Vermont lets you renew your license by mail, online, or in person, depending on your situation and how much time you have
Vermont's Department of Motor Vehicles offers three ways to renew: mail-in renewal for standard renewals, online renewal through their website for those who meet certain requirements, and in-person renewal at any DMV office. Which route works for you depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you need a new photo, and how soon you need the renewed license in hand.
Your Vermont driver's license is valid for four years from your birthday. The DMV will send you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. That notice tells you which renewal method you can use. If you don't receive a notice, you can still renew—but you'll need to contact the DMV or visit their website to find out your options.
Key Takeaways
- Vermont sends renewal notices about 60 days before your license expires, and that notice tells you which renewal method is available to you.
- Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access, but you'll need a valid email address and a credit or debit card to pay the fee.
- Mail-in renewal takes about two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your process, so send it early if your license is close to expiring.
- In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if you need a new photo, if your license is already expired, or if you're not may be able to access for mail or online renewal.
- Vermont charges a renewal fee that varies depending on the type of license and whether you renew online, by mail, or in person.
Online renewal through the Vermont DMV website
Online renewal is the fastest method if you meet the requirements. You can renew online through the Vermont DMV's official website if your license is still valid, you have not had any violations or suspensions, and you do not need a new photo. The process takes about 10 minutes and you'll receive your renewed license by mail within one to two weeks.
To renew online, you'll need your current Vermont driver's license number, your date of birth, and a valid credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee. The DMV will send you a confirmation email after you complete the transaction. Keep that email—it serves as proof that you've renewed until your new license arrives. You can drive legally on your current license until the new one reaches you.
If you're not sure whether you're may be able to access for online renewal, the DMV website has a tool that checks your record before you start the process. This saves you time if you discover you need to renew in person instead.
Mail-in renewal by sending your process to the DMV
Mail-in renewal works if your license is still valid and you don't need a new photo. You'll use the renewal notice the DMV sent you—it includes the process form and instructions. If you didn't receive a notice, you can read the form from the Vermont DMV website or call the DMV to request one.
Fill out the form completely, include your renewal fee (the amount is listed on the form and varies by license type), and mail it to the address shown on the form. Do not send cash—use a check or money order. The DMV typically processes mail renewals within two to three weeks of receiving them, though processing time can be longer during busy periods.
Mail your renewal at least three weeks before your license expires to avoid a gap. If your license expires before the DMV processes your renewal, you'll need to renew in person instead. Keep a copy of what you mail for your records.
In-person renewal at a Vermont DMV office
You must renew in person if your license has already expired, if you need a new photo, or if you're not may be able to access for mail or online renewal. You'll also renew in person if you want to update your address, change your name, or add or remove endorsements (such as a motorcycle endorsement).
Visit any Vermont DMV office with your current license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). Bring your renewal notice if you have it. Processing usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you'll receive your renewed license on the spot or by mail within one to two weeks, depending on whether you pay for a photo ID card or a standard renewal.
DMV offices are located in Montpelier, Rutland, Saint Johnsbury, and White River Junction. You can also visit the DMV office in your county. Hours vary by location, so check the Vermont DMV website for the office nearest you and its hours before you go.
What happens if your license has already expired
If your license expired more than a few months ago, you cannot use mail-in or online renewal. You must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address.
An expired license is still valid for identification purposes at a DMV office, so you can use it as part of your proof package. However, you cannot legally drive on an expired license. If you've been driving on an expired license, renew as soon as you can to avoid a traffic stop and potential fines.
Renewal fees and payment methods
Vermont's renewal fee depends on the type of license you hold and how you renew. Standard four-year renewals cost less than commercial driver's license (CDL) renewals. The exact fee is listed on your renewal notice and on the DMV website.
For online renewal, you pay by credit or debit card at the time you submit your process. For mail-in renewal, send a check or money order with your process—do not send cash. For in-person renewal, you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card, depending on the office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Vermont license if I've moved out of state?
Yes. If you no longer live in Vermont but still hold a Vermont license, you can renew by mail or online if you're may be able to access. If you've moved and want to update your address to your new state, you'll need to renew in person or contact the DMV to discuss your options, as some changes require a visit to an office.
What if I lost my renewal notice?
You can still renew without it. read the renewal form from the Vermont DMV website, or call the DMV at the number listed on their website and request a form by mail. You'll need your license number and date of birth to get your free guide.
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore?
Online renewal takes one to two weeks by mail. Mail-in renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives it. In-person renewal gives you your license on the spot if you pay for a photo ID, or by mail within one to two weeks for a standard renewal.
Can I drive while my renewal is being processed?
Yes, you can drive on your current license until it expires, even if you've already submitted a renewal process. Once your new license arrives, your old one is no longer valid for driving.
What if my name has changed since my last license?
You must renew in person and bring legal proof of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will issue a new license with your updated name.