Vermont CDL Study Guide
Vermont issues Commercial Driver Licenses (CDLs) through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The process is to study the Vermont CDL Manual, pass written knowledge tests at a DMV office to receive a Commercial Learner's Permit (CLP), hold the CLP for at least 14 days, complete federally required Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), and then pass a road skills test.
Key Vermont numbers
- Minimum age (intrastate): 18
- Minimum age (interstate or hazmat): 21
- CLP hold before skills test: at least 14 days
- General Knowledge passing score: 80%
- General Knowledge test: ~50 questions
- Air Brakes test: ~25 questions (required if your vehicle has air brakes)
- Combination Vehicles test: ~20 questions (required for Class A)
Topics on the Vermont General Knowledge test
- Vehicle inspection (pre-trip, en-route, post-trip)
- Driving safely (speed management, space management, hazard perception)
- Transporting cargo safely
- Air brakes (if your vehicle is air-braked)
- Combination vehicles (Class A)
If you fail a test
Vermont CDL applicants who fail a knowledge or skills test can retest, but each attempt requires paying the applicable $39 exam fee again. Check with Vermont DMV at the time of failure for the next available appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Who issues CDLs in Vermont?
The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, headquartered in Montpelier, issues CDLs at DMV offices across the state.
How much does a Vermont CDL cost?
Plan on $18 for the CLP, $39 each for the written and skills exam, $17 per endorsement test, $29 scheduling deposit, and $72 (2-year) or $108 (4-year) for the license.
How long do I have to hold my Vermont CLP?
You must hold the Vermont CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.
How many questions are on the Vermont General Knowledge test?
50 questions. You must answer at least 40 correctly (80%) within one hour to pass.
Is ELDT required in Vermont?
Yes. All first-time Class A or B applicants and first-time H, P, or S endorsement applicants must finish ELDT with an FMCSA-approved provider before taking the skills test.
Whatu0027s the minimum age for a Vermont CDL?
18 for driving inside Vermont (intrastate). 21 for interstate driving, hazmat hauling, and many passenger driving jobs.
Free practice
Start a Vermont General Knowledge quiz →
Sources: Vermont DMV CDL page Vermont CDL Manual VN-111 (PDF) Vermont DMV CDL Fees Vermont DMV Commercial Driveru0027s Learner Permit page