Before any license or permit is issued, you must prove who you are, your Social Security number and that you live in Vermont. Real ID and Enhanced licenses also need proof of lawful status. Bring original documents; copies won't work.
Bring documents from each category:
- 1. Identity and date of birth
- 2. Social Security information
- 3. Vermont residency and current address
- 4. Lawful status in the U.S. (only required for Real ID and EDL)
Know the rule
Documents must be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Faxed or photocopied documents are NOT accepted. Approval may take more than one visit.
Handbook p. 9 ↗Know the rule
If your name differs from your documents, bring proof of the legal change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order.
Handbook p. 9 ↗Identity and date of birth: one of
- A valid, unexpired passport
- A certified birth, marriage, adoption or divorce record (translated if needed)
- A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240, DS-1350 or FS-545)
- A valid consular ID from Mexico or Guatemala (or a comparable government)
- A valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)
- A Certificate of Naturalization (N-550/N-570) or Citizenship (N-560/N-561)
- A Real ID driver's license or ID card
Know the rule
An Enhanced Driver's License requires proof of U.S. citizenship as well as identity, SSN and residency. U.S. citizens returning by land or sea from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean or Bermuda need a passport, passport card or EDL.
Handbook p. 10 ↗Social Security proof:
- Your Social Security card, or an SSA letter saying you're ineligible for an SSN
- If the card isn't available: a W-2, an SSA-1099, or a pay stub with your name and SSN (at least last 4 digits)
Know the rule
Your name must verify with the Social Security Administration. Update the SSA first, then bring your updated card to the DMV.
Handbook p. 10 ↗The DMV won't issue a license or ID if you have less than 30 days of lawful presence remaining
Handbook p. 10 ↗Know the rule
Your residential address must be a street or highway address, not a post office box. A P.O. box may be your mailing address.
Handbook p. 11 ↗Residency proof if you get no mail at your street address (any two):
- Utility bill listing the service address
- Property tax bill with the physical location
- Lease or landlord statement
- Vermont EBT card or Vermont AIM ID card
- Homeowners or renters insurance (policy or proof of claim)
Know the rule
If mail comes to your street address, bring two pieces of mail with your current name and street address. Minors bring a Vermont Residency Certification, one parent residency document and proof of the parent's relationship.
Handbook p. 11 ↗Driver's Privilege Card
A Vermont license or permit that is NOT Real ID compliant. Any Vermont resident can get one without proof of legal presence or U.S. citizenship.
Handbook p. 12 ↗Self-designated descriptors
Height, weight, eye color and gender. You don't have to show documents to confirm what you enter for these.
Handbook p. 12 ↗Put it into practice
You bring a photocopy of your birth certificate and your lease. The copy is rejected, since only originals or certified copies count. You also need a second residency proof, such as a utility bill, if no mail comes to your street address.