Vermont CDL Requirements

Vermont CDL Requirements: Complete Guide for 2024

Getting your Commercial Driver's License (CDL) in Vermont requires meeting specific state and federal requirements. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Vermont CDL requirements, including fees, testing procedures, medical certification, and training requirements.

Vermont CDL Age Requirements

Vermont follows federal age minimums for CDL licensing:

Intrastate CDL (Within Vermont Only)

• Class A, B, and C CDL: Minimum age 18 years old
• Must meet all standard licensing and medical requirements
• Limited to operating commercial vehicles within Vermont state lines

Interstate CDL or HazMat Endorsement

• Class A, B, and C CDL: Minimum age 21 years old
• Required for interstate commerce under federal FMCSA regulations
• Mandatory for hazardous materials endorsement regardless of operation area

Vermont CDL Fees

Vermont CDL fees are established by state statute and updated periodically. Current fees include:

• CDL Application Fee: $0
• CDL License Fee: $64 (4-year license)
• CDL Knowledge Test Fee: Varies by test/endorsement
• CDL Skills Test Fee: Check current DMV fee schedule
• CDL Renewal Fee: Check current rates
• Endorsement Fees: Additional fees for HazMat, passenger, school bus endorsements

Important: Fees are subject to change. Always verify current fees on the official Vermont DMV website before applying.

Knowledge and Skills Testing Requirements

Step 1: Obtain Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP)

Before taking the CDL skills test, you must:

• Study the Vermont Commercial Driver's Manual thoroughly
• Pass required knowledge tests at a Vermont DMV office
• Take the General Knowledge test (required for all CDL classes)
• Pass the Combination Vehicles test (Class A CDL only)
• Complete Air Brakes test (if operating air brake vehicles)
• Pass endorsement-specific tests as needed

Step 2: CLP Holding Period

Federal regulations require you to hold your CLP for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test. This waiting period cannot be waived.

Step 3: CDL Skills Testing

The CDL skills test consists of three parts:

• Pre-Trip Inspection: Demonstrate knowledge of vehicle safety inspection procedures
• Basic Control Skills: Show proficiency in backing, parking, and maneuvering
• Road Test: Drive safely on public roads under examiner supervision

Vehicle Requirements: You must test in a representative vehicle of the class you're seeking. The vehicle must have all equipment (such as air brakes) that you want authorized on your CDL, or restrictions will be placed on your license.

Medical Certification Requirements

Vermont follows federal FMCSA medical certification standards:

DOT Physical Examination

• Must pass a DOT physical conducted by a certified medical examiner
• Obtain Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5876)
• Medical certificate must be on file with Vermont DMV
• Certificate validity period determined by examining physician (typically 2 years)

Medical Certificate Maintenance

• Keep medical certification current through periodic renewals
• Submit updated certificates to DMV before expiration
• Failure to maintain valid medical certification results in CDL downgrade

Medical Waivers

If you cannot meet standard medical requirements, you may be eligible for:

• Federal medical waivers for specific conditions
• State medical waivers (where applicable)
• Restricted CDL operation for certain vehicle types

Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) Requirements

Vermont fully implements the federal ELDT rule effective February 7, 2022:

Who Needs ELDT

ELDT is required before taking CDL skills tests if you are:

• Obtaining your first Class A or Class B CDL
• Upgrading from Class B to Class A
• Adding school bus, passenger, or hazardous materials endorsements

ELDT Training Requirements

• Training must be completed with a provider listed on the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR)
• Complete required theory (classroom/online) instruction
• Finish behind-the-wheel range and road training
• Training provider must submit completion certificate electronically to FMCSA
• ELDT completion required before DMV will schedule skills test

Training Components

ELDT programs include:

• Theory Training: Classroom or online instruction covering regulations, safety, and vehicle operation
• Range Training: Behind-the-wheel practice in controlled environment
• Road Training: On-road driving instruction with qualified instructor
• Competency-Based Assessment: Students must demonstrate proficiency in all areas

CDL Testing Locations in Vermont

Vermont CDL testing is administered through Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles offices. For current testing locations and appointments:

Contact Information

• Commercial Driver Licensing Unit
• 120 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05603
• Phone: 802-828-0598

Finding Test Locations

To locate CDL testing sites:

• Visit the Vermont DMV CDL webpage
• Check the "Offices/Locations" section for CDL services
• Review "Road Test Locations/Appointments" information
• Call the Commercial Driver Licensing unit directly

Vermont DMV provides information on both knowledge test locations and CDL skills test sites, including any approved third-party testing facilities.

Application Process

Required Documentation

When applying for your Vermont CDL, bring:

• Valid Vermont driver's license or acceptable identification
• Social Security card or acceptable substitute
• Proof of Vermont residency
• Medical Examiner's Certificate (DOT physical)
• ELDT completion certificate (if applicable)
• Required fees

Application Steps

1. Study the Vermont Commercial Driver's Manual
2. Complete required ELDT training (if applicable)
3. Pass DOT physical examination
4. Take and pass CDL knowledge tests to obtain CLP
5. Hold CLP for minimum 14 days
6. Schedule and pass CDL skills test
7. Receive your Vermont CDL

Additional Resources

For the most current information on Vermont CDL requirements:

• Visit the official Vermont DMV CDL page
• Download the current Vermont Commercial Driver's Manual
• Contact the Commercial Driver Licensing unit with specific questions
• Verify all fees and requirements before applying

Important: CDL requirements and fees can change. Always confirm current information with Vermont DMV before beginning the application process or paying any fees.