Updated for 2026

Vermont Vermont DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles)

Comprehensive study guide for the 2026 driver's knowledge exam. Everything you need to know about laws, fees, and requirements.

Total Questions

Passing Score

Standard Fee

$20.00 (Learner Permit) / $32.00 (2-Year License) or $51.00 (4-Year License)

Testing System

computerized touchscreen (multiple choice)

Critical Failure Factors

The most common reason for failure in Vermont is the 'Immediate Failure' criteria during the road test. This includes ignoring a 'Stop' sign (rolling stop), violating the right-of-way (especially at roundabouts or four-way stops), or driving at speeds unsafe for conditions (even if below the limit). On the written test, many fail due to confusion over Vermont's unique passing laws (double yellow lines) and the specific restrictions placed on Junior Driver's Licenses.

Legal Statutes & Driving Codes

Vermont traffic laws operate under Title 23 of the Vermont Statutes, and they contain several provisions that are distinctly different from the rest of the United States. The most shocking difference for out-of-state drivers is the 'Double Yellow Line' rule. In Vermont, unlike almost anywhere else, it is LEGAL to cross a double solid yellow line to pass another vehicle, provided the road is clear, visibility is sufficient, and no sign explicitly states 'DO NOT PASS'. The double yellow line in Vermont indicates a hazard, not an absolute prohibition, though passing is still prohibited on hills, curves, or intersections. Another critical legal framework is the 'Graduated Driver License' (GDL) system for drivers under 18, known as the 'Junior Driver’s License'. Holders of this license cannot carry ANY passengers for the first 3 months unless accompanied by a licensed parent or driving instructor. After 3 months, they may carry family members only. This restriction lasts for 6 months total. Additionally, Vermont has a strict 'Vulnerable Users Law'. Drivers legally must pass 'vulnerable users' (cyclists, pedestrians, horseback riders, or agricultural tractors) with at least 4 feet of clearance and must reduce speed. If 4 feet is not possible, you must wait. Regarding environmental laws, Vermont enforces a strict 'Anti-Idling Law' (Title 23, Section 1110); it is illegal to idle a motor vehicle for more than 5 minutes in any 60-minute period. This is heavily enforced in school zones to protect air quality. The state also has a rigorous 'Move Over Law', requiring drivers to move to a non-adjacent lane or slow down significantly not just for police, but for ANY stationary vehicle displaying flashing lights (including tow trucks and utility vehicles). Alcohol laws differ for youth: while the standard limit is 0.08% BAC, Vermont enforces a 0.02% BAC limit for any driver under age 21, effectively a zero-tolerance policy where a single drink leads to suspension. Furthermore, the use of portable electronic devices is completely banned for drivers under 18 (even hands-free), while adults are restricted to hands-free mode only. Fines for texting while driving are substantial and carry points.

Statistical Realities

Driving in Vermont requires mastering environmental challenges unique to northern New England. The most notorious is 'Mud Season', which occurs in early spring when snowmelt and rain turn unpaved roads (which make up nearly 50% of Vermont's road network) into deep, impassable slurry. GPS systems often fail here, directing drivers onto Class 4 roads that are legally roads but practically impassable trails; the handbook advises trusting local signage over GPS. Another major hazard is 'Frost Heaves'. These are bumps in the asphalt caused by the freezing and thawing of groundwater, capable of damaging suspension or causing loss of control. Signs specifically warn of them, and drivers must slow down immediately. Winter driving involves dealing with 'Black Ice', particularly on bridges and in shaded valleys. While winter tires are not legally mandatory for passenger cars, they are culturally essential, and studded tires are permitted from October 15 to May 1. Vermont is also home to large wildlife, specifically Moose. Unlike deer, moose are tall, dark, and their eyes do not reflect headlights effectively. A collision with a moose often results in the animal crushing the windshield and roof of the car, leading to high fatality rates. Drivers are taught to scan the *roadside* specifically for dark shapes at night. Another unique infrastructure feature is the 'Smugglers' Notch' pass (Route 108). This historic road is extremely narrow and winding with massive boulders; it is physically impossible for tractor-trailers to pass, yet trucks get stuck annually, resulting in fines exceeding $2,000. For vehicle owners, Vermont requires a strict 'Annual Safety Inspection'. Every vehicle must display a valid, color-coded inspection sticker on the windshield. The inspection checks everything from brake pad thickness to OBDII emissions; driving without a valid sticker is a primary offense for being pulled over. Roundabouts are increasingly common in Vermont to replace traffic lights; drivers must remember the 'Yield to the Left' rule and always signal their exit. Finally, Vermont offers a 'Driver Privilege Card' (DPC). This is a license available to Vermont residents regardless of immigration status. While it grants driving privileges, the card is marked specifically to indicate it is not valid for federal identification purposes (like boarding planes), distinguishing it from the Real ID compliant licenses.