Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?

Motorcycle endorsement applicants under the age of 18 must take an approved motorcycle training course to obtain a DE motorcycle license. Applicants may register online for the Motorcycle Rider Education Course. Drivers 18 and up who chose to take a motorcycle training course will have the written and road test portion of the motorcycle exam waived. You must bring your completion card with you at the time of application.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?

Delaware motorcycle license holders 19 and younger are required to wear a helmet and eye protection when operating a motorcycle. Those 20 and older must still have these pieces of safety gear in his or her possession when riding a motorcycle, though they are not mandated to wear them.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?

No, commercial drivers cannot renew CDL licenses online. Drivers must appear in person at a Delaware DMV location in order to apply for CDL license renewal.

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Can I take the DMV written test online?

No, you cannot take the drivers test for a learners permit online. You must appear at a Delaware DMV location to take the written and vision tests to obtain an instruction permit.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?

Interstate commercial drivers are eligible to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) for travel across the United States. On the other hand, CDL license holders with a (K) intrastate driving restriction can only use their CDL license within the state of Delaware.

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?

No, drivers are not required to have a motorcycle endorsement on their Delaware drivers license to operate a moped. Though you must be a licensed driver to operate a moped in Delaware.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

Do I need to take a drivers ed course?

Learner permit applicants under the age of 18 are required to successfully complete a Delaware drivers education course in order to obtain a Level 1 learner s permit. Permit applicants must present a blue certificate as proof of having completed the drivers ed course at the time of application. Applicants who have completed a drivers ed course in another state, must have it approved by the Department of Education prior to applying.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?

U.S. military veterans can obtain a designated ID card or drivers license that helps businesses to verify their service to the country. Veterans can apply for a veteran designation with their military ID or DD-214 form at any Delaware DMV location. To apply, make an appointment by contacting the Dover DMV at (302) 744-2515. Walk-ins are also welcome.

For more information: How to Apply for a Delaware Identification Card

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?

Prior to applying for a CDL license in Delaware, drivers must hold a CDL learner s permit for a certain period of time and then follow these steps:

  • Visit a local Delaware DMV location
  • Submit an application for a CDL license
  • Take a written knowledge tests
  • Take the CDL skills test

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?

If you are age 16 or 17 years old, you may apply for a Delaware learners permit under the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. Additional requirements include:

  • Proof of having completed a state approved drivers ed course.
  • Proof of completing the required written and road tests.
  • A parent or legal guardian present to provide signature on application.

Beginner drivers over the age of 18 must pass a vision and written test in order to apply for learner s permit.

All learners permit applicants must provide proof of identity/legal presence in the United States, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Delaware residency.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?

To apply for a motorcycle endorsement, you must already be a licensed Delaware driver. Drivers 18 and younger may get a motorcycle license after they have completed a state approved Motorcycle Rider Education Course. Bring your Student Completion Card within six months of completing the course as proof of attendance to apply for an (M) motorcycle endorsement on your Delaware drivers license.

If you are 18 and older then you will need to pass the written test and the road skills test to get your motorcycle endorsement. These tests may be waived if you have completed a state approved motorcycle rider training program.

Fore more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

How do I get a duplicate ID card?

If your ID card was lost, stolen, or destroyed, you can request a duplicate ID card at a DE DMV location. Residents applying for a replacement ID card must provide three different identification documents, with one that includes a signature.

For more information: How to Apply for a Delaware Identification Card

How do I renew my driving permit?

Learners permit holders may only renew drivers permit one time to make it valid for an additional six months. To apply for an extension, visit a Delaware DMV location before your permit s expiration date.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

How do I renew my ID card?

Residents can renew ID card by following these steps:

  • Visit a local DMV office
  • Provide current DE ID card
  • Pay the $20 renewal fee

For more information: How to Apply for a Delaware Identification Card

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?

Certain CDL drivers are required to keep their medical report up to date with the Delaware DMV. In order to renew your medical report for a commercial driver s license, you must be examined by a licensed medical examiner and submit a completed examination form to the Delaware DMV. A copy of the examination form is available on the DE DMV website for your convenience.

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I renew my motorcycle license?

To renew motorcycle license Delaware drivers must appear in person at a DE DMV location. After you fill out an application, pass a vision screening, and pay the $33 fee, you will receive a renewed motorcycle endorsement. There is a chance that you may have to take a written or a road test, though they are normally waived.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?

Applicants getting a motorcycle license may have the written and road test requirement waived if they have completed a state approved motorcycle training course. Military members with a motorcycle endorsement who are experienced motorcycle riders may take an advanced motorcycle training course in Delaware to get a discount on their motorcycle car insurance.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?

Learner s permit applicants under the age of 18 must hold a learner s permit for at least 12 months before applying for a Delaware Class D driver s license. Drivers 18 years of age or older must wait 10 days after they have received their learner s permit before applying for a DE drivers license.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

How long will it take to get my new ID card?

Residents applying for an ID card will receive it immediately. As long as you present the required documentation, your new ID card will be issued at the time of application at the DMV office.

For more information: How to Apply for a Delaware Identification Card

How often do I need to renew my CDL license?

Delaware CDL licenses are now issued for a period of eight years. You will have to renew CDL s with HAZMAT endorsements sooner. The DE commercial drivers license expires on the driver s birthday the eighth year after issuance. Drivers can renew CDL up to six months prior to drivers license expiration date.

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?

Residents who have lost their ID card while out of state must apply for a duplicate ID card upon their return at a Delaware DMV office.

For more information: How to Apply for a Delaware Identification Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?

