Before anything else, know the ground rules: who needs a Delaware license, who is exempt, and what stops the DMV from issuing one. Delaware also issues two versions of the card—federally compliant or not—which matters if you want to fly or enter federal buildings with it.
Know the rule
If you drive a motor vehicle on public roadways in Delaware, you must have a driver license and carry it with you.
Handbook p. 17 ↗Deadline to get a Delaware driver license after becoming a bona fide Delaware resident
Handbook p. 17 ↗You don't need a Delaware license if you are:
- Temporarily driving a road roller, road machinery, or a farm tractor or implement of husbandry on a highway
- A non-resident over age 16 licensed in your home state or country, with the license in your possession
- An active-duty U.S. Armed Forces member (or dependent) with a valid license from your state of domicile
The DMV may not issue you a license if:
- You are under the required age for that license or endorsement
- You are under 18 and haven't completed a Delaware Dept. of Education approved driver education course
- You are under 18 without the required consent signature (usually a parent, custodian or guardian)
- Your license or driving privileges are suspended or revoked in any jurisdiction
- You are not a bona fide resident of Delaware
- You do not understand road signs in English
- You are physically or mentally unable to drive safely
- You are determined to be a habitual drunkard or addicted to narcotic drugs
- You can't prove legal presence in the U.S. and don't meet the requirements for a DPC
- Your personal information differs from other agencies' records (names, birth dates, SSNs, addresses)
Know the rule
If you are subject to loss of consciousness from a disease of the central nervous system, you must give the DMV written certification from your licensed practitioner that the condition is under sufficient control for you to drive safely.
Handbook p. 18 ↗Know the rule
You must apply in person at a DMV office in Delaware City, Dover, Georgetown or Wilmington.
Handbook p. 18 ↗Compliant DL/ID
A federally compliant license or ID card, marked with a gold star in the upper right corner. It can be used for domestic flights, entering federal facilities and other federal purposes.
Handbook p. 16 ↗Non-compliant DL/ID
A card printed with 'Not for Federal ID' in the upper margin. You can convert it to compliant at any DMV by bringing the required documents and paying the $20.00 replacement fee.
Handbook p. 16 ↗Know the rule
Existing license holders show their original source documents once to revalidate. You only show them again if you change information on your card (such as your name) or your immigration documents expire.
Handbook p. 16 ↗Put it into practice
You move to Wilmington from Ohio on March 1. You may keep driving on your valid Ohio license for now, but within 60 days of becoming a resident you must apply in person for a Delaware license—and bring the documents that prove who you are and where you live.