Vermont Military and Veterans Benefits

State Taxes
Education Benefits
Employment Benefits
Unemployment Insurance
Department of Motor Vehicles Benefits
Health Insurance Benefits
Parks and Recreation Benefits
Miscellaneous Benefits
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Facilities in Vermont
Vermont Military Resource Locator
Resources

Summary of Vermont Military and Veterans Benefits: Vermont offers special benefits for Service members, Veterans and their Families including property tax exemptions, state employment preferences, education and tuition assistance, vehicle tags, as well as hunting and fishing license privileges. Eligibility for some benefits may depend on residency, military component and Veteran disability status.

Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Officer: The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs has trained Veteran Service Officers to help Veterans, retired Service members and their Families find and apply for Veterans benefits under federal, state and local laws. For more information or for assistance, please contact the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs.

Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs
118 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05620-4401
Phone: 802-828-3379 / 888-666-9844
Fax: 802-828-5932

Learn more about the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Service Officer

Welcome to Vermont

State Benefit Highlights and Eligibility

What are my Vermont Military and Veterans State Tax Benefits?

Vermont Income Tax Exemptions for Military Pay: Military pay is exempt from Vermont income taxes for resident Service members serving on full-time active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces when they are serving outside of Vermont.

Up to $2,000 of military pay is tax exempt for service in the Vermont National Guard or the U.S. Armed Forces Reserves if the Service member's federal adjusted gross income is less than $50,000.

Funds received through the College Loan Repayment Program if they are included in the federal adjusted gross income are exempt from Vermont income taxes. Vermont Statutes Title 32, Chapter 151, Section 5823

Learn more about Vermont Income Tax Exemptions for Military Pay

Vermont Income Taxes on Military Retired Pay: Vermont resident retired Service members who have an annual gross income of $60,000 or less for single filers, or $75,000 or less for joint filers, receive a tax exemption on the first $10,000 of their military retired pay from Vermont income taxes.

Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) does not withhold taxes for state or local income tax, but it is reported annually on IRS Form 1099-R. All TSP distributions are subject to state taxes and early distributions may incur higher taxes.

Learn more about Vermont Income Taxes on Military Retired Pay

Vermont Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay: Military Disability Retirement Pay received as a pension, annuity or similar allowance for personal injury or sickness resulting from active service in the U.S. Armed Forces should not be included in taxable income. Some of the payments which are considered disability benefits include:

Disability compensation and pension payments for disabilities paid to Veterans or their Families
Grants for homes designed for wheelchair living
Grants for motor vehicles for Veterans who lost their sight or the use of limbs, or
Benefits under a dependent-care assistance program

See IRS Publication 525 for more information.

Learn more about Vermont Taxes on Military Disability Retirement Pay

Vermont Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): DIC is a tax-free young child hugging a tombstone in a veteran cemetery monetary benefit paid to eligible survivors of military Service members who died in the line of duty or eligible survivors of Veterans whose death resulted from a service-connected injury or disease.

Learn more about Vermont Taxes on U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Disability Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

Vermont Taxes on Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP) and Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP) Annuities: A Surviving Spouse who has an annual gross income of $60,000 or less is eligible for a tax exemption on the first $10,000 of their survivor annuity.

Learn more about Taxes on Military Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP)/ Reserve Component Survivor Benefit Plan (RCSBP)/ Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection Plan (RSFPP)

Vermont Property Tax Filing Benefits for U.S. Armed Forces Service Members During Military Conflict: Vermont offers tax filing extensions to the following Service members:

Reserve component Service members ordered to for full-time active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces because of a military conflict in an area designated as a combat zone (duty does not need to be performed within the combat zone), or
Service member serving in an area designated as a combat zone, or
Service member hospitalized due to injuries received during qualified service

Service members meeting the eligibility requirements above are eligible for the following filing benefits:

Income Tax Extension: 180-day extension to file income tax after qualifying service ends.

Penalty and Interest Exemption for Property Tax: 180-day extension to file property tax without penalty, fee or interest. This extension must be approved by the local municipality. Contact the town clerk in the town where the property is located for instructions to request this exemption

Homestead Declaration Abatement: If a resident Service member’s Vermont Homestead Declaration was late or incorrect due to active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces they may qualify for 180-day abatement. The local municipality has the authority to abate all or a portion of the Service member’s property tax. Contact the town clerk where the property is located for instructions to request this abatement

Combat Zone Property Tax Credit and Renter Credit: Qualified Service members are eligible for a 180-day extension to file a Vermont Property Tax Credit or a Vermont Renter Credit. Applicants may file online using their tax software, the myVTax webpage, or they can mail their completed Vermont Homestead Declaration and Property Tax Adjustment Claim, or Vermont Renters Credit Claim, (found in the Vermont Income Tax Booklet, Forms, and Instructions) and documentation of their service. Send the completed form and proof of military service to:

Vermont Department of Taxes
Taxpayer Services Division
Vermont Department of Taxes
P.O. Box 1881
Montpelier, VT 05601-1881

Vermont Town Clerk Directory

Learn more about Vermont Tax Filing Benefits for U.S. Armed Forces Service Members During Military Conflict

Vermont Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans and their Survivors:Vermont offers a property tax exemption to disabled Veterans and their survivors on the first $10,000 of appraised value of their home. Local municipalities may vote to disabled vet in a wheelchair increase this exemption up to $40,000.

