A disability doesn't automatically keep you from driving. You may need special equipment, and some medical conditions must be reported before you test. Vermont also offers disabled parking plates and placards, and some fuel and tax benefits.
Know the rule
A person with a disability may still be able to get a license. Any special equipment must fit and work properly. Be truthful with the examiner about your disability, and tell the scheduler if you need help getting into the building.
Handbook p. 72 ↗Notify the DMV Driver Improvement Section (802.828.2000) before scheduling an exam if you have:
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes requiring insulin injection
- Any other condition that may result in a loss of consciousness
- Loss of a limb
- A wheelchair
Know the rule
You'll be sent a medical evaluation form for your doctor to complete and mail back. The DMV tells you in writing whether you're approved for a Learner's Permit.
Handbook p. 72 ↗A person who has trouble walking may park free, for 10 days, where others may park only a set time, with a disabled plate or placard
Handbook p. 72 ↗Know the rule
A disabled plate or placard does not allow parking where parking or stopping is prohibited, in places reserved for certain vehicles, or anywhere parking is banned.
Handbook p. 72 ↗Know the rule
A disabled person can get Disabled Registration Plates for each vehicle registered in their name, at no extra fee if the vehicle is already registered in Vermont.
Handbook p. 72 ↗Know the rule
A Disabled Parking Placard is for a disabled person who doesn't own a vehicle or doesn't want plates. It's also available to blind passengers and to organizations with a Federal ID number. There is no fee; the form comes from the DMV, State Police or Town Clerk, with a part your doctor fills out.
Handbook p. 72 ↗Know the rule
Plates or a placard may be revoked if the owner lets people who aren't disabled abuse them. Parking in a disabled spot illegally can bring a fine and towing charges.
Handbook p. 72 ↗Know the rule
Stations displaying the disability access symbol must give full service to disabled plate or placard holders, at the self-service price where cheaper self-serve is offered. At self-service stations, an attendant must pump gas at the self-service price when asked.
Handbook p. 73 ↗One adapted vehicle may be exempt from Purchase and Use Tax if:
- You have a disability that has left you permanently disabled
- Its controls are altered so you can drive it, or it has a mechanical lift for entry and exit
- Your license is restricted to altered controls, if you claim the exemption for altered controls
- You have only one active registration with this tax exemption at a time
- You submit Form VT-014 signed by a physician
Put it into practice
Your grandfather has trouble walking and no longer owns a car. He can get a free Disabled Parking Placard to use when you drive him. With it you may park free for up to 10 days in a time-limited space, but never in a no-parking or no-stopping zone.