📖 Vermont DMV Study Guide

Everything important from the Vermont Driver's Manual (2025) — organized for the exam

⭐

Memorize these numbers first. Vermont DMV test questions are frequently built around specific distances, speeds, BAC levels, and time periods. These come up constantly.

Speed Limits

HIGH FREQUENCY

50 mph

Default maximum speed on all Vermont roads (other than interstates) is 50 mph or as posted (p.28). Always obey posted limits — many town and city streets are posted lower.

As posted

Vermont school zone signs say "when flashing" or "when children are present." The lower posted limit applies whenever those conditions exist (p.38).

65 mph

Maximum speed on Vermont interstates is 65 mph or as posted (p.28). All other Vermont roads default to 50 mph unless lower speeds are posted.

Posted

Speed limits are posted for ideal conditions. Drivers must reduce speed for rain, ice, heavy traffic, or any condition that makes the posted speed unsafe.

4 sec

Vermont uses the 4-second following-distance method. Pick a fixed checkpoint; when the vehicle ahead passes it, count "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two…" If you reach the checkpoint in less than 4 seconds, you are following too closely (p.27).

4+ sec

In rain, snow, fog, ice, at higher speeds, or behind a motorcycle (which can slow without lighting brake lights), allow MORE than 4 seconds. Behind animals or animal-drawn vehicles, leave at least 4 seconds (p.27, p.42, p.45).

📏

Critical Distances & Clearances

HIGH FREQUENCY

6 ft

Do not park within 6 feet of a fire hydrant (p.29).

20 / 75 ft

Do not park within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection. Do not park within 20 feet of a fire-station driveway, or across the street within 75 feet of one when signs are posted (p.29).

30 ft

Do not park within 30 feet of a flashing red or yellow light, stop sign, or traffic light (p.29).

50 ft

Do not park on railroad tracks or within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing (p.29).

12 in

On a 2-lane road your right wheels must be within 12 inches of the right side of the road or curb. On a one-way road the vehicle must be within 12 inches of the side (p.29).

Both headlights

After passing, return to your lane only when you can see BOTH headlights of the passed vehicle in your rearview mirror.

Dim

Promptly dim high beams when meeting or following another vehicle. Use low beams in fog, heavy rain, sleet, snow, or dust — high beams reflect off moisture and reduce your own visibility (p.49).

500 ft

Headlights are required from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, and any time you cannot clearly see persons or vehicles 500 feet ahead (p.46, p.49).

100 ft

Vermont law requires signaling not less than 100 feet before turning or changing lanes — about 3 to 5 seconds before the maneuver (p.26).

All seats

Vermont law requires ALL occupants of a motor vehicle to be restrained with a safety belt or federally approved child passenger restraint (p.62). Never tuck a shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back.

4 ft

Leave at least 4 feet of clearance between the right side of your vehicle and a bicyclist when passing. If the road is too narrow, wait until it is safe (p.40).

Stop

Stop from any direction on a 2-lane road when a school bus has its red warning lights flashing. The only exception is on a divided highway when the bus is traveling in the OPPOSITE direction (p.39-40).

🍺

DUI & Alcohol Numbers

ALWAYS ON TEST

0.08

Adult per se BAC limit in Vermont is 0.08. At or above this you are "under the influence" or "impaired" (p.52). Even below 0.08 you can still be impaired and charged.

0.02

Under-21 Zero Tolerance: BAC of 0.02 or more = civil traffic violation. License is suspended and the driver must complete an alcohol-and-driving education program at their own expense (p.52).

1st DUI

License suspension, large fine, lawyer fees, paid alcohol-and-driving education class, possible jail time, and significantly increased insurance rates (p.53). Vermont also uses an administrative suspension that can take effect before the criminal conviction.

Refusal = 6+ mo

Implied Consent: by holding a Vermont license, you have agreed in advance to take a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) when a police officer suspects DUI. Refusal = license loss for at least 6 months (p.53).

DMV fee

Reinstatement after a DUI suspension involves substantial fees, completion of an alcohol-and-driving education program, possible court-ordered ignition interlock, and proof of insurance. Contact Vermont DMV at 802.828.2000 for current amounts (p.53, p.67).

🎓

Teen / GDL Numbers

ON EXAM

Age 15

Minimum age for a Vermont Learner's Permit is 15. Hold for at least 1 year before applying for a Junior Driver's License. Supervisor must ride in the front seat: licensed parent/guardian, certified driver-ed instructor, OR licensed person 25+ — all unimpaired (p.12-13, p.20).

