Green Mountain State Licensing
How to Get Your Vermont Real Estate License
Vermont requires only 40 hours of pre-licensing but enforces some of the nation's strictest environmental land use regulations — Act 250 is essential exam knowledge.
Vermont Real Estate Commission
The Vermont Real Estate Commission under the Office of Professional Regulation administers all real estate licenses. Vermont requires only 40 hours of pre-licensing — one of the lowest in the nation.
The Vermont real estate exam is administered by PSI: 80 national questions and 30 state questions. Both portions require a 75% passing score. Vermont licenses are renewed every two years with 16 hours of CE.
Vermont Fast Facts
Pre-Licensing
Only 40 hours required — one of the shortest in the nation.
Act 250
Vermont's landmark land use law requires environmental permits for most subdivisions and large developments. A critical state exam topic.
Seller Disclosure
Vermont requires a Seller's Property Information Report (SPIR) for residential sales.
Judicial Foreclosure
Vermont uses judicial foreclosure — one of the slower processes in the country.
Vermont State-Specific Topics
Act 250 (Vermont's Land Use and Development Control Act) requires permits for most large-scale development, subdivisions of 10+ lots, and commercial projects over 1 acre. Agents must be aware of Act 250 permit requirements when listing properties intended for development.
Vermont has a Transfer Tax on all real estate transactions: 1.25% for most residential property transfers and 0.5% for buyer-occupied principal residences under a threshold amount.
Vermont uses a mortgage (not a deed of trust) for residential financing. Foreclosure is judicial — the lender must obtain a court judgment before selling the property. This makes foreclosure a relatively slow process.
Vermont Real Estate Exam FAQ
What is Act 250 and when does it apply?
Act 250 requires a state permit before subdividing land into 10 or more lots, constructing more than 10 units of housing, or developing more than 1 acre of commercial space. Agents listing development-potential land must understand these thresholds.
What is the Vermont Transfer Tax?
Vermont imposes a Transfer Tax at closing. The rate is 0.5% for buyer-occupied principal residences (up to a threshold) and 1.25% for other transfers including investment properties and second homes.