The exemption only applies the primary residence that is owned by the Veteran or their survivor. Veterans and survivors who rent their homes are not eligible for this exemption.
Who is eligible for the Vermont Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans and their Survivors? To be eligible applicants must meet one of the following requirements:

Veterans who have a service-connected disability rating from the VA of 50% or higher
Veterans who receive a non-service-connected disability pension from the VA
Veterans who received a permanent medical retirement from the U.S. Armed Forces
Unremarried Surviving Spouses or minor Children of Veterans who were eligible for the exemption at the time of their death

Applicants must submit a completed application and any required documentation (listed on the application to the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs:

Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs
118 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05620-4401
Fax: 802-828-5932
Phone: 888-666-9844 / 802-828-3379

Most Veterans will have to re-file for the exemption yearly before May 1 ^st . Please refer to the application below for a listing of those who only need to apply once.
32 Vermont Statutes, Title 32, Chapter 125, Section 3802(11)
Vermont Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans and their Survivors Application

Learn more about Vermont Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans and their Survivors

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What are my Vermont Military and Veterans Education Benefits?

Vermont National Guard Tuition Benefit Program (VNGTBP): VNGTBP offers interest-free and forgivable loans to Vermont National Guard (VTNG) Service members. Loan forgiveness means that Service members do not have to pay part, or all, of their loan if they meet program requirements. VNGTBP provides loans for the following academic stack of books programs:

First or second bachelor’s degree
Master’s degree
Two certificates per term, four per year

Service members can use the VNGTBP at the following educational institutions:

Vermont State Colleges
University of Vermont (UVM)
Vermont Private Colleges (up to the in-state tuition rate charged by UVM)
Community College of Vermont
Certificate Programs

The award is a loan that covers tuition only. Service members must use all available federal tuition benefits first, then the VNGTBP will cover the remainder of eligible tuition.

Loans are forgiven based on the Service member’s time in service in the VTNG. To be eligible for partial or complete forgiveness of their loan, Service members must:

Complete two years of service in the VTNG for each full-time (12 credits or more) academic year
Service commitment is pro-rated below 12 credit hours
Certificate programs require a six-month service commitment per certificate

Who is eligible for the VNGTBP? To be eligible for this loan Service members must meet the following requirements:

Completed basic training or commissioning and a VTNG Service member in good standing
Attend a Vermont university, college or eligible training institution
Demonstrate satisfactory academic progress
Not in default on a federal education loan

For more information please use the online contact form located at the bottom of the webpage at the “Learn more…” link below, or call 802-338-3378 or 802-338-3170. Vermont Student Assistance Corporation, Assisted Online Scholarship Application.
Vermont State Supported University, College, Post-secondary Institution, or Technical Institute Directory
VTNG Tuition Assistance Fact Sheet

Learn more about the Vermont National Guard Tuition Benefit Program

Vermont Armed Services Scholarship: The Vermont Armed Services Scholarship provides educational assistance to the Families of Service members who were serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and died on active or inactive duty. Scholarships can be used at a Vermont university, college, post-secondary institution, or technical institute leading to a certificate or degree (other than a postgraduate degree).

Armed Services Scholarship may be used for up to 18 credit hours per semester, up to a maximum of 130 credits. Any Pell Grant financial assistance is deducted from the amount the applicant can receive.
Who is eligible for Vermont Armed Services Scholarship? To receive the Vermont Armed Services Scholarship, applicants must be a Child, stepchild, or Surviving Spouse of:

Vermont National Guard Service member who was killed after 1955, or who died after January 1, 2001, while serving on active or inactive duty
Vermont resident, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service member who died after January 1, 2001, while serving on active or inactive duty
Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who died after January 1, 2001, and at the time of death, and was either a:
- Vermont resident
- Nonresident Service member serving in the Vermont National Guard who was mobilized to active duty
- Nonresident U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service member in a Vermont-based unit that was mobilized to active duty

To apply students must complete the Vermont Student Assistance Corporation, Assisted Online Scholarship Application.
Vermont State Supported University, College, Postsecondary Institution, or Technical Institute Directory

