Documents and information you'll bring to the DMV

To get a Delaware driver's license, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Delaware's Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) accepts a specific list of documents for each category, and you must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone won't work.

For identity, bring one document from this list: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa, a permanent resident card, or a military ID. If you're under 18, you'll also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person at the DMV.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill with your name and a Delaware address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works if it shows your current address.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring an original or certified copy of your identity document — a passport, birth certificate, or military ID — because photocopies are not accepted.
  • Bring proof you live in Delaware, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days, with your name and address on it.
  • You'll need your Social Security number, and if you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be present to sign your process.
  • The written test covers Delaware traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free manual on the Delaware DMV website before you go.
  • The vision test is done at the DMV, and you'll take a photo for your license, so plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour there.

What happens during your DMV visit

When you arrive at a Delaware DMV office, bring your documents to the front desk. A staff member will check that everything is there and in order, then direct you to take the written test on a computer. The test has 30 questions about Delaware traffic laws and road signs, and you need to answer at least 24 correctly to pass.

After you pass the written test, you'll take a vision screening at the DMV. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. You'll then have your photo taken for your license. If you fail the vision test, you may be asked to get a vision exam from an eye doctor and return with the results.

Once you've passed both tests, you'll pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.

Fees and how long it takes

A Delaware driver's license costs $20 and is valid for five years if you're 18 or older. If you're under 18, the license costs $10 and expires when you turn 21. You pay the fee at the DMV after you pass both tests.

The entire process at the DMV usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. The temporary paper license you receive that day is valid when ready for driving. Your permanent license arrives by mail in two to three weeks; you can use the paper license until it arrives.

Preparing for the written test

The Delaware DMV publishes a free driver's manual online at dmv.delaware.gov. The manual covers traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, and what to do at traffic lights and stop signs. Reading through it once before your visit gives you a solid foundation for the test.

The test questions are straightforward and based directly on the manual. Common topics include what a yellow light means, when you can turn right on red, and how far back you must stay from a fire truck. If you've read the manual, you'll recognize most of the questions.

If you already have a license from another state

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and you're moving to Delaware, you can exchange it for a Delaware license. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Delaware, and your Social Security number to the DMV. You won't need to take the written test, but you will still take the vision screening and have a new photo taken.

The fee for an out-of-state exchange is the same as for a new license: $20 for adults, $10 for drivers under 18. Your new Delaware license will be valid for the same length of time as a new license would be.

What to do if you don't have all your documents

If you don't have an original identity document, you can order a certified birth certificate from the Delaware Division of Vital Statistics or from the state where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks. If you need your document faster, some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee.

If you're having trouble getting proof of residency because you just moved or don't have a utility bill in your name, ask the DMV what alternatives they accept. Some offices will accept a letter from your landlord or a recent piece of mail from a government agency. Call your local DMV office before you visit to ask what they can work with in your situation.

Delaware DMV office locations and hours

Delaware has DMV offices in Wilmington, Dover, and Georgetown. Each office has different hours, and some are closed on certain days. Check dmv.delaware.gov for the address, phone number, and hours of the office nearest you before you go.

If you have questions about whether a specific document will be accepted, call the DMV office ahead of time rather than making a trip and finding out your document doesn't work. Staff can tell you over the phone whether your identity or residency document meets their requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online before I go to the DMV?

No, you must take the written test at the DMV office in person. However, you can study the free Delaware driver's manual on the DMV website before your visit, which covers all the topics the test will ask about.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day or come back another day. There's no additional fee to retake it. Most people pass on the second try after reviewing the manual again.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

Delaware DMV offices accept walk-ins, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Call ahead to ask how busy your local office is, or check the DMV website to see if appointments are available.

What if I'm under 18 and my parent can't come with me?

Your parent or legal guardian must be present in person to sign your process. If neither parent can attend, a legal guardian or someone with power of attorney can sign instead. Call the DMV to ask what documents that person needs to bring.

Can I renew my license by mail?

No, you must visit the DMV in person for a new license. However, if you already have a Delaware license and it's not expired, you may be able to renew it by mail or online depending on your age and how long your current license is valid. Check the DMV website for renewal options.