Vermont License Renewal at a Glance
How to Renew Your Driver's License in Vermont
You renew your license through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). VT licenses last 4 years for most drivers. Age 16 to 78 get 2-year cards. Age 78+ get 2-year cards. For a general overview of renewal rules across all states, see our driver's license renewal guide. Here are your options and steps.
Ways to Renew
- Online — the fastest way to renew. Visit the DMV renewal portal.
- In person — go to a DMV office. First-time REAL ID, vision tests, and new photos all need an in-person visit.
- By mail — follow the steps on your renewal notice.
Steps to Renew
- Check eligibility — Visit the VT DMV website. Check if you can renew online. VT is generous — up to 3 years after expiry.
- Gather documents — Have your license, SSN, and payment ready. For REAL ID, bring your birth certificate and proof of VT residency.
- Complete the renewal — Use the online portal, visit a DMV office, or mail in the form. Review your info and submit payment.
- Pass the vision test — In-person renewals require a vision test.
- Receive your license — Get a temp license at the office. Online or by mail? Your card arrives in 7 to 14 business days.
Vermont Driver's License Renewal Fees
| Standard renewal fee | $50 |
| Duplicate/replacement license | $20 |
| Motorcycle endorsement | $25 |
| Name change | $20 |
| Senior renewal (age 78+, 2-year) | $25 |
| Valid for | 4 years |
The fee is $50 for a 4-year license. Shorter-term cards are pro-rated.
What to Bring
Bring these docs when you renew:
- Current or expired Vermont driver's license
- Social Security number
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport for REAL ID)
- Proof of VT residency (for REAL ID)
- Renewal fee payment
Who Can Renew Online
You can renew online if you meet these rules:
- Your license is not expired more than 3 years
- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Your license is not suspended or revoked
- You do not need a new photo
- You do not need a vision retest
VT requires in-person renewal with a new photo at least every other cycle.
Go to DMV online renewal portalWhat Happens If Your Vermont License Expires
Vermont has no formal grace period. Driving on an expired license is a traffic violation.
- Before expiry — Up to 6 months before expiration
- After expiry — Up to 3 years after expiry without retaking tests
- Long-lapsed penalty — Over 3 years expired? Retake the written and driving tests. Driving expired can lead to a fine up to $200.
If you also need to update your vehicle registration, see our car registration renewal guide.
Important: You cannot drive with an expired license in Vermont. The window only affects how you renew. It does not let you drive past your expiry date.
Vision Test & Health Rules
- Vision test — Yes, at every in-person renewal. Vision test frequency increases for older drivers.
- In-person visits — VT requires in-person renewal with a new photo at least every other cycle.
- Wait time — In-person renewals issue a temp license right away. Your card arrives by mail in 7 to 14 business days.
Common Vermont License Renewal Mistakes
Watch out for these mistakes:
Not knowing license terms vary by age
VT uses different terms for different age groups. Age 78+ get 2-year cards. Plan for more frequent renewals.
Assuming the 3-year window means no consequences
VT lets you renew up to 3 years late without retesting. But driving expired is still a traffic violation with fines up to $200.
Not checking which DMV offices are open
Some VT DMV offices have limited hours. Check the schedule before visiting.
Forgetting about mail renewal when away
VT allows renewal by mail if you are temporarily out of state. Useful for college students and snowbirds.
REAL ID Info for Vermont
VT offers REAL ID at no extra cost. Visit a DMV office with your birth certificate or passport, SSN, and proof of VT address.
You need a REAL ID (gold star) to board U.S. flights. You also need one to enter federal buildings. This started May 7, 2025. Get one at your next in-person visit. See our full REAL ID deadline guide for costs and next steps.
Senior & Age Rules
Drivers 78 and older get 2-year licenses. They must pass a vision test at each renewal.
What Makes Vermont Different
VT gives you 3 years after expiry to renew without retesting. That is among the most generous windows in the U.S.
VT license terms vary by age. Age 78+ get 2-year cards.
VT allows mail renewal for those temporarily out of state.