Learn more about the Vermont Armed Services Scholarship

Vermont High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans: Vermont offers high school diplomas to wartime Veterans who left high school before receiving their diploma to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces.
Who is eligible for Vermont High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans? Honorably discharged Veterans who left a Vermont high school before graduation to serve during the following wartime periods are eligible:

World War II - December 7, 1941, through December 31, 1946
Korean War Era - June 27, 1950, through January 31, 1955
Vietnam War Era - August 5, 1964, through May 7, 1975, for Veterans serving outside Vietnam; February 28, 1961, through May 7, 1975, for service inside Vietnam

Applicants can choose to receive their diploma from any Vermont public school listed on page two of the application. Completed applications must be mailed to:

Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs
118 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05620-4401

For more information, please contact the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs at 802-828-3379, or 888-666-9844.
Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs, Application for a Diploma for World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War Era Veterans

Learn more about the Vermont High School Diplomas for Wartime Veterans

Vermont Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children (MIC3): The purpose of this compact is to remove barriers to educational success imposed on Children of military Families because of frequent moves and deployment Children sitting on the steps of a school of their parents by:

Facilitating the prompt enrollment of Children of military Families and ensuring that they are not placed at a disadvantage due to difficulty in the transfer of educational records from the previous school district or variations in entrance or age requirements
Facilitating the student placement process through which Children of military Families are not disadvantaged by variations in attendance requirements, scheduling, sequencing, grading, course content or assessment. Facilitating the qualification and eligibility for enrollment, educational programs and participation in extracurricular academic, athletic and social activities
Facilitating the on-time graduation of Children of military Families
Providing for the enforcement of administrative rules implementing the provisions of this compact
Providing for the uniform collection and sharing of information between and among member states, schools and military Families under this compact
Promoting coordination between this compact and other compacts affecting military Children
Promoting flexibility and cooperation between the educational system, parents and the student in order to achieve educational success for the student

MIC3 Assistance Request

Primary Point of Contact
Phone: 802-882-9487

Learn more about the Vermont Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children

Vermont Purple Star Campus Designation for Military-Friendly Schools: The Vermont Purple Star Campus Designation for military-friendly schools recognizes schools that show a major commitment to students and Families connected to the U.S. Armed Forces.

For a school to qualify for the Purple Star Award they must appoint a school liaison who is specially trained to handle the unique challenges experienced by military Families. This liaison will ensure that other teachers at their school are aware of special considerations that students from military Families can benefit from. Each designated school will also have a dedicated page on their school website featuring resources for military Families.
Military Child Education Coalition Purple Star School Program

Learn more about the Vermont Purple Star Campus Designation for Military-Friendly Schools

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What are my Vermont Military and Veterans Employment Benefits?

Vermont Employees Authorized Leave for Military Training: Vermont Service members serving in a reserve component of the U.S. Hiking in the snow covered mountains Armed Forces are authorized a leave of absence from their job for15 days in any calendar year for military drill, training, or other temporary duty under military authority.

This leave can be with or without pay at the discretion of the employer. When the Service member returns to their civilian employment they must be returned to their previous position with the same status, pay, and seniority, including seniority that accrued during their absence.

Learn more about Vermont Employees Authorized Leave for Military Training

Vermont State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference:Vermont offers Veterans preference when hiring for state employment. Preference is given by adding points to the scores of eligible applicants.

In addition, those eligible for Veterans preference can apply for jobs that are normally only available to current State employees. Those eligible for preference may also apply and compete for vacant positions that are recruited as "State Promotional Only".
Who is eligible for Vermont State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference? The following individuals are eligible for preference:

U.S. Armed Forces Veteran who served at least 90 days on active duty and received an honorable discharge
Veterans who have a service-connected disability
Spouse of a Veteran who has a total service-connected disability
Unremarried Surviving Spouse of a Veteran

Applicants may view all job postings at the Vermont Department of Human resources Careers webpage.

For questions and information, please call the Vermont Recruitment Services Division 855-828-6700, option 1, then option 4, or email DHR.General@vermont.gov.
Vermont Statutes, Title 20, Chapter 83, Section 1543

Learn more about Vermont State Employment Veterans Hiring Preference

Vermont Veterans Employment Assistance: The Vermont Department of Labor has trained staff at their Job Centers to help Veterans find work, identifying job training needs and by providing funds for training.

