowledge test you must wait at least one day before retaking the test.

You may take the test as many times as you wish until you pass.

Vermont DMV

We accept Visa, MasterCard & Discover for online and in-person services.

If you are mailing paperwork that requires payment, send a check or money order.

There is no Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation that prohibits a firearm from being possessed by a commercial vehicle operator while driving a commercial vehicle.  There might be another law or regulation that prohibits this act depending on who the operator is and what jurisdiction the operator is in.

No, you may gift your personally owned vehicle to anyone you choose, but the plates belong to you, not the vehicle. The new owner must apply for new plates and registration under their name.

Exception: some low-number plates can be transferred to a family member.

Yes. Due to the Graduated License Law, you will need to hold your learner permit for a year prior to taking the road test.

Hours vary by location.

Appointments are recommended, visit mydmv.vermont.gov to schedule a visit.

DMV is closed for most Vermont State Holidays.

Vermont law requires that anyone suspended for an alcohol-related offense must complete an alcohol treatment program. The courts generally try to make you aware of this requirement at the time of your hearing, but if even if they fail to tell you about it you must meet this requirement.

If you live in another state, you can take an alcohol treatment program there.

You must contact the Vermont Impaired Driver Rehabilitation Program (IDRP) before enrolling in a program outside of Vermont. Not all alcohol treatment programs are accepted, and you must ensure that you participate in an acceptable program.

Impaired Driver Rehabilitation Program (IDRP)
Vermont Department of Health
108 Cherry Street
Burlington, VT 05401

Phone: 802-651-1574
Fax: 1-866-272-7989
Email: AHS.VDHIDRP@vermont.gov

An Ignition Interlock Device, referred to as an “IID”, is an after-market device which is installed in a vehicle.  The IID is connected to the starter or ignition, or other on-board computer system of a vehicle.  The device prevents a driver from operating the vehicle if the driver has been drinking.  Before starting the vehicle, a driver must blow into the device; if the driver’s BAC is at or over a pre-set limit, 0.02 in Vermont, the IID will not allow the vehicle to start.  Once the vehicle is started, at random times during the operation of the vehicle, the device will prompt the driver to provide another breath sample, referred to as “random retests”.  If the breath sample is not provided, or if the breath sample is at or exceeds a BAC of 0.02, the IID will log the event as a “failure”, and will then signal the vehicle to begin flashing the lights and sounding the horn.  This will continue until the vehicle is turned off, or a clean breath sample has been provided.

The IID collects and stores the information below, which is reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Department of Corrections.  This information is also provided to the Impaired Driver Rehabilitation Program (IDRP).

• The date and time of any use, or attempted use of a vehicle including a photo of the driving compartment.
• The date and time of any attempt to tamper, circumvent or bypass the device.
• The date, time, and alcohol concentration, in grams per 210 liters, of each breath sample provided to the device.
• The date and time of any malfunctions of the device.
• The date and time of any failures to provide retest samples.
• The date and time a “service required” message is issued to the customer by the device.
• The date any service is performed.
• The mileage and hours of operation of the vehicle since the previous service was performed.

The vehicle will not start and the IID will enter a short lockout period of a few minutes.  This lockout period allows an opportunity for the alcohol to dissipate from the mouth and for you to consider the reason for the failed breath alcohol test, for example; is the failure a result of the use of mouthwash, cough syrup, etc., or as a result of consuming too much alcohol.  The IID will record the failure, which will be noted in the data report.  If you make 3 attempts to start a vehicle with a BAC of .04 or above, your IID requirements will be extended for a period of 3 months.  

Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards. These purposes are:

• Accessing Federal facilities
• Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Entering nuclear power plants

No. The Driver's License or ID card remains fully valid for all purposes normally associated with a Driver's License or ID card in the form issued.

A Driver's License or ID card marked “limited term” merely signifies that it is issued to a person who is a foreign national with temporary lawful status in the United States and has a shorter term than a regular Driver's License or ID card.

You must get a new picture taken at least once for every other renewal. You may get a new photo at any time for any reason (for a fee). Complete the required documents and schedule an appointment to visit an office.

Your card will read “limited term” and the expiration date will coincide with the expiration of valid legal status obtained from documentation provided. If your lawful stay has no defined end or expiration date, you will have the option of choosing a 2 or 4 year card.

Yes, the age of the permit holder is not relevant. The licensed driver must be unimpaired and 25 or older.

No. The Driver's License or ID card remains fully valid for all purposes normally associated with a Driver's License or ID card in the form issued.

A Driver's License or ID card marked “limited term” merely signifies that it is issued to a person who is a foreign national with temporary lawful status in the United States and has a shorter term than a regular Driver's License or ID card.

Yes

Also see, Recognition of Nonresident Licenses; Foreign Visitors

No. The receipt acts as your temporary learners permit for 90-days from the date on this receipt.  This must be in your possession when operating a motor vehicle.

DMV will review the information and run checks to verify the information. If the checks don’t come back clear you will be notified to correct your information before a learner permit is sent to you.

You are allowed to read the test if necessary but are not allowed to give your child the correct answers.

If you fail a road test, you must wait at least seven days before retaking the test.

If you fail a knowledge test you must wait at least one day before retaking the test.

You must get a new picture taken at least once for every other renewal. You may get a new photo at any time for any reason (for a fee). Complete the required documents and schedule an appointment to visit an office.

You may take the test as many times as you wish until you pass.

Yes. You will pay the test fee each time you take the test.

Yes. Due to the Graduated License Law, you will need to hold your learner permit for a year prior to taking the road test.

Your card will read “limited term” and the expiration date will coincide with the expiration of valid legal status obtained from documentation provided. If your lawful stay has no defined end or expiration date, you will have the option of choosing a 2 or 4 year card.

No. Endorsements and restrictions cannot be removed or changed online.

It is possible the DMV has conflicting identifying information in your record. Please contact us for assistance.