Yes, there is a minimum age limit to get CDL license. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and must also have at least one year of driving experience to obtain an intrastate commercial drivers license. To be an interstate commercial driver, applicants must be 21 or older with at least one year driving experience.

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?

Delaware motorcycle endorsement applicants must be at least 17 years old. Also, under age applicants must have completed a motorcycle rider training course to apply for a motorcycle endorsement. Delaware state law mandates motorcycle riders and passengers age 19 and under to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

What are the available commercial license endorsements?

The following CDL endorsements are available from the Delaware DMV:

  • (H) Hazardous Material
  • (N) Tanker
  • (P) Passenger for Class A, B, and C CDL license
  • (Q) Passenger for class B and C CDL license
  • (R) Passenger for class C CDL license
  • (S) School Bus
  • (T) Double/Triples
  • (Z) Taxi Cab

The Delaware CDL Manual contains the information needed to study for CDL endorsement and knowledge tests.

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the fees associated with an ID card?

The following is a list of fees associated with getting, renewing, and replacing a Delaware ID card:

  • ID card: $20
  • Duplicate ID card: $10
  • ID card renewal: $20

For more information: How to Apply for a Delaware Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?

Delaware learners permit restrictions are separated in six month intervals. For the first six months restrictions include:

  • Supervision by a licensed driver 25 or older at all times while driving.
  • Be certified by a parent or legal guardian as having driven 50 hours, including 10 nighttime hours.

After the first six-month period, the permit holder has the following restrictions:

  • May only drive unsupervised from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Outside of the above mentioned hours, driving must be supervised unless travel is to and from work, church, or school.

Additionally, the permit holder cannot carry any passengers other than supervising passenger for the first 12 months. Immediate family members are excluded from this restriction.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?

Drivers are required to meet certain medical standards in order to be eligible to get a CDL license in Delaware. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration sets the medical standards for CDL drivers across the nation. Based on the type of commercial driving applicants will be doing, drivers may have to keep a copy of his or her Medical Examiners Certificate also known as a DOT Physical Card on file with the Delaware DMV. Applicants can find a copy of the Medical Examination Report on the Delaware DMV website.

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?

Learner s permit holders convicted of a serious traffic violations can receive a suspended drivers license. The suspension period could be one month for the first offense and three months for the second offence.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?

The requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle are the same as they are for operating a two-wheel motorcycle. The Delaware Motorcycle Operator Manual provides information on how to safely operate a three-wheeled motorcycle. Drivers are advised to also read and be aware of the all the information provided in the manual.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?

To get learners permits in Delaware, all applicants are required to provide the following documentation:

  • One proof of identity/legal presence in the United States:
    • US Birth Certificate
    • Consular report of birth abroad
    • Certificate of Naturalization
  • One proof of Social Security number:
    • Social Security Card
    • W-2 tax form
    • Pay stub with full SSN
  • Two proofs of Delaware residency:
    • Utility bill
    • Credit card statement
    • Insurance policy

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?

Drivers under the age of 18 must show proof that they have completed a Motorcycle Rider Education Course. You must bring your certificate as proof of completion when you go to apply for a motorcycle license. Under age applicants must also have written permission from a parent or legal guardian to get a motorcycle endorsement. All applicants must bring a Delaware drivers license to the DMV to get motorcycle license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?

To get a motorcycle endorsement on a Delaware drivers license, applicants must pass a vision, written, and road tests. In lieu of the road and written test requirement, the applicant may complete a state approved motorcycle rider training course to get DE motorcycle license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Delaware

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?

Driving under the influence is a major violation of your commercial driver s license, those who are convicted of a DUI face receiving a commercial drivers license suspension. Operating a commercial motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .04 percent or more is illegal. As a CDL driver, your CDL license will be suspended for one year if convicted of DWI. Your CDL license will be revoked for life if convicted of a subsequent DUI.

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What is an ID card?

Delaware ID cards are picture identification used by residents who do not drive. ID cards are considered an official form of identification, and can be used to fly within the country or open bank account, among other things.

For more information: How to Apply for a Delaware Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?

In order to pass the Delaware learners permit written test, applicants must get at least 24 questions correct out of 30 questions.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?

First time drivers under the age of 18 must take a drivers ed course to get a learners permit in Delaware. Learner s permit applicants 18 and older must take the written drivers test which consists of a highway sign and signal test. All applicants for a DE learners permit will also have to pass a vision screening to get a learner s permit.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?

To obtain a DE CDL license, applicants will need to take any applicable written knowledge and endorsement tests. A CDL skills test must be taken at a later date. This test is a three parts and constitutes a pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and finally an on-road test. Signing up for CDL driver training course is a great way to prepare for the CDL examination process.

For more information: Delaware Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

When does my ID card expire?

A Delaware ID card expires every four years from the date of your next birthday.

For more information: How to Apply for a Delaware Identification Card

Where can I obtain an ID card?

To apply for a Delaware ID card, visit a local Delaware DMV office location. Upon arrival, residents will be asked to provide one proof of identity/legal presence in the U.S., one proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of DE residency. Additionally, applicants will be required to pay the $10 duplicate ID card fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a Delaware Identification Card

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?

In order to receive a learner permit, applicants under the age of 18 must have a signature from a qualified sponsor. The sponsor will also be certifying that he or she will be responsible for any liability that may result from negligence on the part of the minor while operating a motor vehicle.

The following is an ordered list of preferred people to act as sponsors for a minor driver:

  • Parent
  • Legal guardian or court-appointed custodian
  • Person deemed suitable by the Delaware Secretary of Transportation or Chief of Driver Services

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Delaware