Some of the services provided includes:

Job search assistance
One-on-one career counseling
Resume writing, interview skills and other career workshops
Connection to training and educational opportunities, including apprenticeships
Partner services specifically for Veterans

Vermont Department of Labor Veterans Services Webpage

The Vermont Department of Labor also has Disabled Veterans Outreach Program Representatives who help disabled Veterans and Veterans with barriers to employment find suitable employment. For more information Veterans should contact their nearest Vermont Job Center.
Vermont Job Centers Directory

Learn more about the Vermont Veterans Employment Assistance

Federal Employment Veteran's Hiring Preferences: By Federal law, Veterans who are disabled or who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces during certain specified time periods or in military campaigns are entitled to preference over non- group of soldiers standing in formation Veterans in hiring into the Federal civil service and in retention during reduction in force. Veterans may be entitled to 5 or 10 points included in any scoring process for examination or interviews.

5-point Hiring Preference: Five points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served:

During a war, or
During the period April 28, 1952, through July 1, 1955, or
For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred after January 31, 1955, and before October 15, 1976, or
During the Gulf War from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, or
For more than 180 consecutive days, other than for training, any part of which occurred during the period beginning September 11, 2001, and ending on August 31, 2010, the last day of Operation Iraqi Freedom, or
In a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized. Any Armed Forces Expeditionary medal or campaign badge, including El Salvador, Lebanon, Grenada, Panama, Southwest Asia, Somalia, and Haiti, qualifies for preference

10-point Compensable Disability (CP) Preference: Ten points are added to the examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of at least 10% but less than 30% .

10-Point 30% Compensable Disability Preference (CPS): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of a Veteran who served at any time and who has a compensable service-connected disability rating of 30% or more.

10-Point Disability Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of:

A Veteran who served at any time and has a present service-connected disability or is receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension from the military or the VA but does not qualify as a CP or CPS, or
Veterans who received a Purple Heart

10-Point Derived Preference (XP): Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of Spouses, Surviving Spouses, or mothers of Veterans. Both a mother and a Spouse (including Surviving Spouse) may be entitled to preference based on the same Veteran's service if they both meet the requirements. However, neither may receive preference if the Veteran is living and is qualified for Federal employment.

Ten points are added to the passing examination score or rating of the Spouse of a disabled Veteran who is disqualified for a federal position along the general lines of their usual occupation because of a service-connected disability. Such a disqualification may be presumed when the Veteran is unemployed and:

Is rated by appropriate military or VA authorities to be 100% disabled and/or unemployable, or
Has retired, been separated, or resigned from a civil service position because of a disability that is service-connected in origin, or
Has attempted to obtain a civil service position or other position along the lines of their usual occupation and has failed to qualify because of a service-connected disability

Preference may be allowed in other circumstances but anything less than the above warrants a more careful analysis.

A campaign medal holder or Gulf War Veteran who originally enlisted after September 7, 1980, (or began active duty on or after October 14, 1982, and has not previously completed 24 months of continuous active duty) must have served continuously for 24 months or the full period called or ordered to active duty. The 24-month service requirement does not apply to 10-point preference eligible Veterans separated for disability incurred or aggravated in the line of duty, or to Veterans separated for hardship or other reasons under Title 10 U.S.C. 1171 or 1173.

Learn more about Federal Employment Veteran's Hiring Preferences

Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA): USERRA protects civilian job rights and benefits for Veterans and members of reserve components. USERRA also protects Service member rights and benefits by clarifying the law, improving enforcement mechanisms, and adding Federal Government employees to those employees already eligible to receive Department of Labor assistance in processing claims.

Absence from Work for Military Duty: USERRA establishes the cumulative length of time that an individual may be absent from Soldiers at the shooting range work for military duty and retain reemployment rights to five years. Exceptions to the five-year limit, include initial enlistments lasting more than five years, periodic National Guard and U.S. Armed Forces Reserve training duty, and involuntary active duty extensions and recalls, especially during a time of national emergency. USERRA establishes that reemployment protection does not depend on the timing, frequency, duration, or nature of an individual's service if the basic eligibility criteria are met.

Disability Accommodation: USERRA provides protection for disabled Veterans, requiring employers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate the disability. Service members recovering from injuries received during service or training may have up to two years from the date of completion of service to return to their jobs or apply for reemployment.

Return to Work without Loss of Seniority: USERRA provides that returning Service members are reemployed in the job that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority. USERRA also requires that reasonable efforts (such as training or retraining) be made to enable returning Service members to refresh or upgrade their skills to help them qualify for reemployment. USERRA also provides that while an individual is performing military service, they are deemed to be on a furlough or leave of absence and are entitled to the non-seniority rights accorded other individuals on non-military leaves of absence.

