ID Cards vs Driver’s Licenses in Delaware
In Delaware, both state-issued ID cards and driver’s licenses serve as official forms of identification. However, they differ significantly in purpose, eligibility, and legal authority. Understanding these distinctions is essential whether you're a non-driver seeking valid ID or preparing to drive legally in the state.
Purpose and Legal Authority
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Driver’s License: Grants the legal authority to operate motor vehicles on public roads. It also serves as a primary form of identification.
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State ID Card: Serves solely as an identification document for non-drivers. It does not confer any driving privileges.
Eligibility Requirements
Driver’s License
To obtain a Delaware driver’s license, applicants must:
- Be at least 16 years old (for a Level One Learner’s Permit).
- Provide proof of identity, lawful U.S. presence, Social Security number, and Delaware residency.
- Pass vision, knowledge, and road skills tests.
- Pay a $40 fee for an 8-year license.
For more details, refer to the Delaware License Application Checklist.
State ID Card
Applicants for a Delaware state ID card must:
- Be a Delaware resident.
- Not hold a valid Delaware driver’s license.
- Provide proof of identity, lawful U.S. presence, Social Security number, and Delaware residency.
- Pay a $40 fee for an 8-year ID card.
REAL ID Compliance
Both Delaware driver’s licenses and ID cards can be issued as REAL ID-compliant documents, indicated by a star in the upper right corner. As of May 7, 2025, a REAL ID or another federally accepted form of identification (e.g., U.S. passport) is required to:
- Board domestic flights.
- Enter federal facilities and military bases.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant document, applicants must present additional documentation, including:
- Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport).
- Proof of Social Security number.
- Two proofs of Delaware residency (e.g., utility bills, lease agreements).
For a comprehensive guide, visit the Delaware REAL ID vs Standard License resource.
Usage Scenarios
| Scenario | Driver’s License | State ID Card |
|---|---|---|
| Driving a motor vehicle | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Proof of age (e.g., purchasing alcohol) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Boarding domestic flights (with REAL ID) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Voting in elections | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Opening bank accounts | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Application Process
Both applications must be completed in person at a Delaware DMV office. Applicants should bring all required documents to avoid delays. For a detailed list of what to bring, see Required Documents for a Delaware License.
Additional Resources
- How to Get a Driver’s License in Delaware
- Delaware Driver’s License Fees & Costs
- Online Services for Delaware Driver’s License
- Delaware Driver’s License Photo Requirements
For official information, visit the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.