In Vermont, the driver’s license renewal process for seniors offers options tailored to accommodate older drivers, with specific rules that become more stringent with age. As of 2025, Vermont permits seniors to renew their licenses every two or four years, with the fee structure reflecting these options—$30 for a two-year renewal and $60 for a four-year renewal. Notably, Vermont does not have a fixed age at which in-person renewal is mandatory for all seniors, and many may renew by mail unless a new photo or additional requirements are needed.
However, recent legislative proposals indicate changes aimed at enhancing safety for older drivers. For example, starting at age 70, applicants may be required to visit a DMV location in person to complete a vision test as part of the renewal process. This reflects Vermont’s effort to ensure that seniors maintain the visual acuity necessary for safe driving. Furthermore, for seniors aged 85 and older, there are recommendations or proposals for additional testing, including a mandatory road test, to assess their driving skills before license renewal is granted.
It is important for senior drivers in Vermont to monitor these evolving requirements, as in-person visits may become more common with age, especially when vision or road tests are needed. The state encourages older adults to stay safe behind the wheel and offers resources and guidance to help seniors maintain their driving independence while addressing potential age-related challenges.
Seniors should renew their licenses proactively since the standard license expiration in Vermont is tied to the birthday and renewal can be started up to six months before expiration. Driving with an expired license is illegal, and if a license has expired for over three years, reapplication involves retaking written and road tests just like a new driver.
In summary, Vermont’s 2025 license renewal system for seniors allows for flexible renewal cycles of two or four years, with evolving requirements for vision and road testing beginning around age 70 and increasing at age 85. Renewal by mail remains an option in many cases unless additional tests or photo updates are required. This system balances safety concerns with convenience to support senior drivers in continuing to drive responsibly and legally within the state.
Sources
(https://flashpath.app/vt/articles/vt_renew-drivers-license)
(https://www.iihs.org/research-areas/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table)
(https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/6-tips-elderly-drivers-license-renewals)
(https://citizenportal.ai/articles/2361309/Vermont/Vermont-proposes-new-drivers-license-renewal-requirements-for-applicants-over-70)
(https://www.healthvermont.gov/emergency/transportation-safety/older-adult-drivers)
