• 5 min read

Pass Your VT Road Test First Try: The Ultimate DMV Checklist

The day of your Vermont road test is the final hurdle standing between you and the freedom of a driver's license. It's completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves. The single best way to convert that anxiety into confidence is with thorough preparation. This ultimate checklist is your expert guide to navigating every part of the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) road test.

From gathering the correct documents to ensuring your vehicle is in perfect shape and mastering the required maneuvers, we've got you covered. By understanding exactly what the examiner expects, you can avoid common pitfalls and demonstrate that you are a safe, competent, and well-prepared driver, ready for the scenic roads of the Green Mountain State.

✅ Phase 1: Scheduling and Document Preparation

Before you can even demonstrate your driving skills, your paperwork must be flawless. A DMV examiner will not proceed with the test if you are missing any required documents or do not have a proper appointment.

Scheduling Your Appointment:

  • Appointment is Mandatory: You must schedule your road test appointment in advance. You can book an appointment online through the official Vermont DMV website. Walk-ins are not accepted for road tests.
  • Plan Ahead: Appointment slots can fill up weeks, or even months, in advance, especially during warmer seasons. Schedule your test as soon as you meet the eligibility requirements and feel confident in your skills.
  • Arrive Early: Get to the DMV exam station at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. This allows for a calm and unhurried check-in process.

Essential Documents for Test Day:

Gather these original, valid documents beforehand. The VT DMV does not accept photocopies.

  • Your Valid Vermont Learner's Permit: You must present your physical, unexpired permit.
  • Completed Application Form (VL-021): Have the "Application for License/Permit" form filled out completely before you arrive. This saves time and shows you are prepared.
  • Proof of Identity and Vermont Residency: You must provide documents that prove who you are and that you live in Vermont. The DMV has a detailed list of acceptable documents, but a common combination is a certified birth certificate and two pieces of mail (like utility bills or bank statements) with your name and address.
  • Vehicle Registration and Insurance: You must have the current, valid registration card and proof of liability insurance for the vehicle you will be using for the test.
  • Accompanying Licensed Driver: You must be accompanied to the test by a licensed driver. This person must be unimpaired and hold a valid driver's license.
  • For Applicants Under 18:
    • Parent or Guardian Consent: A parent or legal guardian must sign your application form (VL-021).
    • 40-Hour Driving Log: You must present a driving log, signed by your parent or guardian, certifying that you have completed at least 40 hours of supervised practice driving, with at least 10 of those hours being at night.

✅ Phase 2: The Pre-Test Vehicle Inspection

You must provide a safe and road-legal vehicle for your test. The examiner will conduct a vehicle safety inspection before the driving portion begins. If your vehicle fails this inspection, your test will be postponed, and you will have to reschedule.

Your Test Vehicle Must Have:

  • A Valid Vermont Inspection Sticker: The vehicle must have passed its annual state safety inspection.
  • A Clean and Safe Interior: The passenger side must be clean and free of any clutter or debris that could interfere with the examiner.
  • All Functional Safety Equipment: The examiner will ask you to demonstrate that the following are in working order:
    • Brakes: Both the foot brake and the parking brake.
    • Lights: Headlights (high and low beams), brake lights, and turn signals.
    • Horn: Must be audible.
    • Windshield & Wipers: The windshield must be free of large cracks that obstruct your view. The wipers must function correctly.
    • Tires: Tires need to have adequate tread depth and be properly inflated.
    • Doors: Both the driver and passenger doors must open and close correctly from both the inside and the outside.
    • Mirrors: The rearview and side mirrors must be secure and provide a clear view.
    • Seatbelts: Both the driver and passenger seatbelts must be functional.
  • No Warning Lights: The dashboard must be free of any illuminated service or warning lights.

✅ Phase 3: Mastering the VT Driving Test Maneuvers

The Vermont road test is a comprehensive evaluation of your ability to safely control a vehicle and obey traffic laws.

Key Maneuvers You WILL Be Tested On:

  • Parallel Parking: This is a required element of the Vermont road test. You will be asked to park the vehicle in a designated space. Practice this maneuver repeatedly until you can do it smoothly and confidently.
  • Three-Point Turn (Turnabout): You will be required to turn your vehicle around in a limited space. The key is to do this with good observation and control, typically in three distinct movements.
  • Backing Up: You must back your vehicle in a straight line for a set distance without weaving.
  • Parking on a Hill: You must demonstrate you know how to correctly park your car on a hill to prevent it from rolling into traffic.
  • Intersection Navigation: Properly stopping at signs, yielding the right-of-way, and proceeding through various types of intersections safely.
  • Lane Changes: Demonstrating proper use of signals, mirrors, and blind-spot checks.

✅ Phase 4: Mental Prep and Avoiding Automatic Fails

Your attitude and mental preparedness are just as crucial as your technical skills.

  • Get a Good Night's Sleep: A rested mind is a focused mind.
  • Practice with a Calm Supervisor: Practice with an experienced, licensed driver who can provide constructive feedback without causing stress.
  • Critical Errors (Automatic Fails): Some mistakes are so serious they will result in an immediate failure of your test. These include:
    • Violating any traffic law (running a stop sign, red light, etc.).
    • Causing an accident or hitting any object (curb, cone).
    • Driving in a way that forces another driver or pedestrian to take evasive action.
    • Failing to follow the examiner's instructions.
    • Exceeding the speed limit.
    • An examiner having to intervene, either verbally or physically, for safety reasons.

By meticulously following this checklist, you are putting yourself in the driver's seat for success. Prepare your documents, ensure your vehicle is flawless, practice your maneuvers, and drive with the confidence that comes from being well-prepared. Good luck!