No. DMV staff do not have access to your renewal letter PIN.

No. You must visit a DMV office with all of the required documents to upgrade to an EDL.

No. The receipt is only to show payment confirmation.

There are no expedited services available.

You may enter a special mailing address if all of the required identifying information is provided.

You will not receive a tracking number. The status of your online license/ID request can be found in the VT Online Portal after logging in with the required information.

No. You will receive a printable confirmation receipt.

7-10 Business days. 

A license can be renewed six (6) months before the expiration date.

For more information on license renewal, dmv.vermont.gov/licenses/renew

Yes, a standard Class D license has a 14 Day grace period. CDL classes A, B & C do not have a grace period.

23 V.S.A. § 611

If you live in another state, you can take an alcohol treatment program there.

You must contact the Vermont Impaired Driver Rehabilitation Program (IDRP) before enrolling in a program outside of Vermont. Not all alcohol treatment programs are accepted, and you must ensure that you participate in an acceptable program.

Impaired Driver Rehabilitation Program (IDRP)
Vermont Department of Health
108 Cherry Street
Burlington, VT 05401

Phone: 802-651-1574
Fax: 1-866-272-7989
Email: AHS.VDHIDRP@vermont.gov

You can pay your reinstatement fee online, or at our main office in Montpelier, or mail your reinstatement fee to Vermont DMV, 120 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05603-0001 (to the attention of Driver Improvement), together with a paper stating that you are paying your reinstatement fee and providing your full name, your date of birth and your current mailing address. DO NOT MAIL CASH.

Notices of suspension are mailed to your address as it appears on our computer system at the time that the suspension is issued. If you have moved and have not notified this Department of your new address (as required by law) you may not receive your written notice of suspension.

Once a suspension for failure to pay a fine on a ticket or a citation goes into effect you must meet all requirements for reinstatement. In addition to paying your fine to the court you must pay a reinstatement fee to the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles. If you have paid your fine but have not paid your reinstatement fee you cannot be reinstated. There is no statute of limitations on driver suspensions ...they remain in effect until all requirements have been met and this Department has issued a notice of reinstatement.

The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles does not accept payments for fines. These must be paid directly to the appropriate court.

Vermont law requires that anyone suspended for an alcohol-related offense must complete an alcohol treatment program. The courts generally try to make you aware of this requirement at the time of your hearing, but if even if they fail to tell you about it you must meet this requirement.

In Vermont there is no statute of limitations on driver suspensions. All driver suspensions remain on an individual's record and in effect until the individual has complied with all requirements related to the suspension and a reinstatement has been issued.

Since 1996 the federal government requires that all states participate in a program that prevents individuals who have had a suspension issued to them in one state (or more than one state) from obtaining a license in another state. A nationwide system tracks all drivers (or potential drivers) to prevent the issuance of a license to a suspended person.

No, the reinstatement fee is not required if the only suspension on your record is for insurance purposes.

The Vermont legislature passed a law that became effective on April 29, 1998 making it mandatory for an individual to file Financial Responsibility Insurance for all criminal alcohol-related offenses. In 2000 the Vermont legislature passed a law that became effective on July 1, 2000 making it mandatory for an individual to file Financial Responsibility Insurance for a civil alcohol-related offenses.

Go to mydmv.vermont.gov, and click the ‘Check Vehicle for Vermont Liens’ under the Vehicle Inquiry section. Select the vehicle type (Boat or Vehicle) and then enter the identification number. Check the checkbox to verify that you are not a robot, and click the ‘Search’ button.

The results of the vehicle search are displayed. Please note that liens held by individuals will not display personal information; you would need to contact the DMV for further information if needed.

Your card will read “limited term” and the expiration date will coincide with the expiration of valid legal status obtained from documentation provided. If your lawful stay has no defined end or expiration date, you will have the option of choosing a 2 or 4 year card.

No. The Driver's License or ID card remains fully valid for all purposes normally associated with a Driver's License or ID card in the form issued.

A Driver's License or ID card marked “limited term” merely signifies that it is issued to a person who is a foreign national with temporary lawful status in the United States and has a shorter term than a regular Driver's License or ID card.

All exams are by appointment only.

For all other services, appointments are recommended but not required.

If you need to schedule an appointment, please visit mydmv.vermont.gov or call 888-970-0357.

23 V.S.A. § 3304 defines motorboat classes as follows

Motorboats shall be divided into four classes as follows:

• Class A - Less than 16 feet in length.
• Class 1 - 16 feet or over and less than 26 feet in length.
• Class 2 - 26 feet or over and less than 40 feet in length.
• Class 3 - 40 feet or over.

Yes.

In order to convert an old school bus into an RV/Motor Home you must meet the following requirement:

Vermont Law 32 VSA §8902(11) defines a “Motor Home”

“means a new or used pleasure car designed to provide temporary living quarters, built into the integral part of,  or permanently attached to, a self-propelled motor vehicle chassis or van. The vehicle must contain at least four of the following facilities; cooking, refrigeration or icebox, self-contained toilet, heating and/or air conditioning, a portable water supply system including a sink and faucet, separate 110-125 volt electrical power supply, and/or an LP gas supply.”

If it does not have four of these items the use of the vehicle cannot be changed from a bus/school bus to an RV. Just taking out a “few seats” and adding “some beds” does not in itself change the purpose of the vehicle. You would still need to install at least four more of the above items. If you fail to do that the vehicle’s purpose would remain a school bus which would require the operator to have the appropriate license and endorsements. 

Additionally; the vehicle must be painted a color different than school bus yellow and the eight-way light system must be removed.  

Go to mydmv.vermont.gov and click the ‘Check Personalized Plate Availability’ link under the Vehicle Inquiry section. Enter the Vehicle Type and Plate Type of the plate you would like to check, followed by the text to check in the Plate ID field. Check the checkbox to verify that you are not a robot, then click the ‘Check Availability’ button to run the search.

