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Vermont · Permit test

Getting a Vermont CDL, starting with the commercial learner's permit

You need a Vermont driver's license first. Then you pass the knowledge tests for your class to get a commercial learner's permit (CLP), hold it for at least 14 days, and take the skills test. You can get a CLP and a Vermont CDL for driving inside Vermont at 18, and you must be 21 to drive across state lines. First-time applicants also need entry-level driver training from an FMCSA-approved provider.

Vermont DMV: CDL Manual (PDF)

Updated October 2026 · Written from official sources, listed at the bottom of this page

Vermont CDL classes

ClassWhat it covers
ACombinations of 26,001 pounds or more, towing a unit over 10,000 pounds
BSingle vehicles of 26,001 pounds or more, towing 10,000 pounds or less
CSmaller vehicles carrying placarded hazardous materials or 16 or more people, including the driver

How do you pass the Vermont CDL permit test?

  1. Study the Vermont Commercial Driver's License Manual, form VN-111, dated August 2025. The DMV's pages don't publish the number of questions or the pass mark.
  2. Schedule the written exam through myDMV. Each knowledge test is $39, and the CDL permit test is in English only.
  3. Pass the tests for your class, plus endorsement tests at $17 each. A HazMat endorsement also needs a TSA background check and fingerprints.
  4. For CDL test prep, the DMV points Vermont residents to Peterson's Test and Career Prep through the Vermont Online Library at vtonlinelib.org.
Vermont DMV: CDL Manual (PDF) ↗

Driving on a CLP

  • A CDL holder with the right class and endorsements must sit beside you, or right behind you on a bus built for more than 15 passengers.
  • Carry your Vermont Class D license with the CLP.
  • No hazardous materials. With a passenger endorsement you can't carry passengers, and with a tank endorsement the tank must be empty.
  • The CLP can't be renewed. For another one, you retake the knowledge tests.

The DMV's pages differ on how long the CLP lasts. The CLP page and the fee page say one year, while the main CDL page says 180 days. Ask the CDL unit at 802-828-0598 so you can plan your skills test in time.

The skills test and fees

The skills test has three parts: a pre-trip inspection, basic control skills and a road test, in a vehicle that matches your class. Before you can book it, send the $29 scheduling deposit to the CDL Unit, Department of Motor Vehicles, 120 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05603-0001. The skills test itself is $39.

CDL feeAmount
Commercial learner's permit$18
Knowledge test$39
Endorsement test$17
Skills test scheduling deposit$29
Skills test$39
CDL, 2 years$72
CDL, 4 years$108
CDL skills testing sites →
Sources: Vermont DMV and 5 more. Checked October 2026.

Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.

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