In Delaware, a driver's license is not only a form of identification but also a legal requirement for operating a motor vehicle. As stated in Section 2701 of the Delaware Code, driving without a valid driver's license is considered unlawful within the state. This emphasizes the necessity of obtaining and carrying a driver's license while driving in Delaware.
The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is responsible for issuing driver's licenses. This regulatory body verifies that all applicants fulfill the predetermined criteria, promoting road safety and compliance with state regulations. Also, it sets specific requirements that individuals must meet to obtain and retain their driver's licenses.
Staying informed about the DMV's requirements and any updates or changes is essential for maintaining a valid driver's license in Delaware.
What Are the Types of Driver's Licenses in Delaware?
The Delaware DMV issues numerous types of driver's licenses to accommodate the diverse needs of its residents. They are as follows:
Class D Driver's License
A Class D license is the most common type of driver's license in Delaware. It is the standard non-commercial driver's license that allows individuals to operate vehicles with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 26,000 pounds or less. This license is commonly used for passenger cars, SUVs, light trucks, and vans that carry less than 16 passengers (including the driver).
NON-CDL Class A/B
Delaware's non-CDL licenses encompass Class A and Class B licenses. These are necessary for driving farms, firefighting, and other authorized emergency vehicles under a CDL (commercial driver's license) waiver.
Class A CDL
A Class A CDL in Delaware is required for individuals who wish to operate the largest and heaviest vehicles on the road. This type of license enables drivers to handle combinations of vehicles with a gross combined vehicle weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, where the vehicle(s) being towed have a vehicle weight of over 10,000 pounds.
Class B CDL
Anyone planning to drive a single commercial motor vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds or more or tow another under 10,000 pounds must get a Class B CDL.
This license is needed by delivery drivers, public transit operators, and construction vehicle operators. Specifically, it is necessary to operate box trucks, city buses, school buses, dump trucks with small trailers, and other large single vehicles.
Class C CDL
In Delaware, a Class C CDL is needed to drive vehicles that carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver, or transport hazardous materials with placarding, as long as the vehicle's GVWR is under 26,001 pounds.
How To Obtain a Driver's License in Delaware?
The specific requirements for obtaining a driver's license in Delaware may vary depending on the type of license needed.
Generally, applicants must visit any DE DMV office in person. This visit involves submitting the required documents, completing mandatory tests, and processing the application and fees. Additionally, if applicants are under 18 years old, they must follow the state's Graduated Driver's License program.
Delaware Graduated Driver's License Program
The Graduated Driver License (GDL) program in Delaware is designed to help new drivers, particularly teenagers, gain experience and develop safe driving habits under controlled conditions.
This program begins with obtaining a learner's permit, having supervised practice driving with a qualified individual, and receiving a Class D after 12 months.
Applicants must be at least 16 years old to qualify for this program. They should also have a certificate of completion from a Delaware-approved driver education course and submit numerous documents proving identity, Delaware residency, and Social Security Number. In addition, their applications must be signed by a parent or guardian to assume responsibility.
The applicant will receive a learner's permit if qualified. With this permit, the applicant may drive during these six months only when accompanied by a licensed operator over 21 sitting beside the driver.
During this period, no other passengers are allowed except for immediate family members. Additionally, driving between 10 PM and 6 AM is prohibited unless supervised by an adult. All passengers must wear seat belts at all times, and using electronic devices while driving is strictly prohibited.
If permit holders wish to graduate to the next level, they must hold the learner's permit for at least 12 months without violations. They must pass a road skills test to obtain an intermediate license.
Documentary Requirements for Obtaining a Driver's License in Delaware
To apply for a driver's license in Delaware, individuals must prepare the following documents:
- Proof of identity (e.g., certified birth certificate or valid passport)
- Proof of Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or pay stub.
- Proof of Delaware residency (e.g., utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement)
- Proof of legal presence in the U.S. if applicable (e.g., Green Card, valid visa)
- Proof of legal name change, if applicable
For a comprehensive list of acceptable documents, refer to the Driver's License and Identification Cards General Requirements page on the official DE DMV website.
Delaware Driver's License Tests
Apart from submitting the required documents, individuals must also pass numerous exams to get a DE driver's license, regardless of the license type. Here is a breakdown of the tests involved when obtaining a driver's license in Delaware:
Vision Test
A thorough vision evaluation is required to ensure safe driving. If glasses or contacts are needed, this will be noted on the license, making it illegal to drive without them. The minimum vision for a Delaware license is 20/40, with restricted daylight driving allowed for vision between 20/40 and 20/50.
Knowledge Test
This test ensures drivers know how to operate a vehicle safely on Delaware highways. It consists of 30 questions about road rules, traffic signs, and safe driving practices.
To pass the knowledge test, applicants must correctly answer at least 24 out of the 30 questions and achieve a score of at least 80%.
Sign and Signal Test
Examinees must identify highway signs accurately based on their shape and color or displayed symbols. Furthermore, they must clearly articulate the meanings of these and other traffic signs, signals, and pavement markings.
