How to Get Your Vermont Learner's Permit (DMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Learner's Permit through the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Learner's Permit in Vermont, you must be at least 15 and apply in person at the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Vermont's DMV knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving — including mountain and winter driving — from the Vermont Driver's Manual. Teens complete driver education and a junior-operator graduated licensing program.
Documents to bring to the DMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity and date of birth: an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or a valid passport
- Social Security number, if you have one
- Two separate pieces of mail showing your name and physical Vermont address as proof of residency
- If you are 15, 16, or 17, a parent or legal guardian must sign your application to give consent (unless you are an emancipated minor)
- A completed learner's permit application
The knowledge test
In Vermont, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). A 20-question multiple-choice knowledge test taken online covering Vermont road rules, signs, and safe-driving practices; you must answer at least 16 correctly (80%) to pass.
Rehearse with our free Vermont practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Vermont Practice Test →Fees
The DMV charges $39 to apply and take the exam, plus $24 for the permit once you pass (about $63 total) for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
After the permit stage, new teens move to a Junior Driver's License with staged passenger limits: for the first three months they may carry no passengers except a licensed parent or guardian, a driver-ed instructor, or a licensed person at least 25 years old; during the second three months they may also carry immediate family members; after holding the junior license for six months the passenger restrictions end, though the vehicle may never carry more passengers than there are seat belts.
Vermont permit FAQ
How many questions is the Vermont permit test?
The DMV knowledge test has about 20 questions, and you need 16 of 20 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Vermont permit test online?
In Vermont, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). A 20-question multiple-choice knowledge test taken online covering Vermont road rules, signs, and safe-driving practices; you must answer at least 16 correctly (80%) to pass.
What do I need to bring to the DMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Vermont residency, plus anything required for a Learner's Permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Vermont permit?
You can apply for a Learner's Permit at 15 in Vermont, provided you meet the DMV's other requirements.
How much does a Vermont permit cost?
The DMV charges $39 to apply and take the exam, plus $24 for the permit once you pass (about $63 total) for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DMV.
What happens if I fail the Vermont permit test?
If you do not pass, you may study and take the test again. The exam fee applies each time you sit for the test, whether you pass or fail.
Official sources: dmv.vermont.gov · dmv.vermont.gov · dmv.vermont.gov