Getting your first Delaware driver license
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
Under 18: finish the 12-month GDL program; your permit becomes a Class D license automatically.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 202618 or older: apply at a DMV office and pass the eye screening and knowledge exam to get a permit.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Study the Driver Manual for the 32-question test; you need 26 right.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Practice with a licensed driver over 21 in the front seat beside you.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Wait 30 days after the knowledge exam, then book a road test online or by phone.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026If you fail the road test, wait at least 30 days before trying again.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- Permit / license fee
- $50.00 Class D fee for an 8-year license, paid when you apply. It also covers the learner's permit that comes first.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Permit cost included
- There is no separate Class D permit fee. The license fee includes it.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Booking the road test
- Use the online My Road Test scheduler or call a DMV office. Road tests run every weekday except Wednesday.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Wait before the road test
- 30 days after passing the Class D knowledge exam, per the July 2026 manual. Some older DMV web pages still say 10 days.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- If you fail the road test
- Wait at least 30 days before retesting.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- New residents under 18
- Must get a Delaware license within 60 days, have approved driver education and a sponsor, and pass written, road and eye tests.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Delaware guide
Official Delaware links
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Not a government website. USA DMV (usadmv.app) is an independent study resource. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or operated by any state DMV, the Texas Department of Public Safety or any other government agency. Practice questions are written to reflect official driver handbooks but are not the official test questions. Always confirm current requirements with your state’s licensing agency.