What license type should you get in Vermont?

Do you want to fully understand the classifications?

What are the requirements for a regular driver’s license?

We’re going to answer all of these questions here. 

In our Vermont driver’s license classification guide, we’ll look at the license classes and what it can operate, the requirements for each type, and even include an FAQ section. 

This way, you won’t be confused about it anymore. 

So let’s get started!

Driver’s License Classes in Vermont

• Class A Commercial

With a Class A commercial license, you can operate any combination of vehicles with a GCWR of more than 26,000 pounds, provided the GVWR of the vehicle being pulled is 10,001 pounds or more. A driver who holds a valid Class A license can also drive vehicles under all other classifications.  

• Class B Commercial

With a Class B commercial license, you can drive any single or combination of vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more, pulling a vehicle with a GVWR of no more than 10,000 pounds. An operator who holds a Class B license can also drive a Class C or D vehicle.

• Class C Commercial

With a Class C commercial license, you can operate any single or combination of vehicles that do not fall under either class A or B, can transport 16 or more passengers, or carry hazardous materials (should have a placard).

• Class D

Class D is also known as a regular or operator’s license. With a Class D license, you can drive common cars and other private vehicles.

Getting Your Class D Driver’s License in Vermont

Getting a Vermont Class D driver’s license requires three main steps:

• Getting a learner’s permit
• Driving practice
• Taking the road test

To apply for a learner’s permit, you will need to visit the DMV, submit your application form along with the required documents (listed below), and pass the knowledge exam. 

• Two proofs of residency in Vermont
• Birth certificate or valid passport
• Proof of social security number

Click here to book an appointment at the DMV via the online scheduler. 

The exam fee is $32, and the permit fee is $20. 

Upon passing the knowledge exam, you will receive your learner’s permit. If you are aged 18 or over, you may be able to schedule a road test on the same day. After completing the road test successfully, you will need to pay the $19 road test fee before receiving your regular license. 

Junior Driver’s License

If you are aged 16 to 17 years old, you will receive your junior driver’s license upon satisfying the following qualifications:

• You have held your Vermont learner’s permit for at least one year. 
• You have completed a driver education course from an approved provider. 
• You have logged at least 40 hours of supervised driving practice, 10 of which must be done during night time. You must be with someone who is at least 21 years old and has a valid state license when driving.
• You must secure permission from your parent or guardian before you take the test. 
• When you’re ready, schedule an appointment for your exam. You may also call the DMV at 802-828-2000 or 802-828-2085. 
• On the day of your road test, make sure you bring a vehicle that is insured, registered, and is in good condition. You will need to bring your auto insurance card and registration certificate. An adult who is at least 21 years old and possesses a valid license must also be with you on the test day. 

A junior driver’s license is also called a provisional license, and with it, you may drive unsupervised subject to restrictions (click here to find out the restrictions). When you reach 18, you will be eligible to receive a full unrestricted Class D driver’s license. 

Getting Your Commercial Driver’s License in Vermont

To be eligible for a CDL in Vermont, you must already hold a valid Class D license and meet the following age requirements:

• You have to be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial vehicle within Vermont. 
• You have to be at least 21 to drive a commercial vehicle interstate. 

Before obtaining a CDL, you first need to secure a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). 

To do that, click here to schedule an appointment online. 

Go to the DMV on your scheduled date and submit the following requirements:

• Accomplished application form (you can get it from the DMV office)
• CDL Medical Certification form*
• Proof of identity and birth (accepted documents are listed in the form)
• Proof of citizenship or lawful presence in the US
• Social security number
• Two proofs of address

*You must meet the CDL medical requirements set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. 

Upon submission of the required documents, you will have to pass the knowledge test applicable for the license class you are applying for, whether A, B, or C. 

After passing the exam, you will receive your Commercial Learner’s Permit. You have to hold it for at least 14 days before taking a CDL skills test, which you can also schedule online. 

On the day of your skills test, you need to bring your Class D license, your birth certificate, as well as proof of residency, legal presence, and your social security number.

The knowledge and road tests each cost $32. The CLP costs $15. A two-year CDL costs $60, and a four-year CDL will set you back by $90. 

Vermont Driver’s License Classification FAQs

Can I take an online driver’s ed course in Vermont?

Unfortunately, Vermont has not yet authorized online driver’s education. You will have to take this course in a traditional driving school. 

Does Vermont issue a separate motorcycle license to drivers?

Vermont does not have a separate class M license. However, you can apply for a motorcycle endorsement on top of your valid state license. 

If you do not currently possess an endorsement, you need to secure a motorcycle learner’s permit by completing a four-hour Vermont Motorcycle Awareness Program or passing a permit exam.  

Can I apply for a Vermont junior driver’s license if I have a provisional license from another state?

Yes, you may convert it to a VT junior driver’s license by passing the required exams, providing proof of completion of a driver’s ed course, and completing the required 40-hour driving practice.  

Conclusion

As a recap, the state of Vermont has four driver’s license classes, namely Classes A, B, C, and D. 

Classes A, B, and C are commercial driver’s licenses, which allow operators to drive large vehicles used for commercial purposes. 

A Class A license means you can drive all other vehicles belonging to other classes. 

Finally, a Class D license is also referred to as the regular license. This is what you use to, say, drive your car to work. 

We hope that this guide has been a great help!