What You Need to Know Before You Start

Delaware issues three types of driver's licenses: a Class D for regular passenger vehicles, a Class C for commercial trucks, and a Class M for motorcycles. Most new drivers start with Class D. The process takes several weeks and involves a written test, a road test, and a vision screening. You'll need to visit the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person — you cannot complete this entirely online or by mail.

Delaware requires you to be at least 16 years old to get a learner's permit and 17 to get a full license. If you're under 18, you'll go through a graduated licensing system that starts with restrictions and gradually gives you more driving freedom. If you're 18 or older, you can move directly to a full license after passing both tests.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Delaware DMV office in person to take your written and road tests; there is no online testing option.
  • Drivers under 18 start with a learner's permit and must wait at least one month before taking the road test for a full license.
  • You will need a Social Security number, proof of Delaware residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and a birth certificate or passport.
  • The written test covers Delaware traffic laws and road signs; the road test lasts about 20 minutes and tests basic driving skills.
  • A full Class D license costs $20 and is valid for eight years in Delaware.

Documents You Need to Bring to the DMV

Before you go to the DMV, gather these documents. You'll need proof of identity — a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or passport card. You'll also need proof of Social Security number, which can be a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return. Bring proof of Delaware residency dated within the last 30 days, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or insurance document in your name.

If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They will need to sign your process in person. If you're changing your name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change. Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one — this can speed up the process.

The Learner's Permit for Drivers Under 18

If you're under 18, you must first get a learner's permit before you can take the road test. To get the permit, you'll take a written test at the DMV covering Delaware traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 30 questions, and you need to answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You can study using the Delaware Driver's Manual, which is free on the DMV website.

Once you pass the written test, you'll receive your learner's permit when ready. You must hold the permit for at least one month before you can take the road test. During this time, you can drive only with a licensed adult (21 or older) in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.

Taking the Road Test

The road test lasts about 20 minutes and tests your ability to handle basic driving situations. The examiner will ask you to perform tasks like parking, turning, stopping, and merging. They will also check that you can follow traffic signs and adjust to road conditions. The test takes place on public roads in Delaware, usually near the DMV office where you're testing.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and mirrors. You cannot use a vehicle with a "For Sale" sign or temporary tags. If you fail the road test, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one week before your next attempt.

Getting Your Full License After Passing the Road Test

Once you pass the road test, you'll get your full Class D license on the spot. If you're under 18, your license will have restrictions for the first year. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you're driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You also cannot have more than one passenger under 18 in the car (besides siblings) unless a parent or guardian is present.

These restrictions lift on your 18th birthday or one year after you get your license, whichever comes first. If you're 18 or older when you pass the road test, you get an unrestricted license when ready. Your Delaware license is valid for eight years and costs $20.

If You Already Have a License from Another State

If you're moving to Delaware and already have a valid driver's license from another state, you don't have to retake the written and road tests. You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Delaware license by visiting the DMV with your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. The exchange takes a few minutes and costs $20.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you'll need to retake both the written and road tests. If you're under 18 and your out-of-state license doesn't have restrictions, Delaware will add them to your new license for the first year.

Delaware DMV Locations and How to Schedule Your Test

Delaware has three DMV offices: one in Wilmington, one in Dover, and one in Georgetown. You can visit any office to take your written test, but you should schedule your road test in advance because slots fill up quickly. You can schedule online through the Delaware DMV website, by phone at 302-744-2500, or in person at any office.

The written test is offered during regular DMV hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday mornings at some locations. Road tests are also offered during these hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day; visiting early in the week or early in the morning usually means shorter waits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online?

No. Delaware requires you to take the written test in person at a DMV office. You cannot take it online, by mail, or through any third-party service. You must visit one of the three Delaware DMV locations.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts. You pay the test fee each time you take it, though the fee is small (usually included in your license fee).

Do I need a permit if I'm 18 or older?

No. If you're 18 or older, you can skip the permit step and go straight to the road test after passing the written test. You do not have to wait any length of time between the two tests.

What if I move to Delaware from another country?

You'll need to take both the written and road tests, just like a new driver. You'll also need an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or Social Security number. Bring your passport and any other documents showing your identity and Delaware residency.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the road test?

You receive your license when ready after passing the road test. The DMV will issue it on the spot, and you can start driving with your new Delaware license right away.