Age 16

Junior Driver's License — typically age 16. Prereqs: held Learner's Permit at least 1 year, completed Vermont approved driver-ed (30 classroom + 6 BTW + 6 observation), 40 hours of supervised practice (10 at night), and a clean driving record for the prior 6 months (p.13, p.20).

No state curfew

Vermont does NOT impose a state-mandated nighttime curfew on Junior License holders, but parents are urged to set family rules around driving after 9 PM (p.73).

Phased

Junior License — first 3 months: drive ALONE only (or with an authorized adult in the front seat). Second 3 months: immediate family only (siblings + parents). After 6 months: no passenger limit (but never more than there are safety belts) (p.20-21).

12 months

You must hold a Vermont Learner's Permit for at least 1 year (12 months) before being eligible for a Junior Driver's License (p.13).

Age 18

Full Driver's License at age 18+ to applicants who pass the required examinations and have no recalls/suspensions in the prior 6 months. License: 4-year ($62) or 2-year ($39) (p.16, p.23).

⏱️

Following Distance & Time Rules

ON EXAM

4 sec

Vermont uses the 4-second method. Pick a checkpoint — sign, driveway, pole. Start counting "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two…" when the vehicle ahead passes it. If you reach the checkpoint in less than 4 seconds, you are following too closely (p.27).

4+ sec

In rain, snow, fog, ice, at higher speeds, behind motorcycles, slow-moving vehicles, or animals — increase well beyond 4 seconds (p.27, p.42, p.44, p.45).

75 / 240 ft

At 30 mph it takes about 75 feet to stop on dry pavement; at 60 mph it takes about 240 feet — more than 3× as far for double the speed. Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second. Stopping distance is much longer on wet, icy, or gravel roads (p.25, p.26, p.35).

$100–$500

Vermont prohibits ALL drivers from using a portable electronic device while operating a motor vehicle on a public highway, including when stopped at a red light. First violation: $100–$200; subsequent: $250–$500. In a work zone with personnel present: 2 points first conviction, 5 points subsequent. Junior Operator texting (JRT): 30-day recall + at least $100 fine + at least 2 points (p.21, p.55).

🚦

Road signs are tested heavily. Know each sign's shape, color, and meaning. The real test often shows a sign description and asks what it means.

🔴

Sign Shapes — Each Shape Has One Meaning

ALWAYS TESTED

Shape	Meaning	Example
Octagon (8-sided)	STOP — always and only	Stop sign
Triangle (pointing down)	YIELD — give right of way	Yield sign
Diamond	WARNING — hazard ahead	Curve, pedestrian, deer
Pentagon (5-sided)	SCHOOL ZONE	School crossing
Pennant (triangle right)	NO PASSING ZONE	No-passing pennant
Round (circle)	RAILROAD CROSSING advance warning	RR crossing sign
Rectangle (vertical)	REGULATORY — rules you must follow	Speed limit, turn restrictions
Rectangle (horizontal)	GUIDE or INFORMATION	Street name, mile marker
X-shaped crossbuck	RAILROAD CROSSING — treat like yield	Railroad crossbuck

🎨

Sign Colors — Color Tells You the Category

ALWAYS TESTED

Color	Category	What It Means
Red	Regulatory — STOP / PROHIBIT	Stop, yield, do not enter, wrong way, no-turn circles
Yellow	WARNING	General hazard warnings — curves, hills, intersections, animals
Orange	WORK ZONE / CONSTRUCTION	Construction ahead. In Vermont, fines are DOUBLED for speeding in a work zone. Electronic-device violations in a work zone with personnel present: 2 points first conviction, 5 points subsequent (p.35, p.55).
Green	GUIDE / DIRECTIONAL	Highway exits, distances, direction, mile markers
Blue	SERVICES	Gas, food, lodging, hospital, rest area
Brown	RECREATION / CULTURAL	Parks, campgrounds, historical sites, scenic areas
White	REGULATORY	Speed limits, lane rules, turn restrictions
Fluorescent Yellow-Green	WARNING — pedestrian / school / bike	School zones, crosswalks, bike lanes
Fluorescent Pink	INCIDENT MANAGEMENT	Crash clean-up, debris removal, temporary traffic control

⚠️

Signs That Are Frequently Confused

TRICKY

No Passing Pennant vs. No U-Turn: The pennant (pointing right) = no passing. A circle with a slash over a U-turn arrow = no U-turn. Very different.

Crossbuck (RR) vs. Stop Sign: The crossbuck (white X) = yield/slow down and check. Only stop if a train is coming. The octagon = always stop.

Divided Highway Begins vs. Ends: Begins = two arrows pointing apart (median starts). Ends = two arrows merging together (median ends — expect two-way traffic).

