Delaware Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program Overview
Delaware's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program is designed to help novice drivers gain experience under less risky conditions. It consists of three stages: the Level One Learner's Permit, the Intermediate License, and the Full Class D License. Each stage has specific requirements and restrictions to ensure the safety of young drivers.
Level One Learner's Permit
Eligibility
- Age: Must be at least 16 years old and under 18. Individuals under 22 with an active Individualized Education Program (IEP) are also eligible.
- Driver Education: Completion of a certified Delaware Driver Education Course is required. Out-of-state courses must be approved by the Delaware Department of Education.
- Parental Consent: A parent or sponsor must sign the permit application.
First 6 Months: Supervised Driving Only
- Supervision: Driving must be supervised at all times by a licensed parent, guardian, or adult at least 25 years old with five years of driving experience and approved by the sponsor.
- Passenger Restrictions: Only one additional passenger besides the supervisor is allowed.
- Driving Hours: No driving between 10 PM and 6 AM unless accompanied by a supervisor.
- Seat Belts: All occupants under 18 must wear seat belts or appropriate child restraints.
- Practice Hours: A minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, must be certified by the sponsor.
Second 6 Months: Limited Unsupervised Driving
- Unsupervised Driving: Allowed between 6 AM and 10 PM.
- Supervised Driving: Required between 10 PM and 6 AM, except when traveling to or from church, work, or school activities.
- Passenger Restrictions: Only one passenger unless accompanied by a supervisor.
For more details, refer to the Delaware Learner’s Permit Requirements.
Intermediate License
After completing 12 months with a Level One Learner's Permit without any suspensions or revocations, drivers are eligible for an Intermediate License.
- Unsupervised Driving: Permitted between 6 AM and 10 PM.
- Supervised Driving: Required between 10 PM and 6 AM, with exceptions for church, work, or school activities.
- Passenger Restrictions: Only one passenger unless accompanied by a supervisor.
Learn more about the differences between a Delaware Learner’s Permit vs. Intermediate License.
Full Class D License
- Eligibility: Must be at least 17 years old and have completed 12 months of valid driving with a Level One Learner's Permit.
- Unrestricted Driving: No supervision or passenger restrictions apply.
For a complete guide on obtaining a driver's license, visit How to Get a Driver’s License in Delaware.
Parental Involvement
Parental supervision is a critical component of the GDL program. Parents or sponsors are responsible for:
- Supervising driving during the learner's permit phase.
- Certifying the completion of required driving hours.
- Ensuring adherence to all GDL restrictions.
For resources and guidance, see the Parent’s Guide to Teen Driving in Delaware.