Moving to Vermont: a checklist for new residents

After you move to Vermont, you have 60 days to get a Vermont driver's license and register your vehicles, or less if your out-of-state license or registration expires first. Vehicles must be inspected within 15 days of registration. The state's individual relocation grant is no longer funded, but regional partners such as the Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce help new residents through the state's GROW program.

Reviewed by Rise Realty Properties, 493 Main St, Barton, VT. Last updated 2026-10-25.

When do I need a Vermont driver's license?

Within 60 days of moving to Vermont, or before your out-of-state license expires if that comes first (Vermont DMV; 23 V.S.A. § 601). Bring your license from your previous state, valid or expired less than three years, and documents proving your identity and Vermont residency. An eye exam is required, and your out-of-state license is surrendered when the Vermont license is issued.

How long do I have to register my car in Vermont?

Within 60 days of moving, or before your out-of-state registration expires if that comes first. To register you generally need a Vermont driver's license or non-driver ID; part-time residents, students and contract employees can use other documents listed by the DMV. Bring the registration application, the vehicle title, a current odometer reading and proof of any purchase and use or sales tax paid to another state.

Will I pay Vermont tax on a car I already own?

The DMV values the vehicle using J.D. Power and works out the Vermont purchase and use tax. Tax you already paid to another state on that vehicle is deducted, and you pay any difference. No credit is given for property or excise tax. If the vehicle is already titled or registered in your name in a state that collects tax, show that title or registration instead of a tax receipt.

When does my car need a Vermont inspection?

Within 15 days of registering it, unless it already displays a valid Vermont inspection sticker. Bring your insurance card. All vehicles must carry at least the state minimum liability insurance.

Are there incentives for moving to Vermont?

The state's Worker Relocation Grant Program, which offered reimbursement grants, no longer has funding (ACCD). The current state program, Grants for Relocation Outreach Work (GROW), funds regional organizations rather than individuals. For 2026 and 2027 the Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce is a GROW grantee on both the relocation and retention tracks, following up on people who ask for help through ThinkVermont.com.

How long do I have to get a Vermont license after moving?

60 days, or before your out-of-state license expires if that comes first (Vermont DMV).

How long do I have to register my car in Vermont?

60 days after moving, or before your out-of-state registration expires if sooner. Then the vehicle must be inspected within 15 days of registration.

Does Vermont still pay people to move there?

The individual Worker Relocation Grant is no longer funded. The state's GROW program funds regional organizations, including the Northeast Kingdom Chamber of Commerce, to help people who are relocating.

Do I need a Vermont license to register a car?

Usually yes, but the DMV accepts other documents for part-time residents, students and contract employees. See the DMV's Moving to Vermont page.

Sources

Related pages