State motorcyclists must obtain a Vermont motorcycle license in order to legally operate any type of motorcycle in the state. The state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can issue motorbike license to drivers who already have a regular driver’s license and meets the state’s other eligibility requirements. Because residents must already possess a license to qualify for motorcycle privileges, the DMV does not usually issue stand-alone licenses.

Although drivers are not required to enroll in motorcycle classes in order to qualify for a permit or license, they can waive certain state exams by passing an accredited program. Drivers of any age can choose to apply for a motorcycle permit before applying for a license to have the chance to practice riding before being tested by the state, but it is not required. All drivers must submit a complete application with the necessary supplementary material and fees for their request to be successful.

What is a Vermont motorcycle endorsement?

Drivers can receive a Vermont motorcycle endorsement from the DMV if they meet the necessary eligibility criteria. Drivers receive an M endorsement on their existing driving license instead of a new, separate license. This new endorsement adds motorcycle privileges to the driver’s existing privileges. Generally, the only time the DMV issues a stand-alone license for the operation of motorcycles is when the driver has a disability and needs to operate three-wheeled motor vehicles.

Motorcycle Permit Requirements in Vermont

The motorcycle permit age in Vermont is the same as the regular license minimum at 16 years of age. To be qualified for any DMV motorcycle qualification, residents must possess a valid full or junior’s regular driver’s license or a commercial license. They must also be able to provide proof of their identification, residency and Social Security Number (SSN). Drivers can opt to enroll in an approved Vermont Motorcycle Awareness Program (VMAP) or sit for the state written knowledge exam. Drivers who are minors must have the express authorization of their parents to receive a permit.

Required Documents

The requirements for a motorcycle permit include presenting all of the following documents:

1. A Motorcycle Learner’s Permit application form, completed and signed (including a signature by a parent for minor drivers)
2. Proof of lawful presence in the U.S., such as a U.S.-issued birth certificate or United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) document
3. Two proofs of Vermont residency that include your name and current address, such as utility bills, paystubs, rent or mortgage receipts, landline phone bills, official bank statements, insurance policies or IRS-issued tax documents
4. Proof of identity, such as a U.S. original or certified birth certificate, a valid and current U.S.-issued passport or passport card
5. Proof of your SSN
6. Certificate of Completion from an accredited VMAP program (if applicable)

Vermont Motorcycle Permit Rules and Restrictions

What does a motorcycle permit allow you to do? Drivers who earn a VT DMV motorcycle permit are allowed to practice driving a motorcycle any time during daylight hours. Also, permit holders are not entitled to carry any passengers when operating a motorcycle or to travel outside of state lines. Drivers with a permit can, however, drive a motorcycle to the DPS to complete their road skills exam.

How to Get a Motorcycle Permit in Vermont

The application for a motorcycle learners permit can be completed in a few simple steps. Drivers who meet DPS requirements to operate a motorcycle can submit an application by following these instructions:

1. Print or pick up a copy of the Vermont Motorcycle Learner’s Permit Minors must make sure they include one signature from a parent authorizing the DPS to issue a license. Complete and sign it.
2. Gather the necessary identification document, proof of your SSN, two proofs of in-state residency and proof of lawful presence in the U.S. (if applicable). Include your certificate of completion from a VMAP program, if applicable.
3. Prepare the necessary application fees.
4. Bring the completed application and supporting documentation to your nearest VT DPS branch office.
5. Take the vision exam.
6. Take the written knowledge-based exam if not presenting an education course completion certificate.
7. Submit your complete application packet for the permit. Your permit will be valid for 120 days and valid for renewal two times.

Vermont Motorcycle License Requirements

The motorcycle license age is the same as the permit minimum at 16 years of age. Other Vermont requirements for a motorcycle license include having in-state residency and being able to prove lawful presence in the U.S. The application requirements for a license are the same as those for a permit, in addition to passing the road skills exam. All applicants for a motorcycle privileges must gather the following documentation:

• An Application for License or Permit (Non-Commercial) form, completed and signed (including a signature by a parent for minor drivers)
• Proof of identity
• Proof of your SSN
• Two proofs of Vermont residency
• Proof of lawful presence in the U.S.
• Certificate of Completion from an accredited VMAP program (if applicable)

