Where the Burlington DMV is located and what it handles
Burlington has one DMV office serving the city and surrounding areas. The office is located at 133 Cherry Street, Burlington, Vermont 05401. This is a full-service DMV location, meaning you can handle driver's license renewals, new license applications, vehicle registration, title transfers, and address changes in person.
The Cherry Street office is the primary DMV point of contact for Burlington residents. Vermont's DMV system is centralized under the Department of Motor Vehicles, which operates all state offices. If you cannot reach the Burlington location or need to know whether a specific service is available that day, you can call ahead at (802) 828-2000 to confirm hours and current wait times.
Key Takeaways
- The Burlington DMV is at 133 Cherry Street and handles driver's licenses, vehicle registration, title work, and address changes in person.
- Vermont DMV offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations offering limited Saturday hours — call ahead to confirm the Burlington office schedule.
- Many services, including address changes and license renewals, can be completed online or by mail without visiting the office.
- Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and any documents related to your specific transaction to avoid return trips.
- Wait times vary by day and time of day; early morning visits typically have shorter lines than midday or late afternoon.
Hours of operation and when to visit
The Burlington DMV operates during standard business hours, Monday through Friday. Exact opening and closing times change seasonally and may shift based on staffing, so calling (802) 828-2000 before you go is the safest approach. Vermont DMV offices do not typically operate on weekends, though some regional locations offer limited Saturday service — the Burlington office does not.
Wait times are shortest early in the morning, typically within the first hour after opening. Mid-morning and early afternoon tend to be busier. If you have flexibility in your schedule, arriving right when the office opens gives you the best chance of being seen quickly. Avoid the last hour before closing, when staff may be processing final transactions and new arrivals may not be taken.
Services you can complete online or by mail instead
Vermont allows you to handle several common transactions without visiting the office. Address changes can be reported online through the Vermont DMV website or by mail using Form DL-43. Driver's license renewals are available by mail if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions. Vehicle registration renewals can also be completed online or by mail.
Using online or mail options saves you a trip and often processes faster than in-person visits. However, if you need a new license photo, are explore for your first license, or have a suspension or restriction on your record, you must visit the office in person. Check the Vermont DMV website to confirm which route works for your specific situation before making the trip to Cherry Street.
What documents to bring for common transactions
For a driver's license renewal or address change, bring your current Vermont driver's license or ID card, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you are renewing after expiration, bring the same documents plus proof of Vermont residency.
For vehicle registration or title work, bring your current registration, proof of ownership (title or bill of sale), proof of insurance, and proof of residency. If someone else is signing on your behalf, bring a notarized power of attorney. For a new driver's license, bring your birth certificate or passport, Social Security card, two proofs of residency, and any documents showing name changes (marriage certificate, divorce decree). Bringing everything the first time prevents multiple trips.
Vehicle registration and title services at Burlington
The Burlington DMV handles all vehicle title and registration work. You can register a new vehicle, renew an existing registration, transfer a title between owners, or correct information on an existing title at this location. Vermont requires proof of insurance before you can register a vehicle, so have your insurance card or policy number ready.
Registration renewals can be completed online or by mail if you have no changes to report. However, title transfers, new registrations, and corrections must be done in person or by mail with notarized documents. If you are buying a used vehicle in Vermont, you have 30 days to transfer the title into your name. Waiting until the last day means longer lines, so plan ahead.
Address changes and how to report them
An address change on your driver's license or vehicle registration can be reported online, by mail, or in person at the Burlington office. The online method is fastest — you can update your license address through the Vermont DMV website without visiting the office. By mail, send Form DL-43 (for driver's license) or a written request with your registration renewal (for vehicle registration) to the DMV.
If you change your address and do not update your license or registration, Vermont law requires you to notify the DMV within 30 days. Failing to do so can result in a fine. If you are moving out of state, you do not need to update your Vermont license before you leave, but you should update it once you have established residency in your new state.
Parking and accessibility at the Cherry Street location
The Burlington DMV office on Cherry Street has street parking and a nearby municipal lot. The building is accessible to people with mobility limitations, with an elevator and accessible restrooms. If you have a disability and need accommodation during your visit, call ahead at (802) 828-2000 to let staff know what you need.
The office is located in downtown Burlington, close to public transportation. If you are using the bus, check the local transit website for routes that serve the Cherry Street area. Parking can be tight during peak hours, so arriving early gives you a better chance of finding a spot nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license without going to the Burlington office?
Yes, if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions or suspensions. You can renew by mail or online through the Vermont DMV website. If your license is expired or you have restrictions, you must visit the office in person for a new photo and to complete the renewal in front of staff.
How long does a title transfer take at the Burlington DMV?
Processing time varies, but title transfers typically take 10 to 15 business days after you submit all required documents. If you submit by mail, add time for postal delivery. If you need the title quickly, ask the staff at the Burlington office whether expedited processing is available and what it costs.
What if I lost my registration and need a replacement?
You can request a duplicate registration by mail or in person at the Burlington office. Bring your driver's license, proof of residency, and your vehicle identification number (VIN). By mail, send a written request with a copy of your driver's license to the Vermont DMV. Processing takes 5 to 10 business days.
Do I need an appointment to visit the Burlington DMV?
Vermont DMV offices do not require appointments. You can walk in during business hours and wait to be called. However, call (802) 828-2000 before you go to confirm the office is open and to get a sense of current wait times, especially if you are visiting during a busy time of day.
Can I register a vehicle online in Vermont?
You can renew an existing registration online if there are no changes to report. New registrations, title transfers, and registrations with changes must be done in person at the Burlington office or by mail with notarized documents. Check the Vermont DMV website to see which option fits your situation.