Skip to main content
An Official Vermont Government Website

Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

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

CDL Medical Requirements

Physical Examinations

If you are subject to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, you must have a physical every two years.

To have a hazardous materials endorsement, you must meet the Federal Motor Carrier Safety regulations except for age requirements for intrastate travel.

Physical must be performed by a nationally certified examiner.

Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

Drivers have been required to have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to drive certain Commercial Motor Vehicles (CMVs) since April 1, 1992. The types of vehicles and operations requiring a CDL are outlined below. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has developed and issued standards for State testing and licensing of CDL holders. These standards require States to issue CDLs to specific CMV drivers only after the driver passes knowledge and skills tests administered by the State and related to the type of vehicle the driver expects to operate.

Renewals, Transfers & Upgrades

All CDL transactions must be processed in person.

About one month before your Commercial Driver License (CDL) expires you should receive a renewal notice in the mail if we have your most current mailing address. Answer all the questions on the notice, sign it, and bring it to the Customer Services Office closest to you for processing along with the renewal fee. 

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.