Merge vs. Lane Ends: Merge = two roads joining (both cars adjust). Lane Ends = one lane disappears — that driver must yield and merge.

Red Circle with Slash: Always means that action is PROHIBITED. No left turn, no trucks, no bicycles — whatever is inside the circle is forbidden.

⭐

Right of way is the #1 failure topic on the DMV knowledge test. Master every scenario below — these questions will be on your exam.

⛽

The Core Right-of-Way Rules

MOST TESTED

Uncontrolled intersection — arrive at same time: Yield to the driver on your RIGHT. This is the most tested right-of-way rule.

Left turn at green light: You must always yield to oncoming traffic AND pedestrians — even with a green light. A green light is permission to go, not a guarantee of right of way.

Pedestrians in a crosswalk: Always yield. Stop and wait until the pedestrian has completely crossed — not just stepped back. This includes jaywalkers in many situations.

Blind pedestrian (white cane / guide dog): Absolute right of way — you must stop regardless of where they are crossing.

Four-way stop: First to arrive goes first. Simultaneous arrival = yield to the driver on your right. Straight traffic before turning traffic if both arrive at same time from opposite directions.

Emergency vehicles (lights + siren): Pull to the right edge of the road and stop. Clear intersections first — never stop IN an intersection.

Entering from driveway / private road: Always yield to all traffic on the public road — you have no right of way entering from private property.

Roundabout: Vehicles inside the roundabout always have right of way. Entering traffic must yield. When exiting, yield to pedestrians at the crosswalk.

Merging onto a highway: Traffic already on the highway has right of way. The merging vehicle must yield and find a safe gap.

Non-functioning traffic signal: Treat as an all-way stop. All drivers stop, yield, and take turns.

💡

Right-of-Way Scenarios That Trick People

TRICKY

Yellow light: It does NOT mean speed up. If you can stop safely, you must. Proceed only if stopping would be unsafe (you're too close to stop).

Already in intersection when light turns red: Complete the turn — you are committed. Other traffic must wait for you to clear.

Backing out of a driveway: The reversing vehicle always yields to street traffic. You have no right of way in reverse.

Move-Over law: If you see a stopped police vehicle (blue lights), emergency vehicle (red lights), or any maintenance/towing/repair vehicle (often amber) on a 4-lane highway, you must change lanes if it is safe. If you cannot change lanes, slow down to 20 mph below the speed limit. Yield right of way to any state, city, or town maintenance vehicle (e.g., snowplow) working on a highway (p.31, p.51).

Right turn on red: Legal ONLY after a complete stop and yielding to ALL traffic and pedestrians. Rolling right on red is illegal.

Left on red: Legal ONLY when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street — after a complete stop and yielding.

🚥

Traffic Signal Meanings

ALWAYS TESTED

Signal	What You Must Do
Solid GREEN	Proceed — but yield to traffic already in intersection
Solid YELLOW	Prepare to stop if safe; proceed only if stopping would be dangerous
Solid RED	Stop completely; may turn right on red after stop and yield (unless posted)
GREEN ARROW	Protected turn — oncoming traffic must stop. You may turn in the arrow's direction, but still yield to vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection.
YELLOW ARROW	Protected turn is ending — prepare to yield or stop
Flashing YELLOW ARROW	Unprotected turn — you MAY turn but MUST yield to oncoming and pedestrians
Flashing RED	Treat exactly like a STOP sign — stop, yield, proceed when safe
Flashing YELLOW	Caution — slow down and proceed carefully. Do not need to stop.
RED + GREEN ARROW	Stop for through traffic; turn in direction of arrow only
Signal NOT working	Treat as ALL-WAY STOP — all traffic stops

🛣️

Lane Markings — Know Each One

ON EXAM

Broken yellow center line: Passing is permitted from your side when it is safe.

Solid yellow line on your side: No passing from your side of the road.

Double solid yellow: No passing in either direction.

White lines: Separate traffic going in the same direction. Broken = lane change ok. Solid = discouraged (but not always illegal).

Yellow lines: Separate traffic going in opposite directions.

Center left-turn lane (two-way turn lane): Use ONLY to prepare for and make a left turn. Never use as a travel or passing lane.

Yellow X over a lane: Lane is CLOSED — move to a lane with a green arrow immediately.

White stop line: Stop your front bumper at or behind this line at intersections and crosswalks.

↔️

Safe Lane Changing Procedure

STEP BY STEP

Check your mirrors — rearview and side mirror on the side you're moving to

Signal your intent — give a continuous turn signal at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes (about 3 to 5 seconds in advance) (p.26).

