How to Get Your Driver's License in Delaware
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Delaware. Delaware uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 17.
GDL Stages in Delaware
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Complete approved driver education course
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 25 or older with 5+ years experience
Intermediate License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
- Pass road skills test
- Certified 50 hours of supervised driving including 10 at night
Restrictions
- No driving between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- No more than 1 passenger under 18 unless immediate family
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Hold intermediate license for 6 months with clean record
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. during the intermediate stage.
- Only 1 non-family passenger under 18 is allowed.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions are removed when the driver turns 17 and has a clean record during the intermediate period.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to GDL restrictions and may apply directly for a full license.
Delaware-Specific Information
Delaware has one of the earliest nighttime curfews in the country, starting at 10 p.m. The state also requires the supervising driver to be at least 25 years old with 5 years of driving experience, among the strictest supervisor requirements nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 17 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Delaware.
Delaware uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. during the intermediate stage.
- Only 1 non-family passenger under 18 is allowed.
Adults age 18 and older in Delaware can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to GDL restrictions and may apply directly for a full license.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Delaware learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Delaware.
Delaware drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles website for the most current information.