The check’s results will be displayed in the space beneath the plate image on the right-hand side of the screen.

In-Person: Complete the Replacement Registration Form (form #VD-040) and schedule an appointment to visit a Vermont DMV Office.

By Mail: Complete the Replacement Registration Form (form #VD-040) and mail with any required fees to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Online: Go to mydmv.vermont.gov, and log into your myDMV account. Once logged in, select the ‘Update My Address’ link in the I Want To panel. The first address available for changing is your mailing address for the vehicle; you can choose to change this address or not. The next address displayed is the physical address, which you can choose to change. Selecting ‘Yes’ to either of these options will bring up fields where you can enter the new address. At the end of the process, click ‘Submit’ to process the request.

Click the ‘Estimate Tax Due on a Vehicle’ button at the center of the home screen or the ‘Estimate Tax Due on a Vehicle’ link under the Vehicle Inquiry section. Enter the type of vehicle and then the required information (e.g., VIN, salvage status, odometer reading, purchase date/price). Additionally, enter any trade-in vehicles that you would be reporting. Then click ‘Get Estimate’. The estimated tax due is displayed.

Non-Login: Click the ‘Renew My Vehicle Registration’ button at the center of the home screen or the ‘Renew My Registration’ under the Vehicle Registration section. You should review the information in the Getting Started section and will need to acknowledge that you are not a robot before continuing to the next screen.

Enter your vehicle type, the last four characters of your vehicle’s VIN, and the plate number. Click ‘Next’. If myDMV is able to find the vehicle, you will see the vehicle returned on this page. Select your desired registration period (1- or 2-year) and enter your email address where your confirmation will be sent. Click ‘Next’ to review the fees and ‘Next’ again to review and submit.

Then, follow the prompts to complete payment, after which your renewal will be processed.

Login: Once inside your account, click the ‘Renew Registration’ link for any of your listed vehicles. The process will be similar for non-login renewals listed above, with the addition of the option to change your vehicle’s address and/or request a replacement plate.

Under the Vehicle Registration section, click the ‘Log In to Manage My Vehicles’ link. Enter the email address and password associated with your myDMV (and myVermont) account. If you need to create an account, please follow the separate steps to create your account and link it to your myDMV access.

Please note that, as of yet, your myDMV account will apply to your vehicles only.

Yes, payments will be effective the day they are made. However, payments made after approximately 6:00 pm may take additional time to process; Regardless of the time of payment, it will be dated the day that you made the payment.

myDMV has many convenient features for you to manage your vehicles and make inquiries related to the Vermont DMV. myDMV removes the barrier of requiring you to come into the office or mail in documents for certain services. You can do the following activities with myDMV:

• Vehicle Registration
  • Renew your registration
  • Request a replacement registration/plate
  • Apply for a temporary registration & plate
  • Log in to manage your vehicles
    • Note: Logged-in offerings are more comprehensive. For example, you can update your address or change your plate during a logged-in renewal but not during a non-logged-in renewal.

• Vehicle Inquiry
  • Estimate tax due on a vehicle
  • Check vehicle for Vermont liens
  • Check personalized plate availability
  • Request sample plates
  • Claim a diesel fuel refund
  • Order Vermont Strong plates

• Driver's License, Permit, and ID
  • Renew/replace your license/ID
  • Change your license/ID address
  • Apply for a learner’s or motorcycle permit
  • Register for a motorcycle course
  • Apply for a MFSAB Type II knowledge test

Please note that your myDMV account will only contain options for managing your vehicles or business accounts. License management will still be in a separate application.

Online services for commercial vehicle accounts have been brought into myDMV from the former CVO Online as well. These options include the following:

• Fuel Tax Account
  • File and pay for Monthly Fuel returns
  • Renew your bond
  • If you qualify, request a bond release at the time of renewal

• IFTA Account
  • File and pay for Quarterly IFTA returns
  • Request and/or replace IFTA decals
  • Renew your IFTA license

• IRP Account
  • Renew IRP vehicles
  • Request to add/delete/refund/change a vehicle
  • Replace decals, cab card and/or plates
  • Request temporary registration
  • Transfer plates

• Railroad Tax Account
  • File and pay for Quarterly Railroad returns

• Car Rental Tax Account
  • File and pay for Monthly/Quarterly Rental returns
  • Renew your bond

• Diesel Exemption Certificate
  • Renew your certificate

• Diesel Dealer License
  • Renew your license

• Diesel Refund
  • Request a diesel refund

• Additional Activities
  • Viewing and printing your license(s) for free
  • Viewing all letters
  • Go Paperless
  • Viewing and printing all filed returns
  • Messaging the CVO Unit
  • Granting Third Party access
  • Update your contact information

Go to mydmv.vermont.gov. On the home screen, in the upper right-hand corner, select the ‘Sign in with myVermont’ button. On the next screen, look at the bottom of the panel, where it says, ‘Don’t have an account? Sign up. ‘Click the ‘Sign up’ link.

myDMV access is limited to customers with a Vermont driver’s license, permit, or non-driver ID. You will be asked to submit information from your issued license/permit/ID to finalize your myDMV account.

In-Person: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and schedule an appointment to visit a Vermont DMV Office.

By Mail: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and mail with any required fees to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Online: Go to mydmv.vermont.gov, click the ‘Change Address on My License’ button at the center of the home screen, or click the ‘Change My License/ID Address’ link under the Driver License, Permit and ID section. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, license/permit/ID number, and two forms of identification.

The title to be changed must contain owner information that matches the owner information on the current vehicle registration. You must complete a registration application form providing an updated vehicle odometer reading and updated owner information. Each individual currently listed on the title must sign on the back of the title (as "sellers") and fill in the name of the "buyer(s)." If there are two owners, you must indicate the relationship of the two owners.

See types of vehicle ownership for more information.

If your name is different than the one shown on your birth certificate or other document used to establish identity and date of birth, you must provide certified copies of the legal documents that connect the name on the document used to establish identity and date of birth to your current name. The following documents are acceptable.

