Delaware Learner’s Permit Requirements

In Delaware, the path to becoming a fully licensed driver begins with the learner’s permit. Whether you're a teenager eager to start driving or a parent guiding your teen, understanding the learner’s permit process is essential. Delaware follows a Graduated Driver License (GDL) system designed to gradually increase driving responsibility under supervised conditions.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a Delaware Level One Learner’s Permit, you must:

Be at least 16 years old and under 18 years old
Have successfully completed a Delaware-approved driver education course
Be sponsored by a parent, legal guardian, or court-appointed custodian who signs the application
Provide proof of identity, legal presence, Social Security number, and Delaware residency

Applicants must not have had their driving privileges revoked in any state or territory.

For details on acceptable documents, refer to What to Bring to the DMV for a Learner’s Permit in Delaware.

The Application Process

Schedule an appointment at a Delaware DMV office.
Bring required documents and the signed Affidavit of Residency and Sponsorship.
Pass a vision screening.
Complete a knowledge exam, which can be waived if you passed it as part of your driver education course.

Make sure to study road signs and traffic rules, which are covered in the Delaware Learner’s Permit Practice Test.

Permit Restrictions

The Level One Learner’s Permit comes with strict conditions for the first 12 months:

First 6 months: You must drive only under supervision of a licensed adult (at least 25 years old) with 5+ years of experience.
Next 6 months: You may drive unsupervised between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., but still require supervision outside these hours unless going to/from work, church, or school functions.
No passengers other than an adult supervisor and one additional person, unless passengers are immediate family.
All occupants must wear seat belts.
Use of electronic devices while driving is strictly prohibited.

Breaking these rules can lead to penalties. Learn more at Legal Penalties for Violating Permit Rules in Delaware.

Graduated Driver License Program

Delaware’s GDL program ensures novice drivers build experience safely. The Level One Learner’s Permit is the first stage, leading to an intermediate license upon successful completion of all requirements.

Read the full Delaware GDL Program Overview for an in-depth explanation of each phase.

Additional Considerations

If you're homeschooled, special provisions apply. See Homeschooling and the Delaware Learner’s Permit.
Parents play a crucial role in supervising and coaching teen drivers. Refer to Parent’s Guide to Teen Driving in Delaware.
Be aware of potential pitfalls in the application process. Here are the Common Reasons Learner’s Permit Applications Get Denied in Delaware.

By following the correct steps and understanding your responsibilities, getting your Delaware learner’s permit can be a smooth and empowering experience.

Delaware Learner’s Permit Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a Delaware Level One Learner’s Permit, you must:

Be at least 16 years old and under 18 years old

Have successfully completed a Delaware-approved driver education course

Be sponsored by a parent, legal guardian, or court-appointed custodian who signs the application

Provide proof of identity, legal presence, Social Security number, and Delaware residency

Applicants must not have had their driving privileges revoked in any state or territory.

The Application Process

Schedule an appointment at a Delaware DMV office.

Bring required documents and the signed Affidavit of Residency and Sponsorship.

Pass a vision screening.

Complete a knowledge exam, which can be waived if you passed it as part of your driver education course.

Make sure to study road signs and traffic rules, which are covered in the Delaware Learner’s Permit Practice Test.

Permit Restrictions

The Level One Learner’s Permit comes with strict conditions for the first 12 months:

First 6 months: You must drive only under supervision of a licensed adult (at least 25 years old) with 5+ years of experience.

Next 6 months: You may drive unsupervised between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., but still require supervision outside these hours unless going to/from work, church, or school functions.

No passengers other than an adult supervisor and one additional person, unless passengers are immediate family.

All occupants must wear seat belts.

Use of electronic devices while driving is strictly prohibited.

Additional Considerations

By following the correct steps and understanding your responsibilities, getting your Delaware learner’s permit can be a smooth and empowering experience.