Getting your Vermont learner permit

By the end of this topic you can

• You can check whether you are eligible to apply for a Vermont permit.
• You can gather the four kinds of documents the DMV asks for.
• You can explain the permit fees and when you pay them.
• You can describe what lets you drive before the permit card arrives.

What you need to know and understand

• You must be at least 15 to take the permit test.
• Applicants aged 15, 16 or 17 need a parent or legal guardian to sign the application before the test, unless emancipated.
• Under-18 applicants need a clean driving record for the previous two years.
• The permit costs $24 and the knowledge test costs $39, a total of $63, according to the DMV fee list.
• You pay the test fee every time you take the test.
• Since May 1, 2025, passing the test does not issue a permit by itself. You must also apply and pay.
• Your receipt works as a temporary permit for 90 days and must be with you when you drive.

Who can apply

Vermont residents aged 15 or older can apply. A resident of another state can also get a Vermont permit if they are enrolled in a Vermont driver education course, with a letter from the school confirming it.

Foreign exchange students use a special parental authorization form (VL-036) signed by a parent or legal guardian. A host parent cannot sign it.

Documents to collect

The Vermont manual groups documents into four categories. All must be originals or copies certified by the agency that issued them. Photocopies and faxes are refused.

• Identity and date of birth: for example a certified birth certificate or a valid passport.
• Social Security information: your card, or a W-2, SSA-1099 or pay stub showing your number.
• Vermont residency: two pieces of mail with your name and street address. Minors use a Vermont Residency Certification plus a parent's residency document and proof of the relationship.
• Lawful status in the US: only needed if you want a REAL ID or Enhanced license.

Step by step

1. Read the Vermont Driver's Manual and try practice questions.
2. Have a parent or guardian sign the License/Permit Application (form VL-021) if you are under 18.
3. Take the online permit test through myDMV and pay the test fee.
4. Apply for the permit and pay the permit fee, providing your documents.
5. Carry your receipt while driving. It counts as a temporary permit for 90 days until the permit arrives.
6. Practice only with a qualifying supervisor beside you.

Vision and medical conditions

The DMV vision standard is 20/40. If a screening shows your vision falls short, you are referred to an eye doctor of your choice for further testing, and restrictions may be added. If you have a condition that could cause loss of consciousness, such as epilepsy, you must contact the DMV's Driver Improvement Section before booking, and your doctor will complete a medical form.

Common mistakes

• Assuming you can drive as soon as the test says pass. You must also apply and pay before you are permitted.
• Bringing photocopies of a birth certificate. Only originals or certified copies are accepted.
• Leaving the receipt at home. The temporary permit has to be with you while you drive.
• Driving in another state without checking its rules. Contact that state first to see if a Vermont permit is valid there.

Test yourself: Getting your Vermont learner permit

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Learning to Drive in Vermont
• Vermont Permit Practice Test
• Vermont Permit Test Online