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Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

Required in order to drive certain commercial motor vehicles(CMVs)

Self-Designated Descriptors

The following are self-designated descriptors for a Vermont Driver’s License or Non-Driver Identification card.

    • Height
    • Weight
    • Eye color
    • Gender

    Applicants are not required under Vermont or federal law to present documentation that confirms the information they submit for these entries.

    Replacement Commercial License or Permit

    If your Commercial Driver's License or Permit has been lost, stolen, or destroyed you may apply for a replacement.  

    How to Obtain a Replacement CDL

    Commercial Driver's License holders must apply in person at a Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles Customer Service Office. You must complete the CDL Application (form #VL-031) and submit it together with the appropriate fee and identity documentation.

    See Identity Documentation Requirements »

    U.S. Citizenship

    Proof of U.S. Citizenship is required to obtain an Enhanced Driver's License or ID (EDL). Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL) are only available to U.S. Citizens or foreign nationals with a valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (I-551).

    At least one of the following must be presented.

    Can a driver holding a valid out-of-state license (either CDL or non-CDL) drive a Type II School Bus in the State of Vermont?

    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.

    Subscribe to Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

    FAQs.

    How can I get a new photo on my License, Permit or ID?

    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.

    What is REAL ID?

    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
    Will CDL drivers be required to surrender their unexpired license if they renew early?

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

    Can a driver holding a valid out-of-state license (either CDL or non-CDL) drive a Type II School Bus in the State of Vermont?

    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.

    Can a school bus endorsement be added to an out-of-state CDL?

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

    Can a driver holding an out-of-state CDL drive a school bus for a Vermont school?

    Yes, if their license has both an "S" (school bus) and "P" (passenger) endorsement. There are no additional requirements.