Delaware Driver’s License Requirements
To obtain a driver’s license in Delaware, you need proof of residence and a valid ID, and you must pass a visions test, a road test, and a written exam.
Written by Rob Shapiro
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
To get your driver’s license in Delaware, you must be at least 17 years old. The process to get your driver’s license involves paying a $40 fee and passing a vision exam, a knowledge test, and a road test.
Getting a driver’s license means opening the door to a whole new level of freedom. It’s road trips and saying goodbye to waiting for the bus. Each state outlines its own process, and often you need to complete a lengthy series of steps.
Here to help you learn all the requirements for obtaining your Delaware driver’s license is
car insurance
comparison and broker app Jerry
. We can also score you some great savings on your Delaware car insurance costs
down below!
Make safe driving pay
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning now
What are the requirements for a driver’s license in Delaware?
For starters, you must be at least 16 years old to enter into the Graduate Driver License (GDL) program. To get your regular driver's license, you must be at least 17 years old.
Gather these documents prior to heading over to the DMV:
- Proof of identity, including your first name and date of birth
- Proof of lawful status in the United States
- SSN (you need a letter from the Social Security Administration if you are ineligible)
- Proof of date of birth
- Primary residence address
Each document must be in its certified or original form.
Head to the
Delaware DMV Permit Test
website to learn more about what documentation you need and some tips on how to pass your written test
. What are the requirements for young drivers?
When you turn 16, you can start your driver’s education. To eventually get your license, you will need to:
- Complete a state-approved driving education program. These are often offered by your high school for free and include both in-class and in-car training.
- Apply for a learner’s permit at a DMV. You will need to show proof that you completed the required driving education.
- Pass a vision test.
- Pay the application fee of $40.
Once you turn 17 and have had your Level One learner permit for a minimum of 12 months, the restrictions will be lifted, and your permit will become a
Class D driver’s license
.And once you turn 18, you will need to get a Class D operator’s license, which is awarded post-graduation from a 12- month GDL program. You may be able to get your license earlier by taking the written, eye, and road skills tests at your local Delaware DMV.
What are the requirements for out-of-state drivers?
If you move from another state to Delaware, you will have 60 days to apply for a Delaware driver’s license.
You will have to hand over your out-of-state driver’s license or a certified copy of your driving record and provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence. You can receive your new and compliant Delaware license if you can provide all the required documentation.
How to get a driver’s license in Delaware
For new drivers: complete the GDL program
If you are 16 years old, you can enter the GDL program. This program allows young drivers to learn to drive and gain some experience behind the wheel.
MORE:
Delaware driver age
Vision test
Before you can proceed with the driver’s license application process, it’s important to make sure you’re able to see the road!
To meet Delaware’s requirements, you must display at least 20/40 or better vision with or without glasses or contact lenses. You can be permitted to only drive during daylight if your vision is between 20/40 and 20/50.
This test typically involves recognizing letters, numbers, and characters on rows. The sharpness of your vision will be gauged based on the rows with the smallest print or font size.
Knowledge exam
To get your driver’s license, you will have to pass a
knowledge test
made up of 30 questions. You will need to correctly answer 24 questions for a score of at least 80%.Road test
The test that makes most young drivers or first-time drivers the most nervous is the road test. The Delaware road test takes about 30 minutes, and you will be required to prove your ability to do everyday driving tasks such as:
- Inspect your vehicle for safety
- Maintain proper speed
- Respond to road signs, traffic signals, and pavement markings
- Three-point turn
- Safely change lanes
- Make left and right turns
- Use right-of-way rules
- Follow and overtake vehicles
- Be overtaken by other vehicles
- Merge with traffic
- Enter intersections
- Know vehicle controls
- Parallel parking
Don’t forget that It is always the driver’s responsibility to provide the vehicle for the road test.
How to save money on car insurance in Delaware
Great news! You’ve passed your driving test and have your driver’s license. Now, it’s time to shop for car insurance that won’t break the bank. Use the car insurance comparison app
Jerry
to get maximum savings in only 45 seconds! Our
trusted super app
searches for quotes from dozens of top insurance companies like Nationwide to find you the lowest rate based on the coverage you need. Jerry also provides end-to-end support and expertise. “I’m young and just got my first car, so choosing an insurance company for the first time was scary. My friend recommended this app to me and Jerry made everything simple! I put in my info and got something more affordable than what I expected for my age!” —Leslie T.
"I’m earning
awesome rewards
every week, just for driving safe!”
Patricia W.
Reviewed on 5/28/2023
FAQs
What do I need for a Delaware driver’s license?
To get your driver’s license in Delaware, you’ll need to submit valid identification, all the required documentation, pass the required tests, and pay the $40 fee.
How much does it cost to get a Florida driver’s license?
The fee to get a Delaware driver’s license is $40.
4.7