Look over your shoulder — physically check the blind spot. Mirrors cannot see everything.

Change lanes gradually — smooth and controlled, not jerky

Cancel signal and adjust speed to match the lane's traffic flow

🚨

DUI questions appear on virtually every DMV knowledge test. Know the BAC levels, implied consent law, and penalties. Vermont uses the term "DUI" (Driving Under the Influence).

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DUI Laws — The Numbers You Must Know

ALWAYS ON TEST

Situation	Consequence
BAC of 0.08+ (driver 21+)	1st-offense DUI: license suspension, large fine, lawyer fees, paid alcohol-and-driving education class, possible jail time, and significantly increased insurance rates. Vermont also uses an administrative suspension that can take effect before the criminal conviction (p.52-53).
Impairment below the legal BAC limit	You can still be charged. The Vermont manual states: "a person is impaired at blood alcohol concentration levels below .08. Even one drink impairs your judgment." Drivers impaired by ANY drug — alcohol, prescription, OTC, or controlled — can be arrested for DUI (p.52-53).
Test refusal (Implied Consent)	By holding a Vermont license, you have agreed in advance to take a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) when an officer suspects DUI. Refusal = license loss for at least 6 months. Reinstatement requires payment of fees, completion of an alcohol-and-driving education program, and proof of insurance (p.53).
BAC — under 21 (Zero Tolerance)	BAC of 0.02 or more = civil traffic violation. License is suspended and the driver must complete an alcohol-and-driving education program at their own expense (p.52).
CDL / commercial driver BAC	Federal law sets the CDL BAC threshold at 0.04 (lower than the 0.08 standard) while operating a commercial motor vehicle. Vermont enforces this for CDL holders (Ch. 10 of the manual, p.70).
DUI — causing death or injury	Severely elevated criminal charges, much larger fines, lengthy prison time, and long-term license revocation. Driving while under the influence and causing a death is among the most serious motor-vehicle offenses in Vermont (p.53, p.67).

💡

Critical DUI Facts to Remember

TESTED

Implied consent: By holding a Vermont license, you have agreed in advance to take a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) when an officer suspects DUI. Refusal = license loss for at least 6 months. Reinstatement requires fee payment, alcohol-and-driving education, and proof of insurance (p.53).

Only TIME removes alcohol: Coffee, food, cold showers, and fresh air do NOT lower your BAC. Your liver processes about 1 drink per hour — nothing speeds this up.

Impairment starts with the first drink: Judgment is the FIRST driving ability affected. The Vermont manual is explicit: "a person is impaired at blood alcohol concentration levels below .08. Even one drink impairs your judgment" (p.52).

Under-21 Zero Tolerance: Drivers under 21 with a BAC of 0.02 or more receive a civil traffic violation. License is suspended and they must complete an alcohol-and-driving education program at their own expense (p.52).

Mixing drugs and alcohol: Never drink alcohol while taking medications or other drugs. Combinations may multiply effects, reduce driving ability, and cause serious health problems or death. Having a prescription is not a defense if the medication impairs driving.

Cell phone law: Vermont prohibits ALL drivers from using a portable electronic device while operating a motor vehicle on a public highway — even when stationary. Reading or sending messages while driving is also illegal. Fine: $100–$200 first violation; $250–$500 subsequent. Junior Operator texting (JRT): 30-day recall + 2 points (p.21, p.55).

Drugs and driving: Driving while impaired by any drug — prescription, over-the-counter, or controlled — is illegal. Even legally prescribed medications that impair your ability to drive can lead to a DUI charge.

🚌

School bus rules are heavily tested. In Vermont, you must STOP from any direction on a 2-lane road when a school bus has its red warning lights flashing. The only exception: on a divided highway you do NOT have to stop if the bus is traveling in the OPPOSITE direction (p.39-40).

🚌

School Bus Stopping Rules

HEAVILY TESTED

Two-lane / undivided road: ALL traffic in BOTH directions must stop when a school bus has its red warning lights flashing. The Vermont manual: "Never pass from any direction when the red lights are on" (p.39).

Divided-highway exception: On a divided highway you do NOT have to stop if the school bus is traveling in the OPPOSITE direction. A concrete barrier or median between you and the bus also exempts you (p.40).

Same direction — always stop: Traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus must ALWAYS stop, regardless of road type or number of lanes.

After the bus stops: Remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or deactivates its warning signals AND all loading/unloading passengers have cleared the roadway. Then proceed slowly, watching carefully for children near the roadway.

When may you proceed: Only when the red lights STOP flashing, the stop arm retracts, and the bus begins moving. It is unlawful to pass a stopped school bus while it is loading or unloading passengers.

