The Essential Vermont DMV Document Checklist: What to Bring for Your Appointment

One of the most common reasons for a frustrating, wasted trip to a Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office is arriving without the proper documentation. When applying for a driver's license or learner's permit, the document requirements are very specific and must be followed perfectly.

Vermont offers a few different types of licenses, including a REAL ID-compliant license (for federal purposes like air travel) and a non-compliant Driver's License (DLA). While the specific documents can vary slightly, this checklist will ensure you arrive at your DMV appointment with everything you need for a quick and successful visit.

The Document Requirements

To be issued a license or permit, you must present original or certified documents. Photocopies and laminated documents (like Social Security cards) are not accepted. You will need to bring documents that prove the following four things.

1. Proof of Identity (Provide ONE Document)

You must provide one primary document that proves your full legal name and date of birth.

Acceptable Primary Documents Include:

• U.S. Birth Certificate: An original or certified copy from the vital records office in your birth state. Hospital-issued certificates are not acceptable.
• Valid, unexpired U.S. Passport or Passport Card.
• Certificate of Naturalization.
• Certificate of Citizenship.
• Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card.
• Unexpired Foreign Passport with a valid, unexpired U.S. visa and I-94 record.

What if my name has changed? This is a very common issue. If your current legal name is different from the name on your identity document (due to marriage, divorce, or a court order), you must show an original or certified legal document that links the names. For example, if you are now married, you would need to bring your birth certificate AND your official government-issued marriage certificate. You must show the complete "paper trail" of every name change.

2. Proof of Social Security Number (Provide ONE Document)

You must provide a document that shows your full, nine-digit Social Security number (SSN).

Acceptable Documents Include:

• Social Security Card: The original, unlaminated card is the best option.
• W-2 Form.
• 1099 Form.
• Pay stub that includes your full name and full SSN.

3. Proof of Vermont Residency (Provide TWO Documents)

You must provide two different documents from two different sources that prove you live at a physical address in Vermont. P.O. boxes are not an acceptable address. Both documents must show your name and your current VT residence address.

Commonly Used Residency Documents Include:

• Utility bill or hook-up order (dated within the last 60 days).
• Financial documents like a bank statement, credit card bill, or mortgage statement.
• Pay stub.
• Vermont vehicle registration or title.
• Valid homeowner's, renter's, or auto insurance policy.
• Rental or lease agreement.
• Tax documents (W-2, property tax bill).
• Official mail from a school or government agency.

For Minors: If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian who signs the application must also provide their two proofs of residency.

Final Checklist Before You Go to the DMV

• [ ] DMV Appointment: It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online.
• [ ] Completed Application: Fill out the Learner Permit/Driver License application form (VL-021) in advance.
• [ ] ONE proof of Identity (with name change documents if needed).
• [ ] ONE proof of Social Security Number.
• [ ] TWO proofs of Vermont Residency from different sources.
• [ ] For a teen permit, a Parent or Legal Guardian must be present to sign the application.
• [ ] Payment for the required fees (check, money order, or credit/debit card).

A few minutes of preparation gathering these documents will save you the major headache of a second trip to the DMV office.