How to Renew Your Delaware Driver’s License

Renewing your Delaware driver’s license is a straightforward process, whether you choose to do it online or in person. Here's everything you need to know to ensure a smooth renewal experience.

When to Renew

• Validity Period: Delaware driver’s licenses are valid for 8 years.
• Renewal Window: You can renew your license up to 180 days (6 months) before it expires.
• Renewal Reminder: The DMV typically sends a reminder 60 days before your license expires. However, it's your responsibility to renew on time, even if you don't receive a notice.
• Late Renewal: Renewing after the expiration date incurs a $10 late fee. Driving with an expired license is a misdemeanor offense, punishable by fines and possible jail time.

Renewal Options

Online Renewal

You may be eligible to renew your license online if:

• You are a U.S. citizen.
• Your license is a Class D (non-commercial) license.
• Your license is within 6 months of expiration.
• Your personal information is up-to-date with the DMV.
• You did not renew online during your last renewal.
• Your license is not suspended or revoked.

Steps to Renew Online:

1. Create or Log In to MyDMV Account: Visit Delaware DMV's website and create or log in to your MyDMV account.
2. Verify Information: Ensure all your personal information is correct.
3. Pay the Renewal Fee: The standard renewal fee is $40.
4. Print Temporary License: After completing the process, you'll receive a temporary paper license to print.
5. Receive Physical License: Your new license will be mailed to your residential address within two weeks.

Note: Online renewal is not available for commercial driver licenses (CDLs), graduated driver licenses (GDLs), or if you used a self-service kiosk during your last renewal.

In-Person Renewal

You must renew in person if:

• You are not a U.S. citizen.
• You need to update personal information (e.g., name or address change).
• You are upgrading to a REAL ID.
• You renewed online during your last renewal.
• Your license is suspended or revoked.

Steps to Renew In Person:

1. Visit a DMV Office: Go to any Delaware DMV location. Appointments are not required.
2. Complete Application: Fill out the driver’s license renewal application form.
3. Provide Required Documents:
   • Current driver’s license.
   • Proof of Social Security Number (e.g., Social Security card, W-2 form).
   • Two proofs of Delaware residency (e.g., utility bills, bank statements).
   • Proof of legal presence in the U.S. (for non-citizens).
   • If applicable, documents for name change (e.g., marriage certificate).
4. Pass Vision Test: A vision screening is required.
5. Pay the Renewal Fee: The standard fee is $40. Additional fees apply for endorsements:
   • Motorcycle endorsement: $12.
   • Taxi endorsement: Additional fee varies.
6. Receive Temporary License: You'll get a temporary paper license.
7. Receive Physical License: Your new license will be mailed to your residential address within two weeks.

Renewal by Mail

Renewal by mail is available only for:

• Active-duty military members stationed out of state.
• Department of Defense employees and their dependents stationed out of state.

Steps to Renew by Mail:

1. Prepare Required Documents:

   • Full name, date of birth, and Social Security Number.
   • Driver’s license number (if known).
   • Current Delaware address to appear on the new license.
   • Mailing address.
   • Contact phone number or email address.
   • Copy of military assignment orders or military ID.
   • Signature.
   • Check or money order for $40, payable to DMV.
   • Self-addressed, stamped envelope.

2. Mail Documents:

   • Regular Mail:

     Division of Motor Vehicles
     Attn: Driver Services Department
     P.O. Box 698
     Dover, DE 19903
     

   • Overnight Delivery (FedEx or UPS):

     Division of Motor Vehicles
     Attn: Driver Services Department
     303 Transportation Circle
     Dover, DE 19901
     

Upgrading to a REAL ID

Starting May 3, 2023, a standard driver’s license will not be accepted for federal identification purposes, such as boarding domestic flights or entering federal facilities. To upgrade to a REAL ID, you must visit a DMV office in person and provide:

• Proof of Identity/Legal Presence: Valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, or other approved documents.
• Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or pay stub with full SSN.
• Two Proofs of Delaware Residency: Utility bills, bank statements, or rental agreements.
• Proof of Name Change (if applicable): Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Ensure all documents are original or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted.

Fees

• Standard License Renewal: $40
• Motorcycle Endorsement: Additional $12
• Late Renewal Fee: $10
• Returned Check Fee: $25 (if applicable)

Accepted payment methods include cash, check, money order, and most major credit/debit cards.

Additional Resources

For more information on Delaware driver’s licenses and related topics, consider the following resources:

• Delaware License Application Checklist
• Delaware Driver’s License Photo Requirements
• Online Services for Delaware Driver’s License
• How to Check Your Delaware License Status
• Delaware Driver’s License Fees & Costs

For the most current information and to access online services, visit the Delaware DMV official website.