Yellow lights = warning: Yellow flashing = bus is about to stop. Slow down immediately and prepare to stop. Do not try to pass before it stops.

School buses must stop at ALL railroad crossings — regardless of whether warning signals are active. This is federal law.

Penalty for passing a stopped school bus: A substantial fine plus 5 points on your driver's license — among the highest-point violations in Vermont. Accumulating 10 points triggers a suspension warning letter from the DMV (p.40, p.64).

Subsequent / serious offenses: Causing injury or death while illegally passing a stopped school bus carries severely elevated criminal charges, license revocation, and substantial fines and potential prison time. Contact the Vermont DMV at 802.828.2000 for current statutory penalty details.

Speed Laws — What You Must Know

ON EVERY TEST

Basic Speed Law: Drive at a speed that is reasonable and proper for existing conditions — even if that means going below the posted limit. Rain, fog, heavy traffic, school zones all require reduced speed.

Posted limits are MAXIMUMS: You may never legally exceed a posted limit, regardless of conditions, traffic, or what other drivers are doing.

Minimum speed law: Do not drive so slowly that you impede or block the normal flow of traffic. Driving too slowly is also illegal.

Work zone caution: Reduce speed in work zones. In Vermont, fines are DOUBLED for speeding in a work zone (p.35). Cones, drums, and barricades guide traffic through; never overcrowd workers or equipment. Flagger directions must be obeyed.

"Over-driving your headlights": Headlights are required from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, AND any time visibility is less than 500 feet (rain, fog, snow, dust). At 40 mph at night with low beams, you may not be able to stop within the distance you can see ahead — that is over-driving your headlights. Always slow down at night and in fog (p.46, p.49).

Sight-distance rule for conditions: Pick a stationary object ahead and count your approach time. If you reach the object before the expected count — you are going too fast for the conditions. Slow down.

↔️

Following Distance — The 4-Second Rule

TESTED

Pick a fixed object — a sign, overpass, or lane marking ahead

When the car ahead passes it, start counting: "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three, one-thousand-four" (Vermont uses the 4-second method, p.27).

If you pass the object before 4 seconds — you are following too closely. Slow down and increase the gap. In adverse conditions (rain, snow, fog, ice, behind a motorcycle), increase well beyond 4 seconds (p.27, p.42).

💡 When to increase beyond the minimum

Rain, snow, ice, or fog → 4 seconds minimum
Driving at night → increase beyond the minimum
Following a large truck or motorcycle → 4+ seconds
Towing a trailer → 4 seconds minimum
Driving at highway speeds → increase distance proportionally

📐

Passing Rules

TESTED

✓

You MAY pass when: There is a broken yellow line on your side, you have sufficient sight distance, and there is no sign or condition prohibiting passing.

✗

NEVER pass: Vermont prohibits passing at hills, curves, railroads, intersections, or where there is a "changed path ahead." It is illegal to pass another vehicle at a railroad crossing. Under no conditions may a vehicle be passed by driving off the pavement or main traveled part of the road. Never pass a stopped school bus with red warning lights flashing — from any direction on a 2-lane road (p.39-40, p.51-52).

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When it is safe to return: You may move back into your original lane when both headlights of the passed vehicle are visible in your rearview mirror.

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Passing on the right: Legal when the vehicle ahead is making a left turn and there is a safe lane to the right, or on a multi-lane road.

🅿️

Parking Clearance Requirements

TESTED

Location	Minimum Clearance
Fire hydrant	6 ft — do not park within 6 ft (p.29).
Stop sign / yield sign / flashing signal / traffic control device	30 ft — do not park within 30 ft of a flashing red/yellow light, stop sign, or traffic light (p.29).
Pedestrian safety zone	Always prohibited — also do not park beside a vehicle stopped or parked at the side of a street (double-parking) (p.29).
Crosswalk at intersection	20 ft — do not park within 20 ft of a crosswalk at an intersection (p.29).
Railroad crossing	50 ft from nearest rail — do not park on tracks or within 50 ft of the nearest rail (p.29).
Fire station driveway	20 ft from the driveway on the same side / 75 ft across the street when signs are posted (p.29).
Driveway entrance (public or private)	Not in front of — always prohibited
Accessible (handicapped) space	Never without a valid placard/plate — illegal parking is subject to fines and towing charges. Disabled Plates/Placards are issued by the VT DMV (p.29, p.71).
Inside an intersection or on a crosswalk	Never — always illegal
Bridge, overpass, or tunnel	Always prohibited — do not park on a bridge or in a tunnel (p.29).
No Stopping zone	Never stop here, for any reason
No Parking zone	No parking — may stop to load/unload

⛰️

Parking on Hills — Wheel Position

TRICK QUESTION

💡

The rule: always turn wheels so that if the car rolls, it rolls away from traffic or is caught by the curb.