Extension of Health and Pension Plans: Health and pension plan coverage for Service members is provided for by USERRA. Individuals performing military duty of more than 30 days may elect to continue employer sponsored health care for up to 24 months; however, they may be required to pay up to102% of the full premium. For military service of less than 31 days, health care coverage is provided as if the Service member had remained employed. USERRA clarifies pension plan coverage by making explicit that all pension plans are protected.
Who is eligible for USERRA Benefits? Veterans, U.S. Armed Forces Reserve or National Guard Service members who leave a position for training or active military service are eligible.

The Department of Labor, through the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS) assists all who have claims under USERRA, including Federal and Postal Service employees.
employees.
VETS Regional Office Locations

Learn more about Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act

Vermont Hilton Honors Military Program: The Vermont Hilton Honors Military Program helps make the career transition from service in the U.S. Armed Forces to civilian employment easier for current and former Service members. The Hilton Honors Military Program will provide hotel accommodations for required travel while they are looking for a new job, training for a new job, or finding housing. Those eligible can receive up to a total of 100,000 hotel points for verifiable employment-related activities. Recipients must have a Hilton Honors account to receive the points. For more information, please call 802-828-4356, email HiltonHonors@naswa.org or contact the nearest American Job Center.
National Association of State Workforce Agencies, Hilton Honors Military Program Fact Sheet

Learn more about the Vermont Hilton Honors Military Program

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What are my Vermont Military and Veterans Unemployment Insurance Benefits?

Vermont Unemployment Insurance (UI): The Vermont Department of Labor administers UI benefits that provide temporary financial assistance for workers who are unemployed through no fault of their own. UI is a partial, short-term replacement of lost wages while workers are seeking other work and is not intended to be a permanent source of income. Benefits are not based on financial need. Employers pay all costs of the UI program.

Applicants will need the following information to file a UI claim:

Social Security number
Mailing and home addresses
Email address
Telephone number
Alien registration number (if not a U.S. citizen)
Amount and duration of any separation pay received (vacation pay, severance pay, etc.)
Return to work date (if the applicant expects to be recalled to work)
Valid Driver’s License number (or state issued ID number, if applicable)
Banking information for direct deposit
DD214, Member 4 Copy (if a Service member in the U.S. Armed Forces in the last 18 months)
Form SF8 (if a former federal government employee in the last 18 months)

Applicants will need the following previous employer information (for the last 18 months):

Complete name and address of each employer (including zip code)
Payroll address (if different from employer address)
Telephone number (including area code)
Beginning and ending dates of employment
Reason for separation

To file an initial claim applicants must call 877-214-3330.
Vermont UI Initial Application Information
Vermont UI Claimant Handbook

Learn more about the Vermont Unemployment Insurance

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What are my Vermont Military and Veterans Department of Motor Vehicles Benefits?

Vermont ”Veteran” Designation on Driver’s Licenses and Identification (ID) Cards: Veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and received a discharge other than dishonorable are eligible for a “Veteran” designation on their Vermont Driver’s License or ID card. Vermont drivers license with veteran designation

Veterans are required to request certification of their eligibility through the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs by submitting a Vermont Certificate of Veteran Status (submission instructions and documentation requirements are on the form). Afterreceiving certification Veterans can apply at a Vermont Motor Vehicle Office.
Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, Application for License/Permit
Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles, Application for Non-Driver ID
Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles Office Directory

Learn more about the Vermont "Veteran" Designation on Driver’s Licenses and ID Cards

Vermont Commercial Driver License (CDL) Military Test Waiver: Vermont offers a CDL skills test waiver to Service members and former Service members based on their military training and experience. Eligible Service members and recently separated Veterans who operated a military vehicle equivalent to a commercial motor vehicle.
Vermont Statutes, Title 23, Chapter 39, Section 4108
Who is eligible for the Vermont CDL Military Test Waiver? To be eligible applicants must be currently licensed or served in the last year in a position that required the operation of a military vehicle equivalent to a commercial motor vehicle.

Applicants must also meet the following requirements:

Not had more than one license (except for a military license) in the past two years
Not had any license suspended, revoked, or cancelled in the past two years
Not had any convictions for any type of motor vehicle for the disqualifying major offenses (listed in Code of Federal Regulation, 385.51(b))
Not had more than one conviction for any type of motor vehicle for serious traffic violations (listed in Code of Federal Regulation, 385.51(c))
Not had any conviction for a violation of military, state or local laws relating to motor vehicle traffic control (other than a parking violation) as a result of a traffic accident and has no record of an accident in which they were at fault

To apply for the Military Skills Test Waiver applicants must complete the Vermont Military Test Waiver Application (including their commanders endorsement) and submit it to their local Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles office.
Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles Office Directory

Learn more about the Vermont Commercial Driver License Military Test Waiver

Vermont Driver's License Extension for Service Members on Active Duty and their Family Members: Resident Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces and their immediate Family members are authorized an extension of their driver's license expiration date for up to four years after their license would normally expire.

