What You Need to Do to Get a Delaware Driver's License

To get your first Delaware driver's license, you must pass a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a road test, then submit the required documents in person at a Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. The entire process takes at least two visits — one to take the written and vision tests, and a second (usually weeks later) to take the road test and pick up your license. You cannot complete this online or by mail.

Delaware issues a standard Class D license for regular passenger vehicles. You must be at least 16 years old to begin the process, though the age at which you can take the road test depends on whether you completed a driver education course and how long you have held a learner's permit.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DMV office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of Delaware residency to start the process.
  • The written test covers traffic laws and safe driving; you need a score of at least 80 percent to pass.
  • You must hold a learner's permit for a minimum of 120 days before you can take the road test, or 60 days if you completed a certified driver education course.
  • The road test costs $20 and must be scheduled in advance; you provide your own vehicle, which must pass a safety inspection.
  • Delaware charges $20 for a Class D license that is valid for eight years.

Documents You Must Bring to the DMV

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted. You need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state ID), your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, and proof that you live in Delaware.

For proof of residency, Delaware accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance document also works if it shows your name and current address. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must sign the process in person at the DMV.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport and either a green card, visa, or employment authorization document. If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, bring the marriage certificate or court document along with your previous ID.

The Written Test and Vision Screening

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Delaware traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 24 questions correctly (80 percent) to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish. You have one hour to complete it.

The vision screening checks that you can see 20/40 or better in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them to the DMV. If you fail the vision test, you will be referred to an eye care professional and cannot proceed until you return with a vision correction form signed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return on another day. There is no fee to retake the test. Most people pass on the first attempt if they study the Delaware Driver's Manual, which is free and available online at the DMV website.

Getting and Holding a Learner's Permit

After you pass the written and vision tests, you receive a learner's permit on the spot. The permit costs $20 and is valid for one year. You must hold this permit for a minimum of 120 days before you can take the road test — or 60 days if you completed a certified driver education course in Delaware.

While you hold a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver age 21 or older is 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. Violating these rules can result in fines and loss of your permit.

If your permit expires before you take the road test, you must renew it at the DMV. Renewal costs $20. You do not need to retake the written test — just bring your expired permit and pay the fee.

Scheduling and Taking the Road Test

You must schedule your road test at least two weeks in advance by calling the Delaware DMV or visiting an office in person. Road tests are offered Monday through Friday at DMV locations in Wilmington, Newark, and Georgetown. The test costs $20 and takes about 20 minutes.

You must bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance for the vehicle you will drive, and the vehicle itself. The vehicle must pass a safety inspection — the examiner will check that the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, horn, and mirrors all work. If the vehicle fails inspection, you cannot take the test that day and must reschedule.

The road test includes driving on local streets and highways, parking, and responding to traffic signals and signs. The examiner will ask you to perform specific maneuvers such as three-point turns and backing up. You must follow all traffic laws and demonstrate safe driving habits. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you must wait at least one week and pay the $20 fee again.

Receiving Your License and Understanding Restrictions

If you pass the road test, you receive your Delaware driver's license on the same day. The license is valid for eight years and costs $20 (you pay this fee when you pass the road test, not before). Your license will have a photo, your name, address, date of birth, and license number.

If you are under 18 when you receive your license, it will have restrictions. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first six months, and you cannot have more than one passenger under age 18 in the vehicle (unless they are family members). These restrictions are lifted when you turn 18 or after six months, whichever comes first.

Your Delaware license is valid in all 50 states and U.S. territories. You do not need an International Driving Permit unless you plan to rent a car outside the United States.

DMV Locations and Hours in Delaware

Delaware has three full-service DMV offices: one in Wilmington (1901 North DuPont Highway), one in Newark (410 Wolf Run Road), and one in Georgetown (22405 DuPont Boulevard). All three offices handle first-time license applications, written tests, and road test scheduling.

Hours vary by location but are generally Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some offices open on Saturday mornings. The Wilmington office is the busiest and often has longer wait times. Arriving early in the week or early in the day typically means shorter waits. You do not need an appointment for the written test, but you must schedule the road test in advance.

You can find current hours, phone numbers, and a link to the road test scheduling system on the Delaware DMV website. If you have questions before you visit, call the DMV customer service line or visit in person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test before I turn 16?

No. You must be at least 16 years old to take the written test and receive a learner's permit. However, some high schools in Delaware offer driver education courses to students age 15 and older, which can shorten the time you must hold a permit before taking the road test.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test, but you must wait at least one week. You pay the $20 test fee again each time you retake it. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test. Most people pass on the second or third attempt.

Do I need to take a driver education course?

No, it is not required. However, if you complete a certified course, you can reduce the time you must hold a learner's permit from 120 days to 60 days. Some insurance companies also offer discounts for completing a course.

Can I use my learner's permit to drive alone?

No. While you hold a learner's permit, you must have a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front passenger seat at all times. You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.

How long is a Delaware driver's license valid?

A Class D license is valid for eight years. You must renew it before it expires. Renewal can be done by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office, depending on your age and whether your address has changed.