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Vermont Hardship License After DUI

Vermont requires 25/50/10 liability coverage and is an at-fault state.

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Vermont at a Glance

25/50/10

Minimum liability limits, in thousands of dollars (per person / per accident / property)

At-fault

The at-fault driver's insurance pays for the damage they cause

Required

PIP and Uninsured motorist coverage must be on every policy

$96

State license reinstatement fee

Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026

Minimum Coverage Requirements in Vermont

Vermont operates under a traditional tort system for auto insurance. The state requires proof of financial responsibility at registration and after any DUI conviction, SR-22 filing is mandatory for 5 years from the conviction date. Unlike many states, Vermont does not offer hardship licenses, occupational licenses, or restricted driving privileges for DUI offenders during the suspension period.

Bodily Injury Liability

Covers injuries you cause to others in an at-fault accident. After a DUI conviction, you must maintain continuous coverage at or above these minimums for the entire 5-year SR-22 filing period or your license will be re-suspended immediately.

Property Damage Liability

Covers damage you cause to others' vehicles and property.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Protects you when an at-fault driver has no insurance. Vermont requires this coverage at the same limits as your liability unless you reject it in writing at policy inception.

SR-22 Certificate of Financial Responsibility

An SR-22 is not insurance but a continuous proof-of-coverage filing submitted by your insurer to the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles. After a DUI conviction, you must maintain SR-22 filing for 5 years from the conviction date. If your policy lapses or cancels for any reason during this period, the DMV receives automatic notice within 24 hours and re-suspends your license immediately with no grace period.

What Drivers Pay in Vermont

$243–$259/mo

Typical monthly rate in Vermont, high-risk drivers after a DUI

Rate data: ValuePenguin and Insurify, 2026

What Affects Your Rate

  • Credit-based insurance scoring is permitted in Vermont, and DUI offenders often see compounding rate increases from both conviction and credit impact.
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Drive Legally on Your Restricted License

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If your license is suspended

Ignition Interlock Device Restricted Drivers License (RDL)

application fee $125.

A coverage lapse is reported

The state can act when your insurance lapses.

Source: state DMV, insurance department and statute records, verified July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a hardship license after a DUI in Vermont?

No. Vermont does not offer hardship licenses, occupational licenses, or any form of restricted driving privilege during a DUI suspension. You must serve the full suspension period — 90 days for a first offense, 18 months for a second offense, permanently for a fourth offense. There is no early reinstatement path, no work permit, and no exception for medical or family hardship.

How long is my license suspended for a DUI in Vermont?

Vermont suspends your license for 90 days on a first DUI conviction, 18 months for a second offense within 10 years, and life for a fourth offense. Second and subsequent offenses also require ignition interlock installation for 1 to 3 years after reinstatement. Refusal of a breath test adds a separate 6-month civil suspension on top of the criminal DUI suspension.

How long do I need SR-22 filing after a DUI in Vermont?

Vermont requires SR-22 filing for 5 years from the date of your DUI conviction, not from the date of reinstatement. If your insurance lapses or cancels at any point during this 5-year period, the Vermont DMV receives automatic electronic notice within 24 hours and re-suspends your license immediately with no warning or grace period.