Court-ordered name change

This includes:

• Orders under a petition for a name change.
• Orders for name change in a divorce decree or decree of annulment.
• Orders for name change in a decree of adoption.

The court order must contain your prior full legal name, your court-ordered full legal name and your date of birth. It must be a certified copy and have the stamp or raised seal of the issuing court.

Marriage certificate

The marriage certificate must be issued by a state office of vital statistics or equivalent agency in the state or country where you were married and must be a certified copy with a stamp or raised seal of the issuing authority. A church, chapel, or similarly issued certificate is not acceptable.

In all cases, the documents must connect the name shown on your birth certificate or other document used to establish identity and date of birth to your current name. You do not have to document a complete listing of all the names you may have previously used, as long as the documents you provide clearly connect the two.

Social Security Administration

If you need to correct or update information at the Social Security Administration, do so several days before you apply for a Driver's License or ID card. For information on how to do this, visit socialsecurity.gov.

No. Name changes must be done in person at a DMV office location.

You can use NMVTIS or carfax.com to determine where the vehicle was last registered/titled.

You can contact us or visit an office, and we can check and advise what it is, what state it is from, and provide the title number.

Use NMVTIS or carfax.com to determine where the vehicle was last registered/titled.

Obtain the title or the registration certificate from the other state and have bills of sale from the last registered/titled owner to you (the customer)

1. Complete the Affidavit of Non-titled Vehicle form (VT-025).
2. Have a VIN verification completed.
3. Provide copies of bills of sale.
4. The title will be branded with "undisclosed lien".

There are several ways a vehicle can be overweight; such as over the registered weight, over tire limits, over an axle weight, or over gross weight.  Depending on which way a vehicle is overweight depends on what there is for a enforcement tolerance.  Depending on the weight violation, a tolerance will vary from a zero tolerance to a 10% tolerance.  It also depends on whether the vehicle is being operated in conformance with a special permit.  However, there is no weight statute that uses the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) as the basis for a vehicle’s legal weight limit.

The defendant on a ticket issued for an overweight violation can be the operator or the carrier. The fines for an overweight violation depend on several factors.  The fines are a set amount per thousand pounds overweight, and vary depending the amount of the overweight. It also depends if the vehicle is operating on a permit, and how many overweight tickets the defendant has been convicted of in the last 12 months. The fines can be found in the Judicial Bureau’s Schedule of Fines under Title 23 VSA Section 1391a at the following website: https://www.vermontjudiciary.org/eforms/Waiver_Penalty_Schedule.pdf

Vermont DMV

We accept Visa, MasterCard & Discover for online and in-person services.

If you are mailing paperwork that requires payment, send a check or money order.

If additional permits are required and the information contained in the original survey is not changed in any manner (including the routes) the Engineering Survey is valid for 6 months.

This is a complex issue. To obtain information pertaining to the type of permits available please contact Commercial Vehicles at 802-828-2064.

This is a complex issue. To obtain information about the type of permits available please contact Commercial Vehicles at 802-828-2064 or use our contact form.

Permits can be obtained Monday through Friday from 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. (except holidays - see the schedule of holidays. In most cases, a permit clerk should take approximately 45 minutes to respond. However, a 4-hour turn-around time has been established to consider the Unit's workload during busy periods.

Single trip permits are valid for 10 working days. If the move is not made during this time-frame a new permit must be purchased.

Vermont does not require that you maintain proof of insurance on file with the Department, however, proof of insurance is required when:

• Requesting a Super Load Permit, or
• Blanket permits that are 100 feet long or longer.

Permits that meet or exceed the following perimeters:

• 150,000 pounds or more
• 100 feet long or longer
• 15 feet wide or wider
• 14 feet high or higher

See the Application and Requirements (form #CVO-106).

Engineering Reviews can take up to 10 working days.

The defendant on a ticket issued for an overweight violation can be the operator or the carrier. The fines for an overweight violation depend on several factors.  The fines are a set amount per thousand pounds overweight, and vary depending the amount of the overweight. It also depends if the vehicle is operating on a permit, and how many overweight tickets the defendant has been convicted of in the last 12 months. The fines can be found in the Judicial Bureau’s Schedule of Fines under Title 23 VSA Section 1391a at the following website: https://www.vermontjudiciary.org/eforms/Waiver_Penalty_Schedule.pdf

Unless specifically stated on the permit, movement is restricted to daylight hours and shall be made between thirty minutes before sunrise and thirty minutes after sunset. No movement is allowed on state highways for loads in excess of 108,000 pounds, over 10' 6" wide, or over 100' long on any Saturday, Sunday, or Friday afternoon between July 1st and Labor Day. No movement is allowed on holidays observed by the State of Vermont. If the holiday falls on a Saturday, the preceding Friday is a legal holiday; if the holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is a legal holiday and these days are restricted as other holidays. See a list of holidays.

Go to mydmv.vermont.gov and click the ‘Request Sample Plates’ hyperlink on the Vehicle Inquiry panel. You should review the information in the Getting Started section and will need to acknowledge that you are not a robot before continuing to the next section.  

Enter the Requester’s name. Use the ‘Add a Plate’ hyperlink to add the sample plates you would like to purchase. Select the plate type and enter the number of plates you want to order. Click ‘Next’.  

Enter the mailing address. Click the ‘Verify Address’ button and confirm the verified address. Click ‘Next’ to continue.  

Confirm the number of plates and transaction fees. Click ‘Next’.

Review the name, mailing address, and amount due for the order. Click ‘Submit’.

Review the items in the cart and click ‘Checkout.’

Then, follow the prompts to complete the payment.  

Click Confirm to submit the payment, after which the sample plate order has been completed.  