How to Get a Motorcycle License in Vermont

To get a motorcycle license, drivers can take one of two application pathways. Drivers can choose between getting a motorcycle license by first receiving a learner’s permit or by applying directly for a full license. Drivers with a motorcycle permit in Vermont are only required to sit for the skills exam to transfer their permit to a license. Other drivers can take the following steps:

1. Print or pick up a copy of the Vermont Application for License or Permit (non-commercial) form. Minors should remember to get an authorization signature from a parent. Complete and sign it.
2. Look into where to get a motorcycle license near you. You may be able to schedule an appointment to submit the application and sit the exams at your nearest DPS licensing center.
3. Gather the necessary ID, proof of your SSN, two proofs of Vermont residency and proof of lawful presence in the U.S. Include your certificate of completion from a VMAP program, if applicable.
4. Prepare the necessary application fees.
5. Bring the completed application and supporting material to your nearest DPS branch licensing office.
6. Take the vision exam.
7. Take the written knowledge-based exam if not presenting a VMAP course completion certificate.
8. If successful, take the road skills test.
9. If you passed, wait to receive your new license with motorcycle privileges in the mail.

Getting a Vermont Motorcycle License as a New Resident

New residents are required to get a new bike license from the DPS within 60 days of taking up residency in the state. To get a new Vermont DMV motorcycle license, applicants must bring the necessary documents to a nearby DPS location in person. Drivers should note that they will be asked to surrender their previous license when requesting a new card. New residents must bring the following documents to the DPS when applying for a credential:

• Valid driver’s license that is current or has not been expired for more than one year
• Proof of identity
• Proof of your SSN
• Two proofs of Vermont residency
• Proof of lawful presence in the U.S.

Required Motorcycle Classes in Vermont

Enrolling in a motorcycle safety course is not required for drivers to be eligible to receive motorcycle privileges. Signing up for an eligible VT motorcycle training program provides drivers with multiple benefits, however. The state-recommended VMAP course lasts four hours and covers the basics of safe vehicle operation and defensive riding techniques. Drivers who complete the course can waive the state’s written knowledge exam.

Several types of other motorcycle training course programs are available for riders of all levels at locations across the state. The VREP Basic Motorcycle Course, Intermediate Course and Experienced Rider License Waiver Course are all offered multiple times a year and allow the driver to waive both the knowledge and road skills exams if completed. Most classes require that drivers have at least a regular driver’s license to participate, while more advanced classes require that the driver already have his or her motorcycle privileges.

Vermont DMV Motorcycle Test Details

Drivers who do not take any type of motorcycle license class will be required to take all of the state’s qualification exams. Drivers who have taken a VMAP or VREP course can waive the written DPS motorcycle test written knowledge exam and possibly the road skills exam as well. Drivers will not be permitted to take the driving exam until they have successfully completed the knowledge exam and vision screening.

Motorcycle Written Test

The written motorcycle license test in VT is composed of 25 multiple choice questions of which at least 20 must be answered correctly for the driver to pass. All of the topics covered in the exam are explained in great length in the Vermont Motorcycle Operator’s Manual. The results of the written exam are valid for 120 days from completion.

Motorcycle Road Test

Most drivers must complete the DMV motorcycle driving test, unless they completed the on-the-bike training of an accredited program. The road skills test examines the driver’s ability to safely operate a motorcycle under a variety of conditions. The driver must provide his or her own motorcycle for the test.

Do you need a motorcycle license to drive a scooter in Vermont?

Drivers must have an M endorsement on their driver’s license in order to operate all types of motorcycles, including scooters. The DPS encourages scooter operators to enroll in the state-approved Scooter Basic RiderCourse to learn how to safely operate scooters.

Other Vehicles

Drivers must also have an M license in Vermont if they would like to operate motorized vehicles with three wheels, like ATVs. Most motor-driven cycles with small engines require drivers to have a regular license but no special motorcycle privileges.

Vermont Motorcycle License Costs

How much does it cost to get a motorcycle license in Vermont? The total motorcycle license cost for a driver depends on the exams that he or she must take to qualify.

Vermont drivers can expect to pay the following fees for motorcycle privileges:

• Written knowledge exam fee: $9.00
• Road skills test fee: $19.00
• Motorcycle Learner Permit fee: $20.00
• Cost per year for a motorcycle endorsement: $3.00

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