Getting a Delaware learner's permit
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.
Pass a certified Delaware driver education course and get the Blue/White certificate.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Bring your sponsor (usually a parent) to sign your application in front of a DMV employee.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Bring proof of identity, Social Security number and two proofs of Delaware residency (waived if your sponsor lives with you).
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pay the $50 Class D fee and pass the eye screening.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Drive only with a supervisor for the first six months and log 50 hours, including 10 at night.
Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Follow the passenger and phone rules until the permit converts to a license after 12 months.
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
- Minimum age for a learner's permit
- 16. Applicants under 18 (or under 22 with an active IEP) join the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- 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
- Sponsor (parental consent)
- Every GDL application must be signed by a sponsor, usually a parent or legal guardian, in front of a DMV employee. The sponsor shares liability and can withdraw consent.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- How long the permit is valid
- 12 months from the date it is issued (Class D). If you don't pass the road test within that time, you reapply and retest.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- GDL length (under 18)
- 12 months. The Level One permit turns into a Class D license automatically after a full 12 months of valid driving.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Level One permit restrictions
- Supervised at all times for the first 6 months. Only the supervisor and one other passenger (immediate family exempt). No phones or texting devices. Everyone belted.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Who can supervise a teen
- A licensed parent, guardian or sponsor-approved driver who is at least 25 and has held a Class D license for 5 years, seated in the front.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- After the first 6 months
- Teens may drive alone from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. From 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. they need a supervisor, except going straight to or from work, school or church activities.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- New drivers 18 and older
- GDL is optional at 18 and older. Adults who skip it take the eye, knowledge and road exams at the DMV and need no sponsor.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Adult permit rules
- Drive only with a licensed driver over 21 sitting beside you, and carry no more than 2 other passengers.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Knowledge test questions
- 32 questions on road signs and rules of the road, all drawn from the Delaware Driver Manual.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Passing score
- 26 of 32 correct (about 81%).Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Documents to bring
- One primary and one secondary identity document, proof of Social Security number (if eligible), two proofs of Delaware residency, and legal-presence papers for non-citizens.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Originals only
- Documents must be originals or certified copies. Photocopies, expired or altered documents are refused.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
- REAL ID documents
- Original documents proving identity and legal presence, Social Security number, and Delaware residence. Existing holders do this once, at renewal.Source: dmv.de.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- What new residents bring
- Your out-of-state license (or a current certified driving record), proof of citizenship or legal presence, proof of Social Security number and two proofs of Delaware residency.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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