You’re planning to get your Commercial Driver’s License in Vermont — and you picked a beautiful but challenging state to do it. Vermont’s trucking industry keeps New England moving, with commercial vehicles navigating the winding Green Mountain passes, transporting dairy and maple products, hauling ski equipment to mountain resorts, and supporting the tourism that drives the state’s economy. From Burlington to Brattleboro, from St. Johnsbury to Rutland, qualified CDL holders are essential for Vermont’s year-round operations.
But before you can take the wheel of an 80,000-pound combination vehicle through Smugglers’ Notch or down Route 100 during peak foliage season, you need to pass the Vermont CDL exam. The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) administers the CDL program under federal FMCSA guidelines, and the process is rigorous by design — because the stakes on Vermont’s mountain roads and in winter conditions are real.
This guide gives you everything you need to prepare for the Vermont CDL test: exact test format, Vermont-specific requirements, what’s different from other states, and free practice tests covering every knowledge exam you’ll face.
🎯 Quick Start
New to CDL? Read the complete CDL study guide first. Already know the basics? Jump straight to the practice tests below.
Vermont CDL Requirements: What You Need to Know
Vermont follows the federal CDL standards established by the FMCSA under 49 CFR Part 383, with state-specific requirements administered by the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Here’s exactly what Vermont requires:
Age Requirements in Vermont
| License Type | Minimum Age | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Intrastate (Vermont only) | 18 years | Cannot drive across state lines |
| Interstate (all states) | 21 years | No state-line restrictions |
| HazMat Endorsement | 21 years | Federal requirement — no exceptions |
Vermont CDL Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| CLP Application | $15 | Valid for up to 180 days |
| CDL (new or renewal) | $60 | Standard fee period |
| Skills Test Fee | ~$100 | May vary by testing location |
| Endorsement Fees | Varies ($5-$30) | Per endorsement — contact local DMV |
Vermont ELDT Requirements
Since February 7, 2022, all new CDL applicants in Vermont must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) through an FMCSA-approved training provider. This is a federal requirement — no state can waive it. Vermont DMV verifies ELDT completion electronically through the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR).
ELDT is required for:
- Original Class A or Class B CDL
- Upgrading from Class B to Class A
- First-time School Bus (S), Passenger (P), or HazMat (H) endorsements
You must hold your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Your CLP is typically valid for 180 days to 1 year in Vermont.
Vermont CDL Test Format: What to Expect
The Vermont CDL exam has two parts: knowledge tests (written) and a skills test (driving). The knowledge tests are computer-based, multiple-choice, and administered at Vermont DMV offices or approved testing facilities.
Knowledge Tests Overview
| Test | Questions | Pass Score | Required For |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Knowledge | 50 | 80% (40 correct) | All CDL classes |
| Air Brakes | 25 | 80% (20 correct) | Class A & B (if vehicle has air brakes) |
| Combination Vehicles | 20 | 80% (16 correct) | Class A |
| HazMat (H) | 30 | 80% (24 correct) | HazMat endorsement |
| Tanker (N) | 20 | 80% (16 correct) | Tanker endorsement |
| Passenger (P) | 20 | 80% (16 correct) | Passenger endorsement |
| School Bus (S) | 20 | 80% (16 correct) | School bus endorsement |
| Doubles/Triples (T) | 20 | 80% (16 correct) | Double/triple trailers |
All Vermont CDL knowledge tests follow FMCSA content standards. The passing score is 80% on every test — no exceptions.
Vermont Skills Test: Three Parts
The Vermont CDL skills test may be administered through Vermont DMV offices or by authorized third-party testers. You must provide your own vehicle for the test, and it must be the same class of vehicle you’re applying for.
| Section | What It Tests | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Pre-Trip Inspection | Vehicle safety knowledge | Verbally identify and explain critical components: engine, brakes, tires, lights, coupling systems |
| 2. Basic Vehicle Control | Backing and maneuvering | Straight-line backing, offset backing, parallel parking, alley dock |
| 3. On-Road Driving | Real-world driving | Lane changes, turns, braking, gear usage, speed management, traffic law compliance |
Vermont skills test retake policy: If you fail any section, you typically only retake the failed section. The waiting period is generally 1 business day for knowledge tests and 14 days for skills tests. Check with your local DMV office for specific retake policies.
What Makes Vermont CDL Different from Other States?
The core CDL exam is federally standardized — the General Knowledge, Air Brakes, and endorsement tests cover the same material in every state. But Vermont has specific characteristics that make driving here unique:
Vermont-Specific Driving Conditions
- Mountainous terrain: The Green Mountains run north-south through the state, with 200+ mountains over 2,000 feet — Mount Mansfield peaks at 4,393 feet, making steep grades and winding roads the norm
- Harsh winter conditions: Vermont winters are long and cold (0°F to 30°F), with heavy snowfall — black ice on mountain passes and bridges is common, requiring winter driving expertise
- Mud season: Spring thaw creates hazardous road conditions and weight restrictions on secondary roads — commercial drivers must navigate soft surfaces and reduced load limits
- Ski industry transport: Heavy equipment and supplies must be hauled to ski areas like Stowe, Killington, and Stratton — mountain access roads are steep and often narrow
- Maple syrup season: Spring brings mobile sap collection trailers on roads throughout rural Vermont — unusual slow-moving agricultural vehicles are common
- Fall foliage tourism: September and October bring heavy RV and tourist bus traffic on Route 100 and scenic byways — commercial drivers must share narrow roads with peak-season visitors
- Historic covered bridges: Vermont has over 100 covered bridges, many with weight limits and width restrictions — commercial vehicles may need alternate routes
- Wildlife hazards: High deer and moose collision risk, especially at dawn and dusk — moose collisions are particularly dangerous due to the animal’s size
- Rural road networks: Many secondary roads are unpaved or seasonal — commercial drivers must know which routes can handle their vehicle year-round
- Limited highway miles: With only I-89 and I-91 as major interstates, much commercial traffic uses state routes through towns and villages — local road knowledge is essential
While the CDL knowledge test itself won’t ask you Vermont-specific questions beyond what’s in the standard handbook, understanding these conditions will make you a safer driver and help you contextualize the safety rules you’re learning.
