You can apply for a new driver's license at one of the offices of the Division of Motor Vehicles in Wilmington, New Castle, Dover, or Georgetown after checking their office hours and locations. Obtain a Delaware Driver's Manual to familiarize with the driving rules and regulations.

NEW DRIVERS AND FIRST TIME APPLICANTS

Following are the basic requirements for applying for a Delaware driver's license:

1. Applicants must be 15 years and 10 months of age or older.
2. Any individual under 18 should have been in a Graduated Driver License before applying for a license.
3. Everyone must pass the vision screening and written test and a road test. The Driver Manual gives details on how to prepare for the test. See Practice Tests and Driver education programs for more information on the tests.
4. Applicants must provide acceptable proof of identification, residency, and presence.

NEW RESIDENTS

Residents with a valid license from their home country can drive in Delaware, but need to carry it with them when driving. New Delaware residents need to obtain a valid license for the state of Delaware within 60 days of moving in. However, like other applicants, new residents must provide proof of identification, residency, and presence. Non-US citizens residing in Delaware may apply for a Delaware driver's license, as long as they can provide proof that they are legally authorized to be in the United States, and meet all the other requirements. Otherwise, licenses issued in the home country hold valid and have to be carried at all times by non-US citizens. There is a 60 day period during which non-US citizens converting to Delaware residents must apply for a Delaware Driver's license and undergo all the necessary written and road tests. Drivers with a valid German license need not take the vision and road skill tests specific to Delaware.

FEES

The cost for a non-commercial (Class D) Delaware driver's license is $25. There might be other charges applicable as listed in the chart.

VALIDITY

The validity of a Delaware driver's license is based on the driver's age at the time the license was issued.

• Effective August 1, 2007, as a result of HB 253, Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles does not issue permanent licenses. Permanent licenses issued prior to this date need to be renewed every 5 years at a fees of $15.00. If you have a motorcycle endorsement on the license, then $8.00 extra is charged for endorsement.
• A license issued by the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles is to be renewed once in 5 years in the month of your birthday.

LEARNER'S LICENSE

With certain restrictions, an individual can legally drive in Delaware with a learner's license. See more information on graduated driver licenses here.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• See also Renewing Your License.
• For information on other types of licenses, see Commercial Driver's Licenses, Motorcycle Licenses.
• It is necessary to have active Auto Insurance in order to drive legally in Delaware.
• New drivers see our Driver Education , Driving Schools, Beginner Drivers and Learner's Permits for Beginner Drivers sections.