Situation	Turn Wheels	Why
Facing DOWNHILL, WITH curb	RIGHT (into curb)	Car rolls into curb and stops
Facing DOWNHILL, NO curb	RIGHT (away from road)	Car rolls away from traffic
Facing UPHILL, WITH curb	LEFT (away from curb)	Car rolls back, caught by curb
Facing UPHILL, NO curb	RIGHT (away from road)	Car rolls away from traffic

💡 Memory trick

Going downhill with a curb = wheels RIGHT into the curb
Going uphill with a curb = wheels LEFT, away from curb (tire catches it when rolling back)
No curb either way = wheels RIGHT, away from road

🎓

GDL questions appear on many tests. Know Vermont's Graduated Driver Licensing program, the restrictions in each phase, and the specific ages, hold periods, and curfew hours.

🎓

Vermont Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)

ON EXAM

Phase 1 — Learner's Permit (age 15+)

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Minimum age: 15. Applicants under 18 must have a clean driving record for the previous 2 years and need a parent/guardian signature on the application. Permit fee: $24 (or combined exam + permit = $63). Driver-ed (30 hr classroom + 6 BTW + 6 observation) is required to advance to a Junior Driver's License (p.12-13, p.23).

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A Vermont Learner's Permit is "provisional" and recallable. As a parent or guardian you may suspend your child's provisional license by writing to the Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles. While a recall is in effect the holder is ineligible for a Junior Driver's License or Driver's License. No reinstatement fee is due when a Permit recall is restored (p.21, p.73).

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Supervisor in the FRONT seat must be ONE of: a licensed and unimpaired parent/guardian, a licensed/certified and unimpaired driver education instructor, OR a licensed and unimpaired person at least 25 years old (p.20).

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Hold the Learner's Permit for at least 1 year before applying for a Junior Driver's License — and complete 40 hours of supervised practice with at least 10 hours at night (p.13). Vermont prohibits ALL drivers from using a portable electronic device on a public highway, including when stationary; Junior Operator texting (JRT) carries a 30-day recall + $100+ fine + at least 2 points (p.21, p.55).

Phase 2 — Junior Driver's License (age 16–17)

→

Eligibility: at least 16 years old; held a Learner's Permit for at least 1 year; completed Vermont approved driver-ed (30 hr classroom + 6 BTW + 6 observation); 40 hours of supervised practice with at least 10 at night; clean driving record for the prior 6 months. The accompanying driver must certify the supervised hours (p.13, p.20).

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Restrictions: First 3 months — drive ALONE only (or with an authorized adult in the front seat). Second 3 months — immediate family only (siblings + parents). After 6 months — no passenger limit, but never more than there are safety belts. Cannot drive for an employer for 1 year (or until age 18). No carrying passengers for hire. ALL drivers prohibited from using a portable electronic device on a public highway. Vermont does NOT impose a state nighttime curfew, but parents are urged to set family rules (p.20-21, p.55, p.73).

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Junior Driver's License fee: $39 (with the $23 road test = $62 total). The license is "provisional" and recallable. To upgrade to a full Driver's License, the holder must be 18+ with no recalls/suspensions/revocations during the prior 6 months (the 6-month period commences on the date of reinstatement if applicable) (p.16, p.20-21, p.23).

Full Unrestricted License (age 18+)

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Age 18+. License: 4-year ($62) or 2-year ($39). License photo is valid for 8 years (updated at each in-person renewal). Junior License holders who reach 18 with no recalls/suspensions in the prior 6 months can upgrade without retesting (p.16, p.23).

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Adult first-time applicants (18+, no prior Vermont license): vision test, knowledge test (20 questions, 16/20 to pass), and road test (40 hrs of actual driving experience recommended, with at least 5 hrs in traffic). Applicants from out-of-state with a valid license have 60 days to obtain a Vermont license; CDL holders must transfer within 30 days (p.12, p.18-19).

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Vermont prohibits ALL drivers from using a portable electronic device while operating a motor vehicle on a public highway, including when stationary. Reading or sending messages while driving is also illegal. Fine: $100–$200 first violation; $250–$500 subsequent. In a work zone with personnel present: 2 points first conviction, 5 points subsequent (p.55).

🛡️

Emergency Situations — What to Do

TESTED

💨

Tire blowout: Hold the wheel FIRMLY. Ease off gas (don't brake suddenly). Let the car slow naturally. Then gently steer to safety. Sudden braking causes a spin.

