How to Get Your Delaware Learner’s Permit
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Getting your learner permit in Delaware follows a straightforward path once you understand the steps. This guide explains who is eligible, the documents you should bring, what the knowledge test involves, and what comes next after you pass, all managed through the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Because requirements and fees can be updated from time to time, use this as a general overview and confirm the current details with your local Delaware DMV office before your visit.
16
Permit age
30
Test questions
23 (77%)
To pass
DMV
Agency
Step by step: getting your Delaware permit
Step 1: Confirm your age and eligibility
In Delaware you can generally begin the learner permit process at age 16. Younger applicants are part of the state graduated licensing system, which builds in driver education and supervised practice. Before testing, check whether you need to enroll in or complete an approved driver-education course for your age group.
Step 2: Gather your documents
Bring documents that establish your identity, your Social Security number, and your Delaware residency. If you are a minor, a parent or guardian usually must sign on your behalf. Preparing these in advance keeps your visit short and avoids a return trip.
- Proof of identity, such as a birth certificate or passport
- Proof of your Social Security number
- Proof of Delaware residency
- Parent or guardian consent if you are under 18
Step 3: Complete required driver education
Many Delaware applicants must finish an approved driver-education course before they are eligible to take the knowledge test. The course covers traffic laws, defensive-driving skills, and the responsibilities of being a licensed driver. Confirm the specific course requirement that applies to your age so you can schedule it well ahead of testing.
Step 4: Pass the knowledge test
Take the 30-question written knowledge test and score at least 23 correct, which is about 77 percent, to pass. Practicing beforehand with realistic questions makes the format familiar so you can focus on the material instead of the layout of the exam.
Step 5: Complete the vision screening and pay the fee
You will take a brief vision screening to confirm your eyesight meets the standard for driving, then pay the permit fee. Once your paperwork is complete, your learner permit is issued and you can begin supervised driving practice.
After you pass the knowledge test
With your Delaware learner permit, you can practice driving while supervised by an eligible licensed adult. The state generally requires a holding period and a set amount of supervised experience, often including a share of nighttime driving, before you can move on to the road skills test. Treat this stage as genuine preparation: drive in different weather, on different road types, and at different times of day so that nothing on the road test feels unfamiliar.
Tips for Delaware new drivers
Keep your permit with you whenever you are behind the wheel, and follow any nighttime and passenger restrictions that apply during the early stages of licensing. Ask your supervising driver to point out habits you can improve, and practice the maneuvers that examiners watch closely, such as parking, lane changes, and yielding at intersections. Building careful habits now pays off long after you earn your full license.
Official Delaware resources
FAQ
How old do I have to be to apply for a Delaware permit?
You can generally begin the process at age 16. Confirm the current requirements with the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.
What documents do I need to bring?
Plan to bring proof of identity, your Social Security number, proof of Delaware residency, and parental consent if you are under 18.
Do I have to take a test to get the permit?
Yes. You must pass a 30-question written knowledge test and a vision screening to receive your learner permit.
Is there a fee for the permit?
Yes, a permit fee applies. Check the current amount with your local Delaware DMV office before you go.