Road Regulations Test
Examinees must answer questions on Delaware's road rules, motor vehicle laws, and safety practices, including speed limits, actions for flashing red signals, prohibited passing conditions, skid responses, and parking distances near fire hydrants.
Road Test
Applicants can take the road test 10 days after passing the knowledge exam. This test assesses the applicant's driving skills and safety on the state's roads. One can schedule online or by contacting the local DMV office. The requirements include:
- Valid learner's permit
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old
- Valid registration card for the vehicle the examinee will be using
- Valid insurance card for the vehicle
The test lasts around 30 minutes and evaluates various driving maneuvers, road sign responses, and traffic rules adherence. An examiner conducts a vehicle safety check, assesses driving skills, and will be issued a temporary license on passing, with the official license sent later. Failing may necessitate rescheduling after a specified period.
Delaware Driver's License Fees
The fees for a Delaware driver's license vary depending on the type of license and any endorsements required. The application for a regular Class D license is $40, which is valid for eight years.
The DE DMV offices accept cash, credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover), and checks as payment methods.
For a complete and updated list of fees, check the Motor Vehicle Fees page on the official DE DMV website.
To learn more about the steps for obtaining a driver's license in Delaware, check out the Driver Manual. For those interested in acquiring a commercial driver's license, refer to the Commercial Driver License Manual.
How To Renew or Replace a Driver's License in Delaware?
Renewing a driver's license in Delaware is necessary when the current license is nearing expiration. Similarly, replacement is required if the license is lost, stolen, or damaged or if personal information like name or address changes.
Renewal of DE Licenses
Driver's licenses in Delaware are typically issued for eight years and will expire on the applicant's birthday. It can be renewed up to 180 days before expiration. Renewal reminders are sent to each driver about 60 days before the expiration date.
The process for renewing DE licenses typically requires an application form available at any DMV office, the current driver's license, and proof of residency if the address has changed.
Renewing a driver's license in Delaware can be done in person or online.
In-Person Renewal
For in-person renewal, the process is as follows:
- Visit any DMV facility in Delaware.
- Submit the required documents and any necessary forms.
- Pass an eye-screening exam if required.
- Pay the renewal fee of $40 by cash, check, or card, and an additional $10 late fee if applicable.
- Receive a new driver's license valid for up to eight years.
Online Renewal
Individuals aged 18 and above who meet the eligibility criteria can conveniently renew their driver's license through the online portal. Online renewal is not an option for holders of commercial or graduated driver's licenses or those who utilized the automated ordering kiosk during their last DMV visit.
The following are the steps to renew online:
Replacement of DE Licenses
The fastest way to obtain a duplicate DE driver's license is to visit a local DMV office directly. They can issue a duplicate license instantly. The process is similar to renewing a license in person but with minor differences. The steps are as follows:
- Visit a DMV office in person.
- Provide one proof of identification, one proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of DE residency.
- Pay the $20 replacement fee.
- Pass a vision test if required.
- Receive the duplicate driver's license.
If the driver is under the age of 18, the sponsor who initially signed for their driver's license must be present to authorize the duplicate.
What Happens if a Driver's License Is Suspended in Delaware?
Common reasons for license suspension in Delaware include driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, accumulating excessive points on one's driving record due to traffic violations, failure to pay traffic tickets or court fees, neglecting court-ordered child support payments, and being involved in serious traffic offenses or major accidents.
Individuals with a suspended license cannot legally drive until the suspension ends and all reinstatement requirements are met. Suspension length varies based on reasons like DUI, accumulating too many points, or failing to maintain insurance. Periods can range from 30 days to several years.
To reinstate a suspended license in Delaware, individuals must pay a reinstatement fee, complete any required programs like an Alcohol Education Program, and meet specific criteria set by the court or DMV.
Reinstating a suspended license in Delaware involves a $50 fee. Additionally, individuals may need to retake written tests, road exams, and vision screenings.
For questions regarding license suspension or to pay the reinstatement fee over the phone, individuals can call 302-744-2509.
Can Someone Drive in Delaware With a Foreign License?
Individuals over 16 with a valid driver's license from another country can drive in Delaware and operate motor vehicles if their foreign license is in their immediate possession.
However, driving with a foreign license is only permissible in the state for up to 60 days. Once this time has passed, the foreign license holder must obtain a Delaware license to continue driving legally within the state roads.
Can a Foreigner Get a Driver's License in Delaware?
Individuals from foreign countries can obtain a driver's license in Delaware. However, they must establish residency in the state within 60 days before applying for a license.
Foreign applicants are generally required to pass both written and road tests when applying for a Delaware license. If the applicant is from Germany, Taiwan, or France, they are exempt from taking these tests when applying for a Class D license due to reciprocity agreements.
For additional information on obtaining a driver's license in Delaware as a foreigner, contact or visit the nearest DE DMV office.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Types of Driver's Licenses in Delaware?
- How To Obtain a Driver's License in Delaware?
- How To Renew or Replace a Driver's License in Delaware?
- What Happens if a Driver's License Is Suspended in Delaware?
- Can Someone Drive in Delaware With a Foreign License?
- Can a Foreigner Get a Driver's License in Delaware?