How to Get Your Vermont Learner's Permit

Step by step

1. Gather your documents

   Originals or copies certified by the issuing agency; faxes and photocopies are refused. If you are a minor, your parent or guardian supplies the residency proof.

   • Proof of identity and date of birth, such as a valid passport or a certified birth record
   • Your Social Security card, or a W-2, SSA-1099 or pay stub showing your name and number
   • Proof of your Vermont street address, such as two pieces of mail sent there

   (Vermont Driver's Manual, p. 8–10)

2. Get a parent's signature

   If you are 15, 16 or 17, a parent or legal guardian signs your application before you test, unless you are emancipated. A host parent cannot sign for an exchange student. (Vermont Driver's Manual, p. 12)

3. Pass the online knowledge test

   The test is taken online at mydmv.vermont.gov: 20 questions, at least 16 right. If you fail, wait at least a day before trying again. (Vermont Driver's Manual, p. 2, 18)

4. Apply and pay for the permit

   Your permit is issued once you pass and pay the required fees; under 18, you also need a clean driving record for the previous two years. (Vermont Driver's Manual, p. 12)

Fees and the full list of accepted documents change from time to time, so check them on the Vermont Agency of Transportation, Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website before you go.

Rules while you have a learner's permit

• Drive only with a licensed, unimpaired parent or guardian, driver education instructor, or person aged 25 or older in the front seat. (Vermont Driver's Manual, p. 13)
• Check with another state's motor vehicle office before driving there on a Vermont permit. (Vermont Driver's Manual, p. 13)
• Log 40 hours of practice, at least 10 at night (half an hour after sunset to half an hour before sunrise), on top of driver education's 6 hours. (Vermont Driver's Manual, p. 20)
• Keep a clean record: a recall, suspension or revocation in the last six months delays your junior license. (Vermont Driver's Manual, p. 20)