Vermont’s Teen Driver’s License and Insurance Requirements

Vermont employs a graduated license system for teens who want to get a driver's license. Below, we explain how this process works, including the requirements and restrictions.

How Do I Get a Learner's Permit to Start Driving in Vermont?

Requirements for getting a learner's permit. To get a learner's permit, you need to be at least 15 years old, pass written and vision tests, and pay a $24 fee. You also must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who will need to sign a consent form. The application must include proof of identification and proof of residency. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 617 (2024).)

Learner's permit supervision requirement. A learner's permit is valid for two years and authorizes the holder to drive only while a "supervising adult" is in the front seat. A supervising adult is defined as an unimpaired parent or guardian, driving instructor, driving examiner, or licensed adult who's at least 25 years old. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 615 (2024).)

Who Qualifies for Vermont's Junior Operator's License?

Prerequisites for a junior operator's license. To apply for a junior operator's license, you need to be 16 years old and have had a permit for at least a year. You can't apply for a junior permit if you've had any suspensions or revocations within the past six months. You also need to complete a state-approved driver's education course. Your guardian or parents needs to consent to you getting the license and certify that you've completed 40 hours of supervised driving time, including 10 nighttime hours. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 607 (2024).)

Behind-the-wheel test for junior operator's license. The final step for getting a junior operator's permit is to pass the behind-the wheel test.

Junior operator restrictions. For the first three months of licensure, the holder can drive only alone or with a supervising adult. For the following three months, the teen can also transport family members. After six months, the passenger restrictions are lifted, but the number of passengers must still not exceed the number of seatbelts in the vehicle. Junior operator's licensees are prohibited from driving in the course of employment.

What Happens if I Violate the Conditions of a Vermont Learner's Permit or Junior License?

Passenger violations. A passenger restriction violation of the junior operator's license will result in a $50 fine and a 90-day license recall.

Supervision violations. Driving without the required supervising adult carries a $50 fine and a 90-day permit recall.

Speeding tickets. Obtaining a three-point speeding ticket or accumulating six total traffic violation points will result in a 90-day license recall.

Distracted driving. Using a cell phone while driving will result in a 30-day license recall. The driver will also be fined $100 to $200 for a first offense and $250 to $500 for a subsequent offense within two years.

Serious accidents and violations. The DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) can recall a driver's license for any serious accidents or convictions. Additionally, the DMV can require a teen to retake the driving exams.

When Can I Get a Full Vermont Driver's License?

Junior license holders who are at least 18 years old and haven't had any suspension or revocation in the last six months are eligible for an unrestricted driver's license. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 606 (2024).)

What Are Vermont's Insurance Requirements for Drivers?

Minimum insurance requirements. Before any driver can operate a vehicle in Vermont, the vehicle must be properly insured. In Vermont, the mandatory liability coverage must include at least $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury per accident, and $10,000 property damage per accident. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 800 (2024).)

Penalties for driving without insurance. Failure to provide proof of valid insurance will result in a civil penalty of up to $500. Additionally, drivers who can't provide proof of insurance within 20 days face license suspension. (Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 23, § 802 (2024).)