Those eligible for the extension must carry their expired Vermont driver’s license, their military ID card and the Vermont Armed Forces Extension Letter/Card.

Extended licenses must be renewed within 30 days after the Service member’s discharge date. Vermont Statutes, Title 23, Chapter 9, Section 616

Learn more about the Vermont Driver's License Extension for Service Members on Active Duty and their Family Members

Waiver of Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles Fees for Eligible Disabled Veterans: Veterans who have had vehicle modifications made to their vehicle to accommodate their disability that were paid for by the VA are exempt from vehicle sales tax, registration and licensing fees for their specially adapted vehicle.

In addition, Veterans who receive a specially adapted vehicle from the VA are exempt from driver’s licensing fees.

Learn more about the Waiver of Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles Fees for Eligible Disabled Veterans

Vermont Certified Inspection Mechanic Examination Waiver for Service Members and Veterans: Service members and Veterans who were wheeled vehicle mechanics when they served in the U.S. Armed Forces can receive an examination waiver to become a Vermont Certified Inspection Mechanic.

Applicants must have received the following Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifications while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces to be eligible:

Diesel Mechanic
Light Truck Engine Repair
Automobile Service Consultant
Certified Hazardous Material Manager
Associate Safety Professional

To apply for the waiver please use the online application at the bottom of the page at the "Learn more…" link below.

Learn more about the Vermont Certified Inspection Mechanic Examination Waiver for Service Members and Veterans

Vermont Military License Plates: The Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers 11 military and Veteran related license plates and six combat theater license plates to honor the service and sacrifice of Service members, Veterans, retired Service members and eligible Family members.

All applicants must provide documentation of eligibility for the specific license plate and a completed Vermont Certificate of Veteran Status to the Vermont Office of Veterans' Affairs for certification. Applicants should submit their completed form, copy of the Veteran’s DD214 that indicates their Character of Service (military ID card for active duty Service members) and any other eligibility documentation to:

Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs
118 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05620-4401
Phone: 802-828-3379 / 888-666-9844
Fax: 802-828-5932

After receiving certification applicants can apply for license plates at any Vermont DMV Office. All military license plates will only be reissued to the original plate holder or their unremarried Surviving Spouse.

These license plates can be used on vehicles registered at the pleasure car rate and trucks registered for less than 26,001 lbs. None of these license plates can be personalized. A short description of some of these license plates is listed below. Vermont Purple Heart plate

Vermont Purple Heart License Plate: Service members and Veterans who received the Purple Heart are eligible for Vermont Purple Heart license plate.

Vermont Disabled Veteran Plate: VT Disabled Veterans License Plate Disabled Veterans are eligible for the Vermont Disabled Veteran license plate. Applicants must provide documents required above as well as a completed Vermont DMV, Universal Medical Evaluation/Progress Report.

Vermont US Veteran Plate Vermont U.S. Veteran License Plate: Honorably discharged Veterans and currently serving active duty Service members are eligible for the Vermont U.S. Veteran license plate.

Vermont Gold Star License Plate: Immediate Family members of a Service member killed during war, military conflict, international terrorist attack, or military operations are eligible for the Vermont Gold Star Family license plate. Immediate Family members are defined as:

Surviving Spouse
Parents, stepparents, parents through adoption, foster parents in loco parentis
Child, stepchild, adopted Child
Sibling, half-sibling

Applicants must provide documents required above as well as proof of their Family relation to the deceased Service member, DD1300 Report of Casualty and a completed Vermont DMV Gold Star Family Plate Application.

Learn more about Vermont Military License Plates

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What are my Vermont Military and Veterans Health and Insurance Benefits?

Vermont National Guard Service Members Covered by Workers Compensation for Injury, Illness or Death While on State Active Duty: Vermont National Guard Service members serving on state active duty are eligible for medical coverage and compensation for injury, illness, disability, or death under Vermont Workers Compensation Laws.

Learn more about Vermont National Guard Service Members Covered by Workers Compensation for Injury, Illness or Death While on State Active Duty

Vermont National Guard State Active Duty Death Benefit: Vermont offers a $50,000 death benefit to the beneficiaries of a Vermont National Guard Service member who is killed while serving on state active duty, or as a result of injuries they received while mobilized. The death or injuries that resulted in death must have been in the line of duty.