Go to mydmv.vermont.gov and click the ‘Check Personalized Plate Availability’ link under the Vehicle Inquiry section. Enter the Vehicle Type and Plate Type of the plate you would like to check, followed by the text to check in the Plate ID field. Check the checkbox to verify that you are not a robot, then click the ‘Check Availability’ button to run the search.

The check’s results will be displayed in the space beneath the plate image on the right-hand side of the screen.

You are not required to return plates to DMV. If you want to return plates, please mail them to us. If you are selling your car, do NOT leave your plates on the car.

Date validation stickers are no longer required.

Act 41 was signed into law on June 1, 2023. It eliminated the annual (or biennial) validation sticker that previously appeared on license plates.

An Ignition Interlock Device Restricted License referred to as an "RDL," allows you to drive non-commercial vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device while your regular license is suspended or revoked for an alcohol-related driving offense. You are granted a conditional reinstatement ahead of your normal eligibility date if you participate in the Ignition Interlock Program.  If granted an RDL, you must adhere to all of the terms and requirements associated with an RDL; failing to do so will result in an extension of your IID requirements.  More information on RDL...   

An Ignition Interlock Device Restricted License, referred to as an “RDL”, allows you to drive  non-commercial vehicles equipped with an ignition interlock device, while your Vermont license is suspended or revoked for an alcohol-related driving under the influence offense.  You are granted a conditional reinstatement ahead of your normal eligibility date if you participate in the Ignition Interlock Program

Application for an RDL must be made by contacting the Department, by phone, at 802-828-2061. 

The RDL Unit will send a letter a short time prior to your actual release date advising you of when you may procure a corrected license without the IID restriction.  If you do not receive a letter you may contact DMV at 802-828-2061 to verify that you are eligible to have the interlock removed.

Your RDL must be renewed on a yearly basis. A renewal notice and an Application for Ignition Interlock Device Restricted Driver’s License will be mailed to you 30 days before your RDL expires. You will need to complete the application and return it to DMV with the appropriate renewal fee of $125.00. If you have a motorcycle endorsement and wish to keep it, you will need to include an additional $3.00. If you do not renew your RDL on or by the expiration, you will be issued a suspension for failing to renew your RDL and will remain under suspension until you renew your RDL and pay the Reinstatement Fee.

Note:  The expiration date of your initial RDL will expire on your second birthday after the issuance of your initial RDL. You will then need to renew your RDL on a yearly basis thereafter.

No. The Driver's License or ID card remains fully valid for all purposes normally associated with a Driver's License or ID card in the form issued.

A Driver's License or ID card marked “limited term” merely signifies that it is issued to a person who is a foreign national with temporary lawful status in the United States and has a shorter term than a regular Driver's License or ID card.

TSA will NOT accept a Temporary License/ID as a standalone document. It will accept the expiring or expired card with the Temporary License/ID as proof of the renewal. Customers should visit TSA’s website which contains detailed information on the identity documents they will accept: tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

No

Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” The Act established minimum security standards for state-issued driver's licenses and identification cards and prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards. These purposes are:

• Accessing Federal facilities
• Boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft
• Entering nuclear power plants

Yes, the Vermont EDL & EID are designated as acceptable border-crossing documents by DHS under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI). Vermont EDL & EID are acceptable for official Federal purposes (i.e., boarding a commercial aircraft, accessing a federal facility, or entering a nuclear power plant).

Your card will read “limited term” and the expiration date will coincide with the expiration of valid legal status obtained from documentation provided. If your lawful stay has no defined end or expiration date, you will have the option of choosing a 2 or 4 year card.

No, not from Vermont.

Several states, including Florida, will collect taxes equal to the rate of your home state. In this example, the Vermont tax is 6%, so they will charge you 6% tax. That tax money is not transferred to Vermont. The only way to get any portion of it refunded to you is to contact the state that collected the tax.

List of DMVs from other states.

Residents must annually register motor vehicles owned or leased for a period of more than 30 days and operated by them, unless currently registered in Vermont. A Resident who has moved to Vermont from another jurisdiction must register their motor vehicles within 60 days of moving to Vermont. It is illegal for a person to operate a motor vehicle or draw a trailer or semi-trailer on any highway unless such vehicle is registered.

See, Purchase & Use Tax information

Someone else can complete the form for you, but the owner(s) must sign and date the application.

If the application is signed by someone who is acting as the "authorized agent" of the owner(s), you must include a completed DMV Power of Attorney (form VN-101).

Vehicles not displaying a valid Vermont inspection sticker must be inspected within 15 days of registration. If the vehicle is driven within these 15 days (without a valid inspection sticker affixed), the vehicle must still be in good mechanical condition and meet the Vermont Safety Inspection Standards.

Remember, you must present an insurance identification card to the inspection station to show proof of insurance or the vehicle cannot be inspected.

Both owners listed on the title must sign it over to whoever will remain on the title (in section one on the back of the title). Fill out sections 1-4 and 8 on the registration application and mail the title and registration application to our main office in Montpelier with the appropriate fees.

You must also provide an updated odometer reading.

If one of the owners is deceased, attach a copy of that person’s death certificate.

No, not necessarily. For more detail visit the "Moving to Vermont" page.

Date validation stickers are no longer required.

Act 41 was signed into law on June 1, 2023. It eliminated the annual (or biennial) validation sticker that previously appeared on license plates.

You must notify the DMV within 60 days of issuance if you do not receive your registration/license/title. If DMV is not notified within this timeframe, the purchase of a replacement may be required.

Use our contact form here 

No. You must use the Vermont DMV Vehicle Power of Attorney form (VN-101)

In-Person: Complete the Replacement Registration Form (form #VD-040) and schedule an appointment to visit a Vermont DMV Office.

By Mail: Complete the Replacement Registration Form (form #VD-040) and mail with any required fees to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Online: Go to mydmv.vermont.gov, and log into your myDMV account. Once logged in, select the ‘Update My Address’ link in the I Want To panel. The first address available for changing is your mailing address for the vehicle; you can choose to change this address or not. The next address displayed is the physical address, which you can choose to change. Selecting ‘Yes’ to either of these options will bring up fields where you can enter the new address. At the end of the process, click ‘Submit’ to process the request.

