Renewing Your Vermont Driver's License in 2025: A Complete Guide

Every driver in Vermont must periodically renew their license to legally stay on the road. The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has made this process more convenient than ever, offering an efficient online renewal system for many drivers, as well as traditional in-person and mail-in options.

This guide covers everything you need to know about renewing your Vermont driver's license in 2025, from renewal timelines and REAL ID requirements to fees and what to do if your license is already expired.

When to Renew Your VT License

A standard Vermont driver's license is valid for either two or four years, expiring on your birthday. The DMV gives you a generous window to renew: you can apply for renewal up to six months before your license's expiration date. While the state will send a courtesy renewal notice in the mail, it is your responsibility as a driver to know your expiration date and renew on time.

What if My License Has Already Expired?

Driving with an expired license is illegal. If your license has expired, you can still renew it. However, if your license has been expired for more than three years, you will be required to re-apply as a new driver, which includes retaking and passing both the written knowledge test and the road test.

Option 1: Renewing Your License Online

For most Vermonters, renewing online through the myDMV portal is the quickest and easiest method. It saves you from having to make an appointment and visit a DMV office.

Are You Eligible for Online Renewal?

You can generally renew your Class D driver's license online if:

• Your license is not a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
• Your license is not suspended, revoked, or canceled.
• You do not need to change your name or other critical information that requires documentation.
• You are not required to provide a medical or vision certificate.

How to Renew Online:

1. Visit the myDMV Public Portal: Navigate to the official Vermont DMV website and find the link for online services or "myDMV."
2. Log In or Create an Account: You will need to log into your account or create one if you don't have one.
3. Select "Renew License": Follow the prompts to renew your driver's license.
4. Confirm Your Details: The system will display the information the DMV has on file for you. You must confirm that all details, including your mailing and residential addresses, are correct.
5. Pay the Fee: Use a valid credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.
6. Print Your Temporary License: Once your payment is processed, you will be able to download and print a temporary license that is valid for 60 days. Your new, permanent license card will be mailed to your address on file.

Option 2: Renewing In Person

If you are not eligible for online renewal—for example, if you need to get your first REAL ID, change your name, or are required to take a vision test—you must visit a DMV office in person. It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online to reduce your wait time.

The Vision Test Requirement

A key part of the in-person renewal process is the vision test. You may be required to pass a vision screening when you renew in person, especially if you have a vision restriction on your license or if you are an older driver. If you wear glasses or contact lenses to drive, be sure to bring them.

What to Bring for an In-Person Renewal:

• Your current Vermont Driver's License.
• Your renewal notice (if you received one).
• REAL ID Documents (if applicable): If you are applying for your first REAL ID, you must bring the full set of original documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and two proofs of residency.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the renewal fee. As of early 2024, the fee for a four-year renewal is $51.00. A two-year renewal is $32.00. Fees are subject to change.

The In-Person Process:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Use the DMV website to schedule a renewal appointment.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the renewal application form.
3. Pass the Vision Test: If required, you must pass the vision screening.
4. Get a New Photo: A new photograph will be taken for your updated license.
5. Pay the Fee: Pay the renewal fee.
6. Receive Your Temporary Card: You will be given a temporary paper license to use for driving until your permanent card arrives in the mail.

Option 3: Renewing by Mail

If you receive a renewal notice in the mail and are not required to appear in person, you can renew by mail.

• Complete the Form: Fill out the renewal form you received in the mail.
• Enclose Payment: Include a check or money order for the correct fee.
• Mail It: Send the form and payment to the address provided. Your new license will be mailed to you.

By choosing the right renewal method for your situation and arriving prepared, you can ensure your license stays current with minimal hassle.