💧

Hydroplaning: Ease off gas, hold wheel steady, avoid braking. Let tires re-contact the road. Don't jerk the wheel or brake hard.

🔥

Engine fire: Pull over immediately, turn off engine, get EVERYONE out and move far away (100+ feet). Call 911. Never open the hood.

⚡

Brakes fail: Shift to a lower gear. Use the parking brake gradually. Look for a safe area to slow to a stop. Rub a tire on the curb if needed.

🌊

Accelerator sticks: Shift to NEUTRAL immediately. Apply brakes. Pull over. Turn engine off.

🌀

Vehicle skids: Ease off gas and brakes. Steer in the direction you want the front to go (into the skid). Do not overcorrect.

🚂

Stalled on railroad tracks: Get everyone out immediately. Move away from the vehicle and the tracks. Locate the Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign for emergency contact information, and call for help — tell them a vehicle is on the tracks.

🌫️

Driving in fog: Use LOW beams (high beams reflect off fog and blind you). Slow significantly. Use fog lights if available. Consider pulling over.

😴

Drowsy driving: Only cure = sleep. Pull over and rest. Coffee, window down, and music are NOT effective solutions. Drowsy driving equals drunk driving in impairment level.

❄️

Stranded in a blizzard: Stay in the vehicle (it's shelter and visible). Run engine briefly for heat with window cracked to prevent CO poisoning. Signal for help with hazards.

🧠

Defensive Driving Principles

ESSENTIAL

Scan ahead: Look well ahead of your vehicle — at least a city block in town and farther on highways. Check mirrors every few seconds and whenever slowing, changing lanes, or approaching intersections.

Keep an escape route: Always know where you could go if the car ahead stopped suddenly.

Bridges freeze first: Cold air circulates above AND below a bridge. Bridges ice before road surface — always treat them as potentially icy in winter.

Head-on collision approaching: Brake hard and steer RIGHT — even off the road. A head-on crash at speed is almost always fatal; going off-road is survivable.

Road rage: Never engage, retaliate, or make eye contact. Don't respond with gestures. Slow down, create distance. Report to 911 if dangerous.

Front wheel off pavement: Don't jerk the wheel — it can roll the car. Ease off gas, brake gently, and gradually steer back. Hold on tight.

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Vehicle Equipment Requirements

TESTED

Equipment	Requirement
Headlights (on)	Required from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, and any time you cannot clearly see persons or vehicles 500 feet ahead (rain, fog, snow, dust). Use LOW beams in fog (p.46, p.49).
High beams (dim)	Promptly dim high beams when meeting or following another vehicle. Use low beams in fog, heavy rain, sleet, snow, dust, or any condition with reduced visibility — high beams reflect off the moisture and reduce your own visibility (p.49).
Horn	Use when needed to prevent a crash. Do NOT use to express anger, greet friends, or encourage others to move. Avoid around blind pedestrians and animal-drawn vehicles.
Turn signals	Vermont law requires signaling not less than 100 feet before turning or changing lanes. Signaling 3 to 5 seconds before any of these actions covers this requirement. If your directional or brake lights are not working, use hand signals (p.26).
Tinted windows	Illegal tinting of front windows is not allowed; the road test will not be given in a vehicle with illegal front-window tinting. The driver must have a clear view to the front and sides — nothing should obstruct vision. Nothing may hang from the rearview mirror or sun visors (p.19, p.61).
TVs / video screens visible to driver	Prohibited while vehicle is in motion (navigation is typically excepted — confirm against Vermont manual).
Muffler	Must prevent excessive or unusual noise
Brakes	Vehicles must have working service brakes capable of stopping under control. Parking brake required. Test brakes lightly after driving through deep water to dry them out.
Wipers	Must adequately clean the windshield when used
Tail lights / rear reflector	Tail lights and rear reflectors are required equipment on all vehicles. Keep lenses clean for night-driving visibility.
Tires	Tire condition and tread composition directly affect stopping distance. Proper inflation and good tread are critical.
Hazard lights	For use when parked/stopped in an emergency — not while driving normally
Seat belts & child restraints	ALL occupants must be restrained with a safety belt or federally approved child restraint. Children under 2: rear-facing (never in front of an active airbag). Over 2 but under 5: rear- or forward-facing harnessed seat. Under 8 (not in harnessed seat): booster. Under 13: back seat if practical. Under 18 (not in harnessed/booster): seat belt (p.62-63).

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Headlight Rules That Are Tested

TESTED

Headlights required by Vermont law: from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise, AND any time you cannot clearly see persons or vehicles 500 feet ahead — including fog, rain, snow, and dust (p.46, p.49).

