Vermont · DMV

How to get your CDL permit in Vermont

In Vermont you need a Class D license and a DMV appointment to take your CDL knowledge tests. The permit costs $18, lasts 1 year, and can't be renewed.

Last checked September 26, 2026 against official DMV sources

Start the free Vermont permit classroom Official Vermont CDL manual

Minimum age: 18 (in Vermont only) · 21 to cross state lines
Permit fee: $18
Permit valid for: 1 year, not renewable
Wait before road test: 14 days
Knowledge test language: Not published
Passing score: 80%

Step by step

1Hold a valid Vermont Class D license and be at least 18.
2Study the Vermont CDL Manual (VN-111).
3Complete the commercial application (VL-031) and the medical certification form (VL-033).
4Book an appointment at mydmv.vermont.gov. You can't test without one.
5Bring your documents, pay your fees, and pass the knowledge tests for your class and endorsements.
6Practice for at least 14 days with a qualified CDL holder in the proper seat.
7Before your skills test, finish Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) with a provider listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry.
8Schedule your road test and pass it before your permit expires.

What to bring

Your valid Vermont Class D license
Proof of identity and lawful status, such as a passport, birth certificate, or Permanent Resident Card
Proof of Social Security number (card, W-2, 1099 or pay stub)
Two documents showing your name and Vermont address
Completed forms VL-031 (application) and VL-033 (medical certification)

Medical card

You self-certify your commerce type on the application and on form VL-033. Updated medical certificates can be sent to DMV online, and examiners also send results electronically through FMCSA.

Fees

Commercial learner's permitValid 1 year.	$18
CDL knowledge test	$39
Endorsement test	$17 each
CDL road testPlus a $29 scheduling deposit.	$39
CDL (2 years / 4 years)Enhanced CDL is $108 / $144.	$72 / $108

Fees change. Confirm the current amount with DMV before you go.

The tests you'll take

General Knowledge (everyone)
Air Brakes (if your truck has air brakes)
Combination Vehicles (Class A)
Endorsements as needed

Testing in Vermont

You must book an appointment in advance. Walk-ins can't be tested.
DMV gives a vision test. Needing glasses or contacts adds a restriction to your license.
If you fail the skills test 3 times, you must wait 6 months to try again.

Study for these tests in the Vermont classroom

Good to know in Vermont

Your permit can't be renewed. If it runs out, you must retake the knowledge tests for a new one.
The application asks you to confirm you're in good standing on child support, state taxes and court judgments.
Vermont offers an Enhanced CDL for a higher fee.
A School Bus endorsement needs a clinic and an exam every 4 years.
Before paying a CDL school, check that it is still listed on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry. Thousands of providers were removed in 2025–2026.

Confirm with DMV before you go

We couldn't confirm these from official sources, so we left them out rather than guess:

Which languages the knowledge tests are offered in — confirm with DMV.
Vermont's current policy on non-domiciled permits and CDLs.
How long you must wait after a failed knowledge test, and what a retest costs.
The exact vision standard.

Federal rules that apply in every state(show)

Age: You can get a CLP at 18, but until you turn 21 you can only drive a commercial vehicle inside your own state. Hauling hazmat requires you to be 21.
Knowledge tests: Everyone takes General Knowledge. Class A adds Combination Vehicles, and anyone driving a truck with air brakes takes Air Brakes. You need at least 80% on each test.
14-day wait: You must hold your CLP for at least 14 days before you can take the skills (road) test. Some states make you wait longer.
Driving on a CLP: A CDL holder with the right class and endorsements must sit in the front seat whenever you drive. Hazmat is never allowed on a CLP. With a passenger or school bus permit you can't carry passengers, and with a tank permit the tank must be empty.
Entry-Level Driver Training: You must finish ELDT with a provider on FMCSA's Training Provider Registry before your Class A or B skills test. You do not need it to get the permit itself.
Medical card: You self-certify the kind of driving you will do. Most new drivers are 'non-excepted interstate' and need a DOT physical from a certified medical examiner, who now sends the results to your state electronically.
Clearinghouse check: Before issuing a CLP, your state checks FMCSA's Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse. A 'prohibited' status blocks the permit until return-to-duty is complete.

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Official sources

This page is a study aid, not legal advice, and we are not affiliated with Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles. Rules and fees change, so always check with DMV before you apply.