Learn more about Vermont National Guard State Active Duty Death Benefits

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance: The VA provides valuable life insurance benefits to Veterans, active and reserve component Service members and their Families to provide financial security given the extraordinary risks involved in military Service. The VA provides the following life insurance benefit programs:

Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI)
Veterans’ Group Life Insurance (VGLI)
Family Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (FSGLI)
Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Traumatic Injury Protection Program (TSGLI)
Service-Disabled Veterans’ Life Insurance (S-DVI)
Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance (VMLI)

Learn more about U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Life Insurance

TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance: TRICARE Reserve Select is a premium-based plan, available worldwide for Selected Reserve (U.S. Armed Forces Reserve and National Guard Service members) and their Families who meet the following qualifications:

Not on active duty orders
Not covered under the Transitional Assistance Management Program
Not eligible for or enrolled in the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program or currently covered under FEHB, either under their own eligibility or through a Family member

The plan provides comprehensive health care coverage when a Service member is not activated and covered by active duty TRICARE benefits.

Learn more about TRICARE Reserve Select Health Insurance

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What are my Vermont Military and Veterans Parks and Recreation Benefits?

Vermont Free Disabled Veteran, Fishing, Hunting or Combination Licenses: Vermont offers free hunting, fishing, or combination licenses to eligible disabled Veterans. Disabled Vet fishing
Who is eligible for Vermont Free Disabled Veteran, Fishing, Hunting or Combination Licenses? Vermont residentVeterans who have ever had a service-connected VA disability rating of 60% or greater are eligible for a free permanent fishing, hunting or combination license.

Veterans who are residents of Maine or New Hampshire who have ever had service-connected VA disability rating of 60% or greater are eligible for a free one-year reciprocal Vermont fishing, hunting or combination license.

Veterans applying for a hunting or combination license must meet Vermont Hunting License Requirements. These licenses require specific documentation and are only processed at the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department main office in Montpelier. Veterans can bring their required documentation to the closest district office for submission. Please call the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, Licensing Unit at 802-828-1190 for documentation requirements.
Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, District Office Directory
Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, Veteran Free License Privilege Letter and Application
Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department Frequently asked Questions

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Vermont Active Duty and Reserve Component Service Member Hunting, Fishing and Combination License Benefits: Resident Service members who are serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces or reserve component Service members who mountains in the fog are activated for homeland defense or a state-side contingency operation for 120 or more consecutive days are eligible for a free one-year year fishing, hunting or combination license.

Nonresident Service members serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces who are stationed in Vermont can purchase hunting and fishing or combination licenses for resident prices.

Service members applying for a hunting or combination license must meet Vermont Hunting License Requirements.

Military licenses are available from the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department main office in Montpelier, online at the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, license webpage, and through Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department license agents. For more information, please contact the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department at:

Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department
ATTN: Licensing Dewey Building
1 National Life Drive
Montpelier, VT 05620-3208
Phone: 802-828-1190
Email: fwinformation@vermont.gov

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Vermont Green Mountain Passport Lifetime Pass for Resident Veterans: Vermont resident Veterans who received an honorable discharge are eligible for a $2 lifetime Green Mountain Passport. The passport authorizes free day entry at Vermont State Parks, historic sites and fully state sponsored events. Green Mountain Passports are only available from local town clerk offices.
Vermont Town Clerk Directory

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What are my Vermont Military and Veterans Miscellaneous Benefits?

Vermont's Medals for Veterans: Vermont offers three medals that recognize the service and sacrifice of Service members and their Families.

Vermont Medals for Veterans Vermont Veterans Medal: The Vermont Veterans Medal is awarded to Veterans who received an honorable discharge. Veterans must be a current resident, resident at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, Vermont National Guard Service member, or a U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service member in a unit in Vermont.

Vermont Distinguished Service Medal: The Vermont Distinguished Service Medal is awarded to Veterans who served in a combat theater and received an honorable discharge. Veterans must be a current resident, resident at the time of entry into the U.S. Armed Forces, Vermont National Guard Service member or a U.S. Armed Forces Reserve Service member in a unit in Vermont that is called to active duty.

Vermont Patriots Medal: The Vermont Patriots Medal is presented to the next-of-kin of a Vermont Service member who was killed in action.

The Veterans Medal and Distinguished Service Medal may be awarded posthumously.

To request the Veterans Medal and Distinguished Service Medal, the Veteran or someone on their behalf must complete the Vermont State Veterans Medal and Distinguished Service Medal Application.

Completed Applications can be mailed to:

Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs
118 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05620-4401

Applicants can choose to receive the medals in the mail, or at an annual medal presentation ceremony by the Governor at the Vermont State House. For more information, please call 888-666-9844 or 802-828-3379.

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Vermont Veterans Assistance Fund: The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs administers the Vermont Veteran Assistance Fund. This program can provide a one-time payment to Vermont Veterans or their Families who are in a financial crisis and need help paying for a critical need, such as housing and utilities. The amount of assistance provided can be up to $500.
Who is eligible for the Vermont Veterans Assistance Fund? Vermont resident Veterans and their Families are eligible for assistance. Please call the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs at 888-666-9844 or 802-828-3379 to apply.

