The documents Delaware requires depend on whether you're getting your first license or renewing

Delaware's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires different documents based on your situation. If you're getting your first license, you'll need proof of identity, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and proof that you're a Delaware resident. If you already have a license from another state, the process is simpler — you'll mainly need that out-of-state license plus proof of residency. The exact documents accepted vary, so knowing what counts before you go saves a trip.

You cannot use a single document for multiple requirements. For example, a utility bill counts as proof of residency but not as proof of identity. Delaware's DMV is strict about this separation, so bring more than you think you'll need.

Key Takeaways

  • You need four separate categories of documents: identity, residency, Social Security verification, and citizenship or legal presence proof.
  • A passport or birth certificate counts as identity proof, but a utility bill or lease only counts as residency proof — you need both.
  • If you're under 18, your parent or guardian must be present and bring their own ID.
  • Delaware accepts documents from other states and countries, but they must be originals or certified copies, not photocopies.
  • The DMV requires you to pass a vision test and written exam on the same day you submit documents, so bring your glasses if you wear them.

Proof of identity documents Delaware accepts

Delaware's DMV accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, or birth certificate as primary identity documents. If you don't have any of these, you can use a state ID from another state, a military ID, or a tribal ID card. All documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted, even if they're notarized.

If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, it must be an official certified copy with an apostille (a special certification for international documents). A foreign birth certificate without an apostille will not work. If you're using a passport from another country, it must be valid and unaltered.

Documents with name changes — such as a marriage certificate or court order — must be brought along with your identity document if your current name differs from the name on your birth certificate or passport. Delaware will not process your process without proof that the name change was legal.

Proof of Delaware residency documents

You must show that you've lived in Delaware for at least 30 days before explore for a license. Delaware accepts a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill. The document must show your name and current Delaware address, and it cannot be more than 60 days old.

If you're living with someone else and don't have a bill in your name, you can use a notarized letter from the homeowner or landlord stating that you live there. The letter must include the address, your name, and the date you moved in. The person writing the letter must sign it in front of a notary public — a signature alone is not enough.

Bank statements, credit card statements, and insurance documents also count as residency proof if they show your name and Delaware address. However, documents from government agencies (like a tax return or benefits letter) are not accepted for residency, even if they show your address.

Social Security number and citizenship documents

Delaware requires you to provide your Social Security number when you explore. You don't need to bring a Social Security card — you can straightforward state the number. However, if you don't have a Social Security number, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

You must also prove that you are a U.S. citizen or have legal presence in the United States. A U.S. passport or birth certificate serves this purpose. If you are a permanent resident (green card holder), bring your green card or Employment Authorization Document (EAD). If you have a visa, bring your passport showing the visa stamp and your I-94 arrival/departure record.

If you are a refugee or asylee, bring your I-797 approval notice or I-131 travel document. Delaware does not issue licenses to people on temporary visas unless they also have work authorization or are in a protected status category.

What to bring if you're renewing from another state

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for a Delaware license without retaking the written exam (though you will still take a vision test). Bring your current out-of-state license and one document showing your Delaware residency — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement will work.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you'll need to bring the expired license plus your proof of identity and residency. You will have to take the written exam in this case. If you've lost your out-of-state license, bring a replacement document from that state's DMV or use your passport instead.

Delaware will not accept a license from another country as a substitute for a U.S. license. If you have an international driving permit, it is not valid in Delaware on its own — you must still obtain a Delaware license.

Documents needed if you're under 18

If you're under 18, your parent or legal guardian must come with you to the DMV. They must bring their own valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID). The DMV will not process your process without a parent or guardian present and identified.

You will still need to bring all the documents listed above — proof of identity, residency, and citizenship. Your parent's residency document can count as proof that you live in Delaware if you live together, but you should bring your own if possible. If your parent's name is different from yours (for example, if you have a different last name), bring a birth certificate or custody document proving the relationship.

Documents you'll need to bring but might forget

Bring your glasses or contact lenses if you wear them. Delaware's vision test uses the same standards as the written exam, and you must pass both on the same day. If you fail the vision test, you cannot take the written exam, and you'll have to return another day.

Bring a completed DHSMV Form DL-44 (the process form) if you want to save time, though the DMV will provide one if you don't have it. You can read it from the Delaware DMV website before you go. Bring a pen — the DMV does not provide them, and some sections of the form must be completed in pen, not pencil.

If you have a medical condition that affects your driving (such as epilepsy or severe hearing loss), bring documentation from your doctor. Delaware may require a medical evaluation before issuing your license. Bring your current address written down if you've moved recently — the DMV will ask you to confirm it, and having it written helps prevent errors on your license.

What happens if you don't have all the documents

If you arrive at the DMV without all required documents, you will not be able to complete your process that day. The DMV will not issue a temporary license or schedule a return appointment — you'll have to come back on your own time with the missing documents. This means taking time off work or school twice instead of once.

If a document is expired or damaged, the DMV may reject it. For example, a utility bill more than 60 days old will not be accepted, even if it's only a few days over. A birth certificate with water damage or a torn corner may be rejected. If you're unsure whether a document will work, call the Delaware DMV at 302-744-2500 before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo from my phone instead of bringing my documents?

No. Delaware requires original documents or certified copies. Photographs, screenshots, and digital copies are not accepted. If you've lost a document, contact the issuing agency (your state's vital records office for a birth certificate, the Social Security Administration for proof of your number) and request a certified copy before you visit the DMV.

What if my name on my documents doesn't match my current name?

Bring both your old document and proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will not process your process without both. If your name change was recent and you don't have the official document yet, ask the court or vital records office for a certified copy before explore.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You only need to provide your Social Security number verbally or in writing on the process form. The DMV does not require you to show the card itself. However, if you don't have a Social Security number, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming that you are not may be able to access for one.

Can someone else bring my documents if I can't go to the DMV?

No. You must be present in person to explore for a Delaware driver's license. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must also be present. The DMV will not accept documents submitted by mail or by another person on your behalf.

What if my residency document is in my spouse's name, not mine?

You can use it if you live at that address together, but bring a marriage certificate or other proof showing that you share the same household. If the document is only in your spouse's name and you have no document in your own name, ask your spouse to sign a notarized letter confirming that you live there, or bring a second document (like a bank statement) that shows your name and address.