What you need to know about Delaware driver licenses for immigrants
Delaware issues driver licenses to immigrants regardless of immigration status. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or have permanent residency to get one. The state requires proof of identity, proof of Delaware residency, and a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have a valid passport from your country and can show you live in Delaware, you can move forward with the process.
The process happens at a Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. You will take a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a road test. The whole process typically takes several visits — one to explore and get your learner's permit, and a second (after practice) to take the road test and receive your license.
Key Takeaways
- Delaware does not require citizenship or permanent residency to get a driver license, and you can use a passport and ITIN if you do not have a Social Security number.
- You must show proof of Delaware residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement in your name, dated within the last 30 days.
- The DMV will ask for your name, date of birth, and address in your home country before you can take the written test.
- You need to pass a written test, vision test, and road test; the written and vision tests happen on your first visit, and the road test usually happens on a second visit after you practice with your learner's permit.
- Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted for identity or residency proof.
Documents to bring to the DMV
Bring your original passport or travel document as proof of identity. If your passport is in another language, bring it along with an official English translation. The DMV office can sometimes direct you to a translator, or you can arrange one before you go.
For proof of Delaware residency, bring a document dated within the last 30 days that shows your name and address. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or mail from a government agency will work. If the document is not in your name — for example, if you live with a family member — bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, stating that you live there, plus a copy of their ID.
Bring your Social Security number if you have one. If you do not, bring your ITIN letter from the IRS (the letter that came with your ITIN number). If you have neither, tell the DMV staff when you arrive; they will explain what documents they can accept instead.
The written test and learner's permit
On your first visit, you will take a written test on Delaware traffic laws and road signs. The test is available in English and several other languages, including Spanish, French, and Chinese. You can request a test in your language when you call to schedule your appointment or when you arrive at the office.
The test has 30 questions, and you need to answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You can study using the Delaware Driver Manual, which is free and available online in multiple languages on the DMV website. Many immigrants also use free study apps or YouTube videos to prepare.
If you pass the written test and the vision test, you will receive a learner's permit on the same day. This permit lets you practice driving with a licensed driver in the car. Delaware law requires that the licensed driver be at least 21 years old and hold a valid license. You must keep your learner's permit for at least one week before you can take the road test, though most people practice for several weeks.
The road test and getting your license
Once you feel ready, schedule your road test at a DMV office. Bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance for the vehicle you will use, and the vehicle itself. The test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. A DMV examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks — starting the car, turning, parking, and stopping — and will watch how you handle traffic and follow road signs.
If you pass, you will receive your driver license the same day or within a few days. If you do not pass, you can schedule another test. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though you will pay the test fee each time.
Costs and how long it takes
The learner's permit costs around $20 to $30, and the driver license costs around $40 to $50. Prices vary slightly depending on how long you want your license to be valid. A Delaware driver license is valid for five years from the date you receive it.
The whole process — from your first visit to receiving your license — usually takes two to four weeks if you practice regularly and pass the road test on your first attempt. If you need to retake the road test, add another week or two for each attempt.
If you have a license from another country
Delaware does not offer a direct exchange for foreign driver licenses. You must take the written test and road test like any new driver. However, if you have a valid license from your home country, you can use it to practice driving while you hold your learner's permit — you do not need to wait for the learner's permit alone.
Some people find it helpful to bring their foreign license to the DMV to show that they already know how to drive, though this does not waive the written or road test. The DMV staff can tell you whether your foreign license can be used as proof of driving experience.
What happens if your immigration status changes
Your Delaware driver license remains valid as long as it has not expired, even if your immigration status changes. If you become a permanent resident or U.S. citizen, you do not need to renew your license early or get a new one. You can straightforward renew it when it expires, using the same process as any other driver.
If your visa or status expires and you are no longer in the United States, your license will no longer be useful, but the state will not revoke it automatically. If you return to Delaware later, you can renew your license at that time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Delaware driver license if I am undocumented?
Yes. Delaware does not require proof of legal immigration status to issue a driver license. You need a valid passport or travel document, proof of Delaware residency, and either a Social Security number or an ITIN. Bring these documents to the DMV and follow the standard process.
What if my passport is expired?
An expired passport can still be used as proof of identity for a Delaware driver license. The DMV accepts expired passports because they still show who you are. Bring the expired passport along with your other documents.
Do I need a Delaware address to get a license, or can I use a P.O. box?
You need a physical residential address in Delaware — a P.O. box does not count. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, ask the DMV about alternative documentation. Some offices can work with you on a case-by-case basis.
Can someone else take the road test for me?
No. You must take the road test yourself. The examiner needs to see how you drive and make sure you understand Delaware traffic laws. There is no way to substitute or have someone else take the test on your behalf.
What if I fail the road test?
You can retake it as many times as you need. Schedule another test at the DMV, pay the test fee again, and practice more before your next attempt. Many people pass on their second or third try. There is no penalty for retaking the test beyond the fee.