Vermont DMV Permit Photo: Biometric Rules, Glasses Off

Yes, you take a photo for your Vermont learner's permit. When DMV requires a new photo for your permit transaction, follow the photo instructions it gives you. This image is printed on your plastic permit card and stored in the state's biometric database. Understanding the full Vermont DMV photo biometric federal standards process helps you avoid delays and wasted trips.

When and How Is the Vermont DMV Permit Photo Taken?

The photo session happens when Vermont DMV requires the photo step for the permit transaction. Be ready to follow the instructions given for your application.

• Complete the required permit application and testing steps.
• Pay the permit fee when directed.
• Complete the digital photo capture.
• Use the temporary learner's permit or receipt provided by DMV; the temporary learner permit is valid for 90 days.
• Your permanent learner-permit card with the photo is mailed after central issuance.

See Permit Cost & Fees for the current exam and permit charges.

Vermont DMV's Photo Rules for the Learner's Permit

Vermont follows strict federal biometric standards for your learner's permit photo, violate any one of them and the photo gets retaken, adding time to your appointment.

• Expression: Maintain a neutral face. No smiling or frowning.
• Glasses: Remove them. Glare or frames block the digital biometric scan.
• Headwear: Not allowed except for un-obscuring religious garments.
• Hair: Must not cover your eyebrows or eyes. Sweep bangs aside before the photo.
• Position: Face the camera directly with your head level.

In Montpelier, a teen's permit application was delayed because her glasses created a glare. She had to remove them for a retake, but the initial error added 20 minutes to her DMV visit.

At the Rutland DMV, an applicant's photo was rejected because his white t-shirt blended with the light backdrop. He had to retake it wearing a darker shirt to satisfy the contrast rules.

Retaking Your Vermont DMV Permit Photo

Vermont DMV retakes photos for technical errors only, blinking, poor lighting, blurry image. Disliking how you look is not grounds for a free retake.

If you later want a new photo because you don't like how you look, you must accept the printed card first. Then apply for a duplicate permit and pay a $24.00 replacement fee. This requires a separate DMV visit and is not done at your original appointment.

Check your reflection in a window or phone screen at the DMV to avoid last-minute issues like messy hair or a wrinkled collar that could leave you stuck with a photo you hate for years.

Vermont's NO EXACT CHANGE issue applies here too. At the Burlington DMV, one applicant brought exact cash for the $24 fee, one bill was flagged as counterfeit by the machine. Sent home; returned the next morning with bank-verified bills. Use bills from a bank ATM for Vermont DMV payments to avoid this delay on photo day.

Getting a New Photo on Your Vermont Learner's Permit Before Renewal

Yes. Vermont DMV says you may get a new photo at any time for a fee. Complete the required documents and schedule an office appointment for the new photo.

How Often Does Vermont DMV Require a New Permit or License Photo?

Vermont DMV requires a new picture at least once every other renewal. You can request a new photo sooner if you want one, but the normal fee and appointment requirements still apply.

How Does the Vermont DMV Photo Carry Over to Your License?

The photo taken at your permit appointment prints directly onto your plastic learner's permit card, and typically carries over to your Junior Driver's License unless you request and pay for a new one during the upgrade.

Consider this photo semi-permanent for 2-4 years, depending on how long your permit remains valid before you upgrade.

A driver in Burlington was unhappy with her permit photo but didn't request a new one during her road test upgrade. She was issued a Junior License with the same image and would now need to pay $24 for a replacement card.

What Should You Wear for Your Vermont DMV Permit Photo?

• Avoid white tops; they blend with light backdrops.
• Wear solid colors or simple patterns.
• Ensure your hair is clear of your eyes and eyebrows.
• Do not wear clothing with slogans or offensive imagery.

Bring a dark-colored, plain shirt to change into at the DMV to avoid contrast problems or being turned away for an inappropriate logo, which would force a reschedule.

Where Can You Get the Vermont Learner's Permit Application Form?

Use Vermont DMV's current VL-021 License/Permit Application for the learner-permit application when that form is required for your transaction.

For help completing VL-021 and preparing identity or residency proof, see Application Form and Required Documents in the Eligibility & Documents guide.