What Delaware requires to issue a driver license to immigrants

Delaware issues driver licenses to immigrants regardless of immigration status. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residency. What you do need is proof of identity, proof of Delaware residency, and a valid Social Security Number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

The state does not ask about immigration status during the process process. Delaware's approach is straightforward: if you can prove who you are, where you live in Delaware, and provide a tax identification number, you can get a license. This is the same requirement that applies to all Delaware residents, regardless of how they came to the state.

Your license will be a standard Delaware driver license with no marking that indicates immigration status. It works the same way as any other license for driving, identification at banks or other institutions, and other everyday purposes.

Key Takeaways

  • Delaware issues driver licenses to immigrants with or without permanent residency, as long as you have proof of identity, Delaware residency, and a tax ID number.
  • You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security Number if you do not have one.
  • Acceptable identity documents include a passport, national ID card, or consular document from your country of origin.
  • You must pass the written knowledge test and road test, just as any new driver does, regardless of immigration status.
  • Your Delaware license does not indicate immigration status and functions identically to licenses issued to U.S. citizens.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your original or certified copy of a document that proves your identity. Delaware accepts a valid passport, a national ID card from your country of origin, a consular ID card issued by your country's embassy or consulate, or a birth certificate paired with another form of ID. The document must not be expired, though some documents can be expired by up to five years and still be accepted—ask the DMV when you call to confirm your specific document.

You also need proof that you live in Delaware. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current Delaware address works. The document should be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have one of these, a letter from your landlord or a government agency can substitute, though it must include your name and address.

Bring your Social Security Number or ITIN. If you have a Social Security Number, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it. If you have an ITIN instead, bring your most recent tax return or an IRS letter that shows your ITIN. You do not need to bring the physical ITIN card if you have other proof.

You will also need to complete the Delaware Driver License process (Form DL-44). You can fill this out at home before you go or complete it at the DMV office. Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one, though it is not required.

How to get an ITIN if you do not have a Social Security Number

An ITIN is a nine-digit tax identification number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to people who are not may be able to access for a Social Security Number but need to file taxes or conduct other business with the IRS. Many immigrants use an ITIN to file taxes, and Delaware accepts it in place of a Social Security Number for a driver license.

To get an ITIN, you file Form W-7 with the IRS. You can mail it or file it through an IRS-authorized representative. The form asks for your identity information and tax filing status. You must include an original or certified copy of your identity document—the same type of document you would bring to the DMV. The IRS processes Form W-7 and mails your ITIN to you, which usually takes four to six weeks.

Many community organizations, tax preparation services, and legal aid offices help immigrants file for an ITIN at no cost or low cost. If you search online for "free ITIN help near me" or contact a local immigrant services organization, they can often walk you through the process or file the form for you.

The written test and road test for immigrants

Delaware offers the written knowledge test in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, Creole, Vietnamese, and others. When you schedule your appointment at the DMV, tell them which language you need. The test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices specific to Delaware. You can study using the Delaware Driver Manual, which is also available in multiple languages on the Delaware DMV website.

You must score at least 80 percent on the written test to pass. If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake it. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may need to schedule another appointment depending on how busy the DMV office is.

The road test is conducted by a DMV examiner who sits in the car with you while you drive. The examiner watches how you handle the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. The test takes about 30 minutes and covers basic driving skills like parking, turning, stopping, and merging. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. A friend or family member can lend you their car as long as it meets these requirements.

If English is not your first language, you can request an interpreter during the road test. Contact the DMV office ahead of time to arrange this. The examiner will still conduct the test in English, but an interpreter will be present to help you understand instructions if needed.

Where to go and how to schedule your appointment

Delaware has DMV offices in Wilmington, Newark, and Georgetown. You can visit any of them. To find the exact address and hours, go to the Delaware DMV website or call 302-744-2500. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with limited Saturday hours at some locations.

You must schedule an appointment before you go. Walk-ins are not accepted at most Delaware DMV offices. You can schedule online through the Delaware DMV website, by phone at 302-744-2500, or in person at any DMV office. When you schedule, tell them you are a new driver and need both the written test and road test. The DMV will give you a date and time for each.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring your completed Form DL-44 if you filled it out at home, or plan to fill it out when you arrive.

Cost and timeline for getting your license

A Delaware driver license costs $20 for a four-year license or $40 for an eight-year license. You choose the length when you explore. Payment is made at the DMV office when you pass your road test. The DMV accepts cash, check, and card payment.

The timeline depends on how quickly you can schedule your appointments and pass your tests. If you already have your ITIN or Social Security Number and all your documents ready, you can schedule your written test within a few days or weeks depending on how busy the DMV is. The written test and road test are usually scheduled on different days, though sometimes they can be on the same day. After you pass the road test, the DMV issues your license on the spot or mails it to you within a few days.

If you need to get an ITIN first, add four to six weeks for the IRS to process your process. If you need to replace a lost or damaged identity document, that timeline depends on your country's embassy or consulate, which can take weeks or months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a consular ID card from my country's embassy?

Yes. Delaware accepts consular ID cards as proof of identity. The card must be valid or expired by no more than five years. Bring the original card to the DMV along with your other documents.

What if my identity document is in a language other than English?

Bring the original document and a certified English translation. A certified translation is one prepared by a professional translator and stamped or signed as accurate. Many translation services provide certified translations for a fee, or you can contact your country's consulate to ask for a list of approved translators.

Do I need a Delaware address to get a license, or can I use an address outside the state?

You must have a Delaware address. The license is issued only to Delaware residents. If you do not yet have a permanent address, some DMV offices accept a letter from a shelter, community center, or other organization confirming that you receive mail there.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake it. There is no waiting period, but you will need to schedule another appointment. You do not have to retake the written test unless it has been more than one year since you passed it. Each road test attempt costs the same fee.

Can I get a license if I have a pending immigration case or am in removal proceedings?

Yes. Delaware does not ask about immigration status or pending cases. Your driver license process is separate from any immigration proceedings. Getting a license does not affect your immigration case.