Parking lights ≠ headlights: Parking lights are for indicating a parked vehicle only. Headlights are required for driving during the hours and conditions above — not parking lights.

Dim high beams: Promptly dim your headlights when meeting or following another vehicle. Use low beams on lighted roads and in fog, rain, snow, or any condition with reduced visibility — high beams reflect off the moisture and blind you (p.49).

Night driving — "drive in your headlights": Never drive faster than you can stop within the distance lit by your headlights. This is called over-driving your headlights and is dangerous.

⚡

Before the Test — What to Do

PREPARATION

Take the DMV Exam Simulator at least 5 times and score 90%+ consistently. Don't go in when you're scoring 80% — aim higher than the minimum.

Use the "Weak Spots" mode the night before. Every question you got wrong — review those explanations until you understand WHY, not just what the answer is.

Memorize the Key Numbers tab — BAC limits, distances, suspension periods, speed limits. These are direct exam fodder.

Get a good night's sleep. Drowsy test-taking impairs recall just like drowsy driving impairs reaction time.

Bring required documents: Proof of identity (e.g., U.S. birth certificate or passport), Social Security number, proof of Vermont residency (utility bill, lease, bank statement), and proof of lawful U.S. presence. Applicants under 18: parent/guardian signature on the application + driver-ed completion certificate. Bring glasses or contacts if you wear them — Vermont vision standard is 20/40 (p.8-11, p.18).

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During the Test — How to Answer

STRATEGY

The safest answer is usually correct. When in doubt, pick the option that is most cautious, most yields, or stops the most. Vermont tests reward safe, defensive driving choices.

Watch for "NEVER" and "ALWAYS" options. These are sometimes traps — but in driving law there are many absolute rules (ALWAYS stop for a school bus with flashing reds, NEVER pass on a hill crest, etc.).

"All of the above" is very often the correct answer on knowledge tests — especially for questions about DUI charges, suspension triggers, and violations.

Read every word. Test questions often hinge on words like "divided highway" vs. "undivided," "business district" vs. "residential," or "first offense" vs. "subsequent offense."

Refusing a BAC test — can cost your license. Refusing a chemical test under Vermont's Implied Consent law results in license loss for at least 6 months. Vermont also has an administrative suspension that can take effect before any criminal DUI conviction — refusal does NOT protect you from consequences (p.53).

The real Vermont DMV knowledge test: 20 questions, all multiple-choice with four options. Road signs are integrated (not separate). You must answer at least 16 correctly (80%) to pass. Test taken online at mydmv.vermont.gov. If you fail, wait at least one day before retaking. Test fee: $39 (with $24 permit = $63 combined) (p.18, p.23).

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Recommended Study Order

YOUR PLAN

Read Key Numbers tab — memorize every distance, speed, and BAC number

Read Right of Way + DUI tabs — the #1 and #2 failure topics

Read Road Signs + Signals tabs — shapes, colors, and signal meanings

Read School Buses + Parking tabs — specific rules with specific numbers

Take the Full Practice Bank — all available questions to identify weak spots

Use Weak Spots mode — drill every question you got wrong until you nail it

Run the DMV Exam Simulator 3–5 times — pass consistently with 90%+ before going in

Night before: Re-read the Key Numbers tab + Test-Day Tips tab. Good sleep. You've got this. ✅

🎯

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🚦 Road Signs Guide 📋 Cheat Sheet ❓ FAQ

📖 Vermont DMV Study Guide

What to Study Before the Real Test

Speed Limits

Critical Distances & Clearances

DUI & Alcohol Numbers

Teen / GDL Numbers

Following Distance & Time Rules

Sign Shapes — Each Shape Has One Meaning

Sign Colors — Color Tells You the Category

Signs That Are Frequently Confused

The Core Right-of-Way Rules

Right-of-Way Scenarios That Trick People

Traffic Signal Meanings

Lane Markings — Know Each One

Safe Lane Changing Procedure

DUI Laws — The Numbers You Must Know

Critical DUI Facts to Remember

School Bus Stopping Rules

Speed Laws — What You Must Know

Following Distance — The 4-Second Rule

💡 When to increase beyond the minimum

Passing Rules

Parking Clearance Requirements

Parking on Hills — Wheel Position

💡 Memory trick

Vermont Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)

Emergency Situations — What to Do

Defensive Driving Principles

Vehicle Equipment Requirements

Headlight Rules That Are Tested

Before the Test — What to Do

During the Test — How to Answer

Top 10 Topics That Will Definitely Be on Your Test

Recommended Study Order

Ready to test what you've learned?