When you purchase your leased vehicle, you change the ownership of the vehicle. The lessor owns a leased vehicle with the lessee listed on the registration. Following a lease buyout, you must re-register and re-title the vehicle in your name.  When you do this, the registration on your leased vehicle ends, and you begin a new registration term; the time remaining on the leased vehicle’s registration does not transfer to the new vehicle.

If you renew the registration on a leased vehicle immediately before you buy out your lease, that registration time will not transfer to the new vehicle.

When you purchase a leased vehicle, the lessor should provide you with the title of the vehicle signed over to you. Bring that title and bill of sale to any DMV office to re-register and retitle the vehicle in your name.

You will be responsible for a new registration fee, title fee, and 6% purchase and use tax on the vehicle's residual value. You may keep your existing plates, but the time on those plates will start over when you re-register the vehicle.

A registration can be renewed sixty (60) days before expiration.

For more information on registration renewal, dmv.vermont.gov/registrations/renew

No

Date validation stickers are no longer required.

Act 41 was signed into law on June 1, 2023. It eliminated the annual (or biennial) validation sticker that previously appeared on license plates.

Yes. At the next renewal, we can prorate the fees and renew for a minimum of 12 months and a maximum of 24 months, allowing you to select the month it will be due in future years.

Call us for the correct fees and renew by mail, or visit any location up to 2 months before the registration expiration month.

Non-Login: Click the ‘Renew My Vehicle Registration’ button at the center of the home screen or the ‘Renew My Registration’ under the Vehicle Registration section. You should review the information in the Getting Started section and will need to acknowledge that you are not a robot before continuing to the next screen.

Enter your vehicle type, the last four characters of your vehicle’s VIN, and the plate number. Click ‘Next’. If myDMV is able to find the vehicle, you will see the vehicle returned on this page. Select your desired registration period (1- or 2-year) and enter your email address where your confirmation will be sent. Click ‘Next’ to review the fees and ‘Next’ again to review and submit.

Then, follow the prompts to complete payment, after which your renewal will be processed.

Login: Once inside your account, click the ‘Renew Registration’ link for any of your listed vehicles. The process will be similar for non-login renewals listed above, with the addition of the option to change your vehicle’s address and/or request a replacement plate.

The Safe at Home address confidentiality program, within the Office of the Secretary of State, was implemented to serve victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking.

The goal of the Safe at Home program is to help victims who have relocated or are about to relocate, in their effort to keep their perpetrators from finding them.

Safe at Home has two components: a substitute address service and a protected records service. These services limit a perpetrator’s ability to access public information that could identify the new location of a victim who is in the program. This is not a witness protection program, rather it is a mail forwarding service.

For more information visit the Secretary of State website.

Yes. They don't need to be accompanied by a licensed CDL operator with an "S" endorsement. School bus signs and lights do not need to be covered.

Employers of drivers holding CDL's must have a drug testing program. Drivers holding CDL's are subject to random testing. These requirements do not impact individuals holding a Type II endorsement.

Contact Vermont League of Cities and Towns, Vermont Student Transportation Association, Vermont Truck and Bus Association or Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

• Copies of physicals (to include vision and hearing screening),
• Initial 3-year driving record,
• Documentation indicating all students are participating in emergency evacuations twice a year, and
• Records of vehicle pre-trip inspections.

Contractors also need to be in compliance with all CDL driver qualification requirements and regulations (FMCSR 391).

School contractors need to be in compliance with all CDL driver qualification requirements and regulations (FMCSR 391). It should be noted while there is an exemption for "to and from school" operation, there is no such exemption for trips performed by contractors. School transportation performed by a state or political subdivision of a state (i.e., municipalities) are exempt from some CDL requirements. For more information see FMCSR 390.3 (a), applicability, (f)(1)(2) exceptions (see interpretations for this section).

For a Type I school bus: No.

For a Type II school bus: Yes.

A DOT physical is good for up to two (2) years and will be accepted by DMV (including for testing purposes) as long as valid, regardless of issue and expiration date.

In order for a school bus to obtain a municipal registration it must be owned by a municipality and used entirely by that municipality or any other municipality. A municipality may allow one of its buses to be used by another municipality. Compensation is not relevant.

According to the National Highway Safety Transportation Administration:

“Students are about 70 times more likely to get to school safely when taking a bus instead of traveling by car. That’s because school buses are the most regulated vehicles on the road; they’re designed to be safer than passenger vehicles in preventing crashes and injuries; and in every State, stop-arm laws protect children from other motorists.

Seat belts have been required on passenger cars since 1968, and 49 States and the District of Columbia have enacted laws requiring the use of seat belts in passenger cars and light trucks. There is no question that seat belts play an important role in keeping passengers safe in these vehicles. But school buses are different by design, including a different kind of safety restraint system that works extremely well.

Large school buses are heavier and distribute crash forces differently than passenger cars and light trucks do. Because of these differences, bus passengers experience much less crash force than those in passenger cars, light trucks, and vans.

NHTSA decided the best way to provide crash protection to passengers of large school buses is through a concept called “compartmentalization.” This requires that the interior of large buses protect children without them needing to buckle up. Through compartmentalization, children are protected from crashes by strong, closely-spaced seats that have energy-absorbing seat backs.

Small school buses (with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less) must be equipped with lap and/or lap/shoulder belts at all designated seating positions. Since the sizes and weights of small school buses are closer to those of passenger cars and trucks, seat belts in those vehicles are necessary to provide occupant protection.”

Some states have passed legislation requiring school buses to have seatbelts in them.  As of now, Vermont has not.  Some school districts and/or transportation providers have also mandated seatbelts be in the school buses they use.

