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  1. Home
  2. Delaware
  3. Provisional Licenses in Delaware

Provisional Licenses in Delaware

Delaware's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program is designed to help teen drivers gain experience under less risky conditions. This structured approach ensures that young drivers develop the necessary skills and maturity before obtaining full driving privileges.

The Three Stages of Delaware's GDL Program

1. Level One Learner's Permit

  • Eligibility: Teens can apply at age 16.
  • Requirements:
    • Completion of a driver education course approved by the Delaware Department of Education.
    • A sponsor (usually a parent or guardian) must sign the application in person at the DMV.
    • Pass a vision screening.
  • Restrictions:
    • Must be supervised by a licensed driver aged 25 or older with at least five years of driving experience.
    • No driving between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., except for school, work, or church activities.
    • Only one passenger other than immediate family members is allowed.
    • No use of cell phones or other electronic devices while driving, even hands-free.
    • All occupants must wear seat belts.
  • Duration: The permit is valid for 12 months. After six months and completion of 50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night), the teen may drive unsupervised during permitted hours.

2. Intermediate License

  • Eligibility: After holding the Level One Learner's Permit for 12 months without any violations or suspensions.
  • Privileges:
    • Unsupervised driving between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
    • Supervised driving outside these hours for school, work, or church activities.
  • Restrictions:
    • Only one passenger other than immediate family members is allowed.
    • No use of cell phones or other electronic devices while driving.
    • All occupants must wear seat belts.
  • Duration: This stage lasts until the driver turns 17 or has held the license for six months without any violations.

3. Full Class D License

  • Eligibility: At age 17, provided the driver has completed the Intermediate License stage without any violations or suspensions.
  • Privileges: Full driving privileges without the restrictions of the previous stages.

Penalties for Violations

Violating the terms of the GDL program can result in:

  • First Offense: A two-month suspension of driving privileges.
  • Subsequent Offenses: A four-month suspension for each additional violation.
  • Impact on Progression: Any suspension or violation resets the clock, delaying the progression to the next stage.

Role of the Sponsor

The sponsor plays a crucial role in the GDL program:

  • Must sign the application in person at the DMV.
  • Has the authority to withdraw their endorsement at any time, which will result in the suspension of the teen's driving privileges.
  • Responsible for ensuring the teen completes the required supervised driving hours.

For more detailed information on the requirements and responsibilities associated with the learner's permit, refer to the Delaware Learner’s Permit Requirements.

Additional Resources

  • Delaware GDL Program Overview
  • Parent’s Guide to Teen Driving in Delaware
  • What to Bring to the DMV for a Learner’s Permit in Delaware
  • How to Get a Driver’s License in Delaware
  • Delaware Learner’s Permit vs. Intermediate License

For official information and updates, visit the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles.

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Best DMV Tests is an independent, privately owned platform and is not affiliated with any government agency. Our goal is to provide helpful, accurate information to support your test preparation. For official requirements and the most up-to-date guidance, please consult your local DMV or licensing authority.