In Vermont, seniors renew their driver’s licenses under the same basic rules as the general population, but with some important considerations and recent legislative changes that specifically affect older drivers.
Vermont offers two renewal cycle options: drivers can choose to renew their license for either two years or four years. The standard renewal fees are $32 for two years and $51 for four years, with an additional $30 fee if you opt for an Enhanced Driver’s License There is no specific age at which the renewal process changes automatically for seniors, but a new bill now requires applicants aged 70 and older to renew their licenses in person at a DMV office and to pass a vision test as part of the renewal process This is a significant update, as previously, there were no mandatory in-person or vision test requirements based solely on age.
For seniors under 70, renewals can often be completed by mail unless a new photo is required21. For those 70 and older, mail-in and online renewals are no longer permitted; these drivers must appear in person and pass the vision screening The vision test requires a minimum acuity of 20/40 in the better eye, and bioptic telescopes are allowed to meet this standard
There are no automatic written or road tests required for renewal, regardless of age, unless there is a specific medical or safety concern reported to the DMV If the DMV receives information suggesting a driver may be unsafe due to medical or cognitive reasons, a re-examination, which could include written, vision, or road tests, may be required.
Renewal notices are typically sent out by mail before your license expires, and it’s important to respond promptly—especially if you are 70 or older, as you’ll need to schedule an in-person appointment. Always bring the required documentation, including proof of identity and residency, and be prepared for the vision test.
Vermont seniors can renew their licenses for two or four years at standard fees, but if you are 70 or older, you must renew in person and pass a vision test. There are no automatic written or road tests unless medically required, and mail or online renewal is not available for this age group
Sources
[1] https://mywaynecountynow.com/license-renewal-for-seniors-in-vermont-what-you-need-to-know/
[2] https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/6-tips-elderly-drivers-license-renewals
[3] https://citizenportal.ai/articles/2361309/Vermont/Vermont-proposes-new-drivers-license-renewal-requirements-for-applicants-over-70
[4] https://www.caregiverlist.com/Vermont/seniordriving.aspx
[5] https://www.iihs.org/topics/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table