No. DMV policy states "School bus mechanics will be required to possess, at a minimum, a Class B CDL with a "P" (passenger) endorsement to operate an empty school bus." This applies only to inspection of Type I School Buses. For Type II School Buses the inspection mechanic does not need a CDL or a Type II School Bus endorsement.

If the driver meets all qualifications for a Vermont Type II School Bus endorsement a card will be issued to the individual allowing them to drive a Type II School Bus in this state. These requirements include attending a Vermont school bus clinic, passing all required tests (knowledge, vision, and skill tests), and submitting a medical form.

No, the school bus endorsement must be added by the state that issued the CDL.

Type I School Buses must be National School Bus Glossy Yellow. It is legal for the hood and fenders to be lusterless black. Type II School Buses, manufactured after January 1, 2000, must be painted school bus yellow.

If the bus is garaged in Vermont it must be registered in Vermont. Vehicles incidentally in Vermont are not required to be registered in Vermont if they are here temporarily and will soon be returning to their home garage.

The School Board has the authority and responsibility to establish bus routes and stops. The school bussing coordinator should also be consulted. When the stop is on a state highway, the Vermont Agency of Transportation can be consulted and may send someone out to look at the stop and put up a sign if warranted.

Online: Update your weight online.

In-Person: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and schedule an appointment to visit a Vermont DMV Office.

By Mail: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and mail with any required fees to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Online: Update your height online.

In-Person: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and schedule an appointment to visit a Vermont DMV Office.

By Mail: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and mail with any required fees to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Online: Update your gender online.

In-Person: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and schedule an appointment to visit a Vermont DMV Office.

By Mail: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and mail with any required fees to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Online: Update your eye color online.

In-Person: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and schedule an appointment to visit a Vermont DMV Office.

By Mail: Complete the Replacement License Form (form #VL-040) and mail with any required fees to:

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, VT 05603-0001

Social Security Number Verification System is an application that allows employers and third-party representatives to verify employees' names and Social Security numbers (SSNs) against Social Security records.

See SSA for more information.

No, not from Vermont.

Several states, including Florida, will collect taxes equal to the rate of your home state. In this example, the Vermont tax is 6%, so they will charge you 6% tax. That tax money is not transferred to Vermont. The only way to get any portion of it refunded to you is to contact the state that collected the tax.

List of DMVs from other states.

The documentation fee, which represents a charge for the preparation and handling of sale documents regardless of whether or not the vehicle is financed, should be included in the overall purchase price of the vehicle and is therefore subject to the Purchase and Use Tax.

No, you may gift your personally owned vehicle to anyone you choose, but the plates belong to you, not the vehicle. The new owner must apply for new plates and registration under their name.

Exception: some low-number plates can be transferred to a family member.

Click the ‘Estimate Tax Due on a Vehicle’ button at the center of the home screen or the ‘Estimate Tax Due on a Vehicle’ link under the Vehicle Inquiry section. Enter the type of vehicle and then the required information (e.g., VIN, salvage status, odometer reading, purchase date/price). Additionally, enter any trade-in vehicles that you would be reporting. Then click ‘Get Estimate’. The estimated tax due is displayed.

The Temporary License/ID contains a black and white image, demographic information (name, address, etc.), and credential information (endorsements, restrictions, etc.). The Temporary License/ID also contains the expiration date of the temporary document as well as a website to track the status of your permanent card.

TSA will NOT accept a Temporary License/ID as a standalone document. It will accept the expiring or expired card with the Temporary License/ID as proof of the renewal. Customers should visit TSA’s website which contains detailed information on the identity documents they will accept: tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification

Yes, your temporary Driver's License is valid in every US State.

You can apply for a 60-day temporary registration/plate that you can display on your vehicle until you are able to come into a DMV office to complete your full registration. Click the ‘Apply for a Temporary Registration & Plate’ link under the Vehicle Registration section. You should review the information on the Getting Started section and will need to acknowledge that you are not a robot before continuing to the next screen.

Enter your Vermont driver’s license/permit/ID number, as well as the Document Discriminator number available on your physical card. Then enter your last name, the vehicle type for the vehicle you are applying for, and the VIN. Click ‘Next’ to progress to the section where you can verify the year, make, model, and color of the vehicle. Click ‘Next’ to fill out details about you as a customer, including your email and street addresses.

The next sections allow you to verify the fees, declare your certifications, and review a summary of the application. Click ‘Submit’ to process the request and progress to payment.

You can apply for a 60-day temporary registration/plate that you can display on your vehicle until you are able to come into a DMV office to complete your full registration. Click the ‘Apply for a Temporary Registration & Plate’ link under the Vehicle Registration section. You should review the information on the Getting Started section and will need to acknowledge that you are not a robot before continuing to the next screen.

Enter your Vermont driver’s license/permit/ID number, as well as the Document Discriminator number available on your physical card. Then enter your last name, the vehicle type for the vehicle you are applying for, and the VIN. Click ‘Next’ to progress to the section where you can verify the year, make, model, and color of the vehicle. Click ‘Next’ to fill out details about you as a customer, including your email and street addresses.

The next sections allow you to verify the fees, declare your certifications, and review a summary of the application. Click ‘Submit’ to process the request and progress to payment.

Use NMVTIS or carfax.com to determine where the vehicle was last registered/titled.

Obtain the title or the registration certificate from the other state and have bills of sale from the last registered/titled owner to you (the customer)

1. Complete the Affidavit of Non-titled Vehicle form (VT-025).
2. Have a VIN verification completed.
3. Provide copies of bills of sale.
4. The title will be branded with "undisclosed lien".

The exact circumstances in which owners must take out a Bonded Title vary case by case. However, in most cases, if you own or wish to buy a vehicle, trailer, vessel, snowmobile, or all-terrain vehicle that lacks a title or if that title is incomplete, then a Bonded Title is necessary.

The central use of Bonded Titles is to act as a form of financial protection for potentially harmed parties. However, it also holds benefits for the bondholder. It can allow the bondholder to possess proof of ownership instead of an incomplete, non-existent, or lost title bond.