Free Vermont CDL Practice Tests
Each practice test below covers one of the knowledge exams required for your Vermont CDL. Questions are based on the FMCSA CDL Manual. Select the test you need to prepare for:
Core Tests (Required for All CDL Applicants)
- General Knowledge Practice Test — 50 questions covering vehicle inspection, safe driving, cargo management, and CDL regulations
- Air Brakes Practice Test — 25 questions on air brake systems, inspection, and safe operation
- Combination Vehicles Practice Test — 20 questions on coupling, uncoupling, and operating combination vehicles
Endorsement Tests (Optional — Based on What You’ll Drive)
- HazMat (H) Practice Test — 30 questions on hazardous materials regulations, placarding, and emergency response
- Tanker (N) Practice Test — 20 questions on liquid surge, bulkhead systems, and safe tanker operation
- Passenger (P) Practice Test — 20 questions on passenger safety, loading/unloading, and emergency procedures
- School Bus (S) Practice Test — 20 questions on student safety, railroad crossings, and loading/unloading procedures
- Doubles/Triples (T) Practice Test — 20 questions on coupling multiple trailers and managing sway
Full-Length Comprehensive Tests
- CDL Full Practice Test — Comprehensive test mixing questions from all knowledge areas
How to Get Your Vermont CDL: Step by Step
- Meet the prerequisites: Be at least 18 (intrastate) or 21 (interstate), hold a valid Vermont driver’s license, and pass a DOT medical exam
- Complete ELDT training: Enroll in an FMCSA-approved Entry-Level Driver Training program and complete the theory portion
- Get your CLP: Visit a Vermont DMV office, pay the $15 fee, and pass the required knowledge tests to get your Commercial Learner’s Permit
- Hold your CLP for 14 days: Practice driving with a qualified CDL holder in the vehicle with you
- Schedule your skills test: Contact a Vermont DMV office or authorized third-party tester to book your appointment
- Pass the three-part skills test: Pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving
- Get your Vermont CDL: Return to the DMV with your test results, pay the $60 CDL fee, and get your new license
Vermont CDL Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the Vermont CDL General Knowledge test?
The Vermont CDL General Knowledge test has 50 multiple-choice questions. You need to answer at least 40 correctly (80%) to pass. The test covers vehicle inspection, safe driving practices, cargo management, CDL regulations, and more.
How much does a Vermont CDL cost?
The total cost includes a $15 CLP application fee and a $60 CDL fee. The skills test fee is approximately $100 (may vary by testing location). Additional costs include your DOT medical exam (typically $75–$150), ELDT training ($3,000–$8,000 if attending a school), and endorsement fees ($5–$30 each). Contact your local DMV for exact fees.
What happens if I fail a Vermont CDL knowledge test?
If you fail a knowledge test, you can retake it. Vermont typically requires a waiting period of at least 1 business day between attempts. Retake fees may apply. Check with your local DMV office for specific policies and any attempt limits. We recommend using our practice tests until you consistently score above 80% before attempting the real exam.
Can I get a Vermont CDL at 18?
Yes. Vermont allows you to get a CDL at 18 for intrastate driving only (within Vermont). You cannot cross state lines until you turn 21. The HazMat endorsement requires you to be at least 21, regardless of your license type.
Where do I take the Vermont CDL skills test?
Vermont CDL skills tests are administered at Vermont DMV offices or by authorized third-party testers. Known DMV offices include Montpelier (main office), Bennington, Dummerston, Newport, Rutland, Saint Albans, Saint Johnsbury, South Burlington, Springfield, and White River Junction. Contact your local office to confirm CDL testing availability and schedule an appointment.
Is the Vermont CDL test the same as other states?
The knowledge tests are based on the same FMCSA standards and cover the same material as in every other state. Questions about vehicle inspection, safe driving, cargo securement, and endorsements are standardized nationally. Your Vermont CDL is valid in all 50 states. However, Vermont’s mountainous terrain, harsh winters, and unique driving conditions make local knowledge especially important for safe operation.
Vermont CDL Resources & Official Links
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Vermont DMV Website | Visit website |
| FMCSA Training Provider Registry | Check ELDT status |
| FMCSA CDL Requirements | Federal standards |
| Vermont DMV Contact | (802) 828-2000 |
Start Practicing for Your Vermont CDL Today
Vermont’s industries — tourism, agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and education — all depend on qualified commercial drivers. Whether you’re hauling maple syrup, transporting ski equipment, moving goods through the Green Mountains, or supporting local businesses, your CDL opens doors to meaningful work in a state that values skilled professionals.
Our free practice tests are designed to match the real Vermont CDL exam format — same question count, same passing score, same content areas. Use them until you’re consistently scoring above 80%, and you’ll walk into the DMV testing center with confidence.
- 👉 Start with the General Knowledge Practice Test
- 📋 Take the Full Comprehensive Test
- 🚛 Practice Air Brakes
Good luck, future Vermont trucker. The Green Mountains are waiting. 🏔️