The Delaware permit test doesn’t have to be difficult. Simply follow this step-by-step guide and we will walk you the process of preparing for the permit test, receiving your permit, and finally earning your Class D drivers license.Passing the Delaware permit test and getting your Delaware learner’s permit is the first step toward obtaining your full, unrestricted driver’s license. Like many states, Delaware has a graduated license program (GDL), which separates the licensing process into three different stages. These steps are designed to gradually introduce you to the rules of the road and help you develop your driving skills over an extended period of time. You’ll gain the experience necessary to become a better driver.In Delaware, the GDL program consists of obtaining your:

  • Level One learner’s permit
  • Level One learner’s permit (with lessened restrictions)
  • Class D Operator’s license (full driver’s license)

In this guide, we will help you learn how to pass the Delaware permit test and eventually go on to receive your full, unrestricted license. Let’s get started!

Understand The Requirements

The state of Delaware requires that you pass an approved driver’s education course before you can apply for your level One learner’s permit. When you are 16 years old and have successfully passed the course, you can apply. The permit will allow you to practice driving with a licensed driver age 25 or older in the passenger seat.

To get your permit, you must pass a written exam, more commonly known as the permit test, which checks your knowledge of the rules of the road as well as various traffic signs and signals.

The Delaware DMV Permit Test — What Your Need to Know

So, it’s time for you get your learner’s permit and finally get behind the wheel.  This is an important milestone as it represents one step closer towards getting your driver’s license. The only thing standing in your way is the Delaware permit test?  Think you’re ready?

Before you can become a legally licensed driver, the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires you to pass a mandatory written test. More commonly known as the permit test, this exam was created to test your knowledge of the rules of road, various traffic signs, and motor vehicle laws specific to your state.

Study the Delaware Driver’s Manual

If you want to succeed at the exam, you will need to study hard. We provide a free copy of the Delaware Driver’s Handbook online, or you can visit the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to request a copy.

Ensure Your Success With DE DMV Practice Permit Tests

It’s natural to feel nervous at the thought of taking a test. Most people experience at least a little anxiety before sitting down for an exam.  With over 70% of test takers failing the exam every year, it’s important that you get your hands on the best study material available.

Our goal is to help you gain the knowledge and confidence you need pass your permit test.  With the study material on this page, you’ll have the head start needed to ensure you don’t face any surprises on test day.  Our powerful interactive Delaware practice permit test is an excellent way to start practicing while getting a feel for the practice test format.  Need a solid reference tool?  You’ll find a copy of the official Delaware Drivers Handbook here too.

Taking practice exams is a great way to make sure that you don’t waste your time and money failing a test you are not ready for. Our Delaware practice permit tests include much of the same material you will find on the actual test, and after taking it, you will feel more prepared.

Gather Your Materials and Visit Your Local DMV Office

When you feel ready to take the written exam, visit your local DMV office, bringing a few important items along with you:

  • Your certified birth certificate
  • Your social security card
  • Two items to prove your Delaware residency, such as a bank statement, utility bill or employment record
  • The blue certificate that shows you passed your driver’s education course
  • $40.00 in fees to cover both your learner’s permit and future license
  • A parent or guardian to sign as a sponsor for you

Try to relax and do your best on the exam. You’ve studied hard, and now is your time to shine. Once you pass your written exam, you will be required to take a vision test to ensure you can see well enough to drive safely. You will also need to make an appointment for the behind-the-wheel test, which you can take 10 days after the written exam.

Take the Road Test

Once you pass your written exam, you will be required to take a vision test to ensure you can see well enough to drive safely. You will also need to make an appointment for the behind-the-wheel test, which you can take 10 days after the written exam.

When you go to the DMV office to take your road test, be sure to bring:

  • A licensed parent or guardian
  • A registered vehicle and proof of insurance
  • Your level One learner’s permit

The Delaware Level One Learner’s Permit With Lessened Restrictions
While you have your level One learner’s permit, you must complete at least 50 hours of practice driving under the supervision of a licensed driver age 25 or older. Of those hours, 10 must take place at night.

When you are at least 16 and a half years old, have held your learner’s permit for six months and have finished your practice hours, you will be allowed to drive without supervision. However, there are still some restrictions you should be aware of:

  • You may not drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless you are going to and from a work, church or school-related function
  • You may not drive with more than one passenger unless they are family members
  • You may not drive without a seatbelt and neither may your passengers

Your Delaware Class D Operator’s Driver’s License

When you are 17 years old and have held your Level One learner’s permit for at least a year, your license will automatically convert to a Class D operator’s license and you will be able to drive without restriction. Enjoy your new found freedom as a fully licensed driver!

Additional Information

If you would like to skip driver’s education, you must wait until you are 18 years old to apply for your learner’s permit.