This is essential, as proof of legal ownership is necessary for buying insurance or selling the vehicle, trailer, vessel, snowmobile, or all-terrain vehicle. The bond may also be passed between owners if the vehicle, trailer, vessel, snowmobile, or all-terrain vehicle is sold, in much the same way a title transfer occurs when an original title is present.

No. You must use the Vermont DMV Vehicle Power of Attorney form (VN-101)

Go to mydmv.vermont.gov, and click the ‘Check Vehicle for Vermont Liens’ under the Vehicle Inquiry section. Select the vehicle type (Boat or Vehicle) and then enter the identification number. Check the checkbox to verify that you are not a robot, and click the ‘Search’ button.

The results of the vehicle search are displayed. Please note that liens held by individuals will not display personal information; you would need to contact the DMV for further information if needed.

You do not have to get a title, but you may do so by completing a registration application and submitting it to this department with the title fee and a copy of your registration.

Yes, but you must provide the registration certificate to the new owner as proof of ownership.

A bonded title, also known as a Certificate of Title Surety Bond or Lost Title Bond, is a document that establishes who owns a vehicle, trailer, vessel, snowmobile, or all-terrain vehicle. A bonded title can be used instead of a traditional title to register, get insurance for, or sell the vehicle, trailer, vessel, snowmobile, or all-terrain vehicle. 

You can use NMVTIS or carfax.com to determine where the vehicle was last registered/titled.

You can contact us or visit an office, and we can check and advise what it is, what state it is from, and provide the title number.

Yes, as long as we can verify that you were the last registered owner of this vehicle in Vermont.

You must notify the DMV within 60 days of issuance if you do not receive your registration/license/title. If DMV is not notified within this timeframe, the purchase of a replacement may be required.

Use our contact form here 

When you purchase your leased vehicle, you change the ownership of the vehicle. The lessor owns a leased vehicle with the lessee listed on the registration. Following a lease buyout, you must re-register and re-title the vehicle in your name.  When you do this, the registration on your leased vehicle ends, and you begin a new registration term; the time remaining on the leased vehicle’s registration does not transfer to the new vehicle.

If you renew the registration on a leased vehicle immediately before you buy out your lease, that registration time will not transfer to the new vehicle.

When you purchase a leased vehicle, the lessor should provide you with the title of the vehicle signed over to you. Bring that title and bill of sale to any DMV office to re-register and retitle the vehicle in your name.

You will be responsible for a new registration fee, title fee, and 6% purchase and use tax on the vehicle's residual value. You may keep your existing plates, but the time on those plates will start over when you re-register the vehicle.

Yes, see 23 V.S.A. § 1222 Inspection of registered vehicles

No

Have your emissions problem diagnosed and determine if the repair is covered under emissions warranty. You will need to make the repair and return for a re-test to get a pass sticker.

Federal law requires Vermont to have an emissions testing program. Ensuring your vehicle is in proper working order allows for;

• Early detection of defects that lead to repairs that improve vehicle performance and fuel economy.
• Repairing a defect before it gets worse saves money.
• Protecting our environment and our health by identifying vehicle problems that cause increased air pollution.

Depending on the model year and mileage of your vehicle, emissions system repairs may be covered by the vehicle manufacturer. Vermont law requires that a vehicle’s entire emissions control system be warranted for a minimum of 3 years or 50,000 miles. Warranty coverage for the more expensive emissions control components is extended to at least 7 years or 70,000 miles, and the catalytic converter is covered up to 8 years or 80,000 miles. Some vehicles’ emissions control systems are warranted up to 15 years or 150,000 miles! Be sure to check your owner’s manual or warranty booklet! For more information on warranty coverage visit: http://dec.vermont.gov/ sites/dec/files/aqc/mobilesources/documents/ Warranty.pdf

A scan tool with generic OBD II capability is necessary to perform the required check. A scan tool is a very useful device which is commonly used to assist in the diagnosis and repair of a variety of vehicle problems. Many inspection stations already own scan tools which can also be used to perform the required OBD check, but those inspection stations which do not will need to have one in order to inspect 1996 and newer vehicles. At a minimum, scan tools must be capable of :

1. automatic initialization with any vehicle,
2. determining readiness status of OBD monitors,
3. determining malfunction indicator light status, and
4. retrieving diagnostic trouble codes.

Any scan tool which complies with Society of Automotive Engineers Recommended Practice J1978 is acceptable. Scan tools are available from a number of well known equipment manufacturers.

1. The vehicle’s OBD system connector has been removed or is otherwise not working properly. The OBD check cannot be completed if the connector is missing or is not working properly. 
2. The Malfunction Indicator Light does not illuminate when the ignition key is turned to the “on” position. When the vehicle’s OBD system detects a problem, it turns on the warning light to alert the driver of a problem. However, if the light cannot illuminate because the bulb has burned out or is otherwise not working, the driver would not be alerted to the problem. 
3. The Malfunction Indicator Light on the instrument panel is on (and/or commanded by the vehicle’s onboard computer) while the engine is running. This indicates that the OBD system has identified a problem that must be repaired. In this case, one or more diagnostic trouble codes will also be reported by the vehicle’s OBD system and these codes will help your technician diagnose and repair your vehicle. 

If you placed an order for a Vermont Strong plate that has not arrived yet, Thank you for your purchase, which will support victims of the 2023 Vermont flooding. We have had an overwhelming response and are working diligently to process all orders quickly and in the order they were received.

If you do not receive your order within two weeks, please feel free to contact us.

You may display your Vermont Strong plate, but it must be on the front of your vehicle.

Act 71, which became law on July 1, 2017, removed any end date from the law that authorizes certain motor vehicles registered in Vermont to display Vermont Strong plates that cover a regular front license plate. No other alternate plate is allowed.

Yes, visit dmv.vermont.gov/vermontstrong23