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Vermont Veterans Discharge Records Stored with the Office of Veterans Affairs: The Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs maintains copies of discharge records for most Veterans who entered the U.S. Armed Forces from Vermont. Veterans can apply for their records to assist them with benefit claims for federal and state benefits.

When requesting records include the following information:

Full name (including full middle name)
Social Security number
Date of birth
Approximate dates of service
Address to mail records to
Simple statement saying... "Please send me my DD214"

To request records please call 888-666-9844, or 802-828-3379 (between 7:30 am and 4:00 pm), or by sending a written request to:

Office of Veterans Affairs
118 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05620-4401
Fax: 802-828-5932

Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs, Application for Release of Military Records Maintained at the State Veterans Affairs Office

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Vermont Veterans’ Home: The Vermont Veterans’ Home located in Bennington, Vermont provides rehabilitation and long term care for Veterans and their eligible Family members. Vermont Veterans Home

The Vermont Veterans’ Home is a licensed, residential, healthcare facility with an extensively trained staff who provides a wide range of services.

These services include:

Short and long-term skilled nursing care
Post-operative wound care
Physical, speech, rehabilitation and occupational therapies
Certified Alzheimer's and Dementia unit
Medical social work
Respite care
Dietary services
Podiatry care
Dental Services
Palliative care
Transportation service
Family guest room

Who is eligible for care at the Vermont Veterans’ Home? To be eligible for care at the Vermont Veterans’ Home, Veterans must have served at least 90 days in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge. Gold Star parents, Spouse or Surviving Spouse of an eligible Veteran are also eligible for admission. Vermont residency is not a requirement, but Vermont residents will have priority for admission.

The Vermont Veterans’ Home accepts private payment, Medicare and Vermont Medicaid. The VA will pay for Veterans who have a 70% or greater service-connected disability rating.

For more information, please contact the Vermont Veterans’ Home Admission Department at 802-447-6539, or by email at VVh-admissions@vermont.gov.

Vermont Veterans’ Home
325 North Street
Bennington, VT 05201

Vermont Veterans’ Home Application for Admission
Vermont Veterans’ Home Frequently Asked Questions

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Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery (VVMC): The VVMC located in Randolph Center offers a dignified final resting place for Veterans, their Spouses, and eligible Children.

The cemetery provides perpetual care for all grave plots and headstones and has a non-denominational chapel as well as a memorial garden. VVMC also has a commercial monument section where Veterans have the option of using privately purchased commercial headstones in place of the government provided markers.

There is no cost for the Veteran to be buried in the government issued marker sections of the cemetery. There is an opening and closing fee for the burial of a Spouse or Child.
Who is eligible for Burial at the VVMC? Eligibility requirements for the burial at VVMC are the same as for VA National Cemeteries. Exact eligibility requirements can viewed at the VA National Cemetery Administration Eligibility webpage. The following are the general eligibility requirements:

Discharged from active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces under conditions other than dishonorable, or
Died while serving on active duty, or
Served at least 20 years in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces Reserves and is eligible for military retired pay (or would have been eligible except their death occurred before age 60), or
Reserve component Service members if they were activated for federal service, (active duty for training does not qualify)
Spouses and dependents (burial of dependent Children is limited to unmarried Children under 21 years old or 23 years old if a full-time student at an approved educational institution or a Child who develops a lifelong disability prior to age 21)

All Veterans are encouraged to complete the VVMC Application - Eligibility to establish eligibility prior to need. Applications are made through the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs. For questions and more information please call the Vermont Office of Veterans Affairs at 888-666-9844 or 802-828-3379.

Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery
487 Furnace Road
Randolf Center, VT 05061
Fax: 802-828-5932

VVMC Fact Sheet

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Vermont Military Funeral Honors: The Vermont National Guard has an Honor Guard team that performs Military Funeral Honors during funeral services for Veterans. During Military Funeral Honors the honor guard will perform a gun salute, flag folding ceremony, present the flag to the next of kin, and play Taps. To contact the Vermont National Guard Honor Guard Detail please call 802-338-3490.

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Vermont Burial Assistance for Low Income Veterans:Low income Veterans are guaranteed a proper burial paid for by Vermont. For more information, contact the Economic Services Division at 800-479-6151.

Families of low income Veterans are encouraged consider the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery because of its quality and low cost.

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U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Vermont

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Facilities in Vermont: The VA has numerous resources available for Veterans and Family members. Please see the local location listing for your nearest facility.

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Vermont VA Cemetery U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Cemeteries in Vermont: The VA National Cemetery Administration maintains two national cemeteries in Vermont. Please see the local location listing for the nearest cemetery.