The issue date on a Vermont driver's license is labeled ISS and appears on the front of the card. The Department of Motor Vehicles issues licenses valid for 4 years for most adult drivers. Here is where to find ISS and what every field on your Vermont license means.

Where to find the issue date on a Vermont driver's license

On the current Vermont license design, the issue date is labeled ISS and printed on the front of the card. ISS stands for Issue Date and shows when Department of Motor Vehicles issued your current card. Renewing your license resets the ISS date on the new card while your license number stays the same.

Date fields on a Vermont driver's license

• ISS — Issue date. When your current card was printed.
• DOB — Date of birth. Your birthdate for identity and age verification.
• EXP — Expiration date. Vermont driver's licenses are valid for 4 years for most adult drivers.

What does DD mean on a Vermont driver's license?

DD stands for Document Discriminator, a unique serial number for each physical card. It changes every time a new card is issued, even if your license number stays the same. Banks, car rental agencies, and identity systems use the DD to confirm the card has not been altered.

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Restrictions on a Vermont driver's license

The restrictions field on Vermont licenses is labeled RSTR or Restrictions. Common restriction codes:

• A — Corrective lenses required while driving
• B — Daylight driving only
• C — No highway or expressway driving
• E — Automatic transmission only
• F — Outside mirror required on driver's side

Vermont Enhanced Driver's License

Vermont is one of a small number of states that offers an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL). The Vermont EDL works as a passport alternative for land and sea border crossings between the U.S. and Canada, and is also REAL ID compliant for domestic air travel. Vermont shares a border with Quebec, making the EDL useful for residents who cross regularly. Getting an EDL requires in-person document verification at a Vermont DMV location.

Vermont REAL ID

Vermont offers both standard and REAL ID-compliant licenses. A REAL ID Vermont license has a gold star in the upper right corner. From May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another accepted federal document is required for domestic air travel and certain federal facilities. To get a Vermont REAL ID, visit a Vermont license office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and two documents showing your Vermont address.

How to renew a Vermont driver's license

Vermont DMV offers online renewal at dmv.vermont.gov for eligible drivers who do not need a new photo and whose information has not changed. In-person renewal is required for first-time REAL ID, new photos, and CDL transactions.

How to find your original Vermont licensing date

The ISS date on your card shows when your current card was issued, not your original licensing date. To find your original date, request a copy of your Vermont driving record through the Department of Motor Vehicles website or in person at a Vermont license office.