Required Documents for a Delaware License

Obtaining a Delaware driver's license requires presenting specific documents to verify your identity, legal presence, Social Security number, and Delaware residency. Whether you're applying for a standard license or a REAL ID-compliant license, it's essential to have the correct documentation to ensure a smooth application process.

Proof of Identity and Legal Presence

You must provide one of the following original or certified documents:

U.S. Birth Certificate: Issued by a state vital statistics office with a raised seal. Hospital-issued certificates are not accepted.
Valid U.S. Passport: Must be unexpired.
Certificate of Naturalization: Forms N-550, N-570, or N-578.
Certificate of Citizenship: Forms N-560, N-561, or N-645.
Consular Report of Birth Abroad: Issued by the U.S. Department of State.
Valid Foreign Passport with Appropriate Immigration Documents: Must include a valid visa and I-94 form.

Note: All documents must be original or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted.

Proof of Social Security Number (SSN)

Provide one of the following documents displaying your full SSN:

Social Security Card
W-2 Form
SSA-1099 or Non-SSA-1099 Form
Pay Stub: Must include your full SSN.
Official Document from the SSA: Must contain your full SSN.

Medicare or Medicaid cards are not acceptable.

If you are not eligible for an SSN, you must provide an ineligibility letter from the SSA.

Proof of Delaware Residency

You need to present two documents from separate sources, dated within the last 60 days, showing your name and physical Delaware address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable):

Utility Bills: Electric, water, gas, etc.
Bank Statements
Credit Card Statements
Lease or Rental Agreements
Mortgage Documents
Insurance Policies: Auto or life insurance.
Employment Records
Voter Registration Card
Postmarked Mail: Must be delivered by the U.S. Postal Service.

Each document must be from a different source.

Proof of Legal Name Change (If Applicable)

If your current legal name differs from the name on your identity documents, you must provide all relevant documents to establish the name change:

Marriage Certificate: Must be government-issued with a raised seal.
Divorce Decree: Must state the name change.
Court-Ordered Name Change Document

Ensure that your name is updated with the SSA before visiting the DMV.

Additional Requirements for Minors (Under 18)

Applicants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian and provide:

Birth Certificate: To verify parental relationship.
Blue Certificate: Issued upon completion of a driver education course.
Parental/Guardian Identification: Valid ID of the accompanying adult.

The parent or guardian must sign the application in the presence of a DMV representative.

REAL ID Compliance

Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or identification card is required to:

Board domestic flights.
Enter federal facilities and military bases.

To obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, you must provide the documents listed above. REAL IDs are marked with a gold or black star in the upper right corner.

For more information on REAL ID requirements, visit the Delaware DMV REAL ID page.

Transferring an Out-of-State License

If you're moving to Delaware, you must apply for a Delaware driver's license within 60 days of establishing residency. You will need to:

Surrender Your Out-of-State License: Or provide a certified driving record.
Provide Proof of Identity and Legal Presence
Provide Proof of SSN
Provide Two Proofs of Delaware Residency

For detailed steps, refer to the How to Get a Delaware License if Moving from Another State guide.

Additional Resources

Ensure all your documents are in order before visiting the DMV to facilitate a smooth application process.