How to Get Your Delaware Learner's Permit (DMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a GDL Level One Learner's Permit through the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a GDL Level One Learner's Permit in Delaware, you must be at least 16 and apply in person at the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Delaware's DMV knowledge test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving from the Delaware Driver Manual. Teens complete driver education and a Level 1/Level 2 graduated licensing program before full privileges.
Documents to bring to the DMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity and legal presence (such as a certified birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, or acceptable immigration document)
- Proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub showing your full SSN)
- Two proofs of Delaware residency (such as utility bills, bank statements, or a lease); this may be waived if your sponsor is a licensed Delaware driver at the same address
- Sponsor (parent, legal guardian, or approved adult) signature on the application for applicants under 18
- Delaware Driver Education Certificate (Blue/White Certificate) showing completion of a certified Delaware driver education course
The knowledge test
In Delaware, the knowledge test is taken in person. For teens under 18, the written knowledge test and road test are administered by a certified driver education instructor during the required driver education course, not online; the DMV performs a vision screening at the office.
Rehearse with our free Delaware practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Delaware Practice Test →Fees
The DMV charges $40.00 Class D license fee at application for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Delaware uses a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. Applicants age 16 or older complete a certified driver education course, then obtain a Level One Learner's Permit that requires supervised driving. During the first six months the permit holder logs practice hours and drives only with an approved adult supervisor; after six months of an unblemished record, unsupervised driving is allowed between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. with passenger limits. After 12 months of valid Level One driving experience and at age 17 or older, the permit converts to a Class D driver license.
Delaware permit FAQ
How many questions is the Delaware permit test?
The DMV knowledge test has about 32 questions, and you need 26 of 32 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Delaware permit test online?
In Delaware, the knowledge test is taken in person. For teens under 18, the written knowledge test and road test are administered by a certified driver education instructor during the required driver education course, not online; the DMV performs a vision screening at the office.
What do I need to bring to the DMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Delaware residency, plus anything required for a GDL Level One Learner's Permit. Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Delaware permit?
You can apply for a GDL Level One Learner's Permit at 16 in Delaware, provided you meet the DMV's other requirements.
How much does a Delaware permit cost?
The DMV charges $40.00 Class D license fee at application for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the DMV.
What happens if I fail the Delaware permit test?
If you do not pass the knowledge test, you may retake it after a required waiting period, and additional attempts may involve a re-test fee. Teens who fail the driver education instructor's written or road test must retest through their driver education provider before certification.
Official sources: dmv.de.gov · dmv.de.gov