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How to get a driver's license in Delaware as an immigrant

Everything a new arrival in Delaware needs to know, from driving on a foreign license to the documents the DMV accepts from non-citizens. Facts are quoted from official sources.

Quick answers

Drive on a foreign license?
Non-residents over 16 with a valid home-country license may drive in Delaware while carrying that license.
Deadline after moving
60 days after becoming a Delaware resident
License exchange without tests
3 countries
License without immigration status
Yes
No SSN?
Provide your SSN if eligible; an SSA ineligibility letter is accepted (not for a REAL ID card). DPC applicants may use an ITIN.

Driving on a foreign license

Non-residents over 16 with a valid home-country license may drive in Delaware while carrying that license. Deadline after moving: 60 days after becoming a Delaware resident.

Exchanging a foreign license

  • Germany
  • Taiwan
  • France

Reciprocity covers Class D licenses only (no endorsements); knowledge and road exams are waived. Foreign licenses may be retained.

If your country is not on the list

All other foreign-licensed drivers must pass both the knowledge and road exams (permit first, then at least 10 days before the road test).

Delaware has a reciprocity agreement with Germany, Taiwan (Republic of China) and France dmv.de.gov

Documents for non-citizens

Examples of accepted immigration documents:

  • Valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)
  • Employment Authorization Card (I-688A, I-688B, I-766)
  • I-94 in a valid foreign passport
  • I-551 stamp in a valid foreign passport
  • Refugee Travel Document (I-571)
  • Permanent Resident Re-Entry Permit (I-327)

License validity: Expiration cannot exceed the authorized stay; 'indefinite' or 'duration of status' gets a one-year license.

License regardless of immigration status

Driving Privilege Card (DPC) for Delaware residents who cannot prove legal presence: needs SBI fingerprints, a Division of Revenue Certification of Filing Compliance showing Delaware taxes filed for the previous two years (ITIN or SSN), a valid foreign passport or consular ID and two residency proofs. Class D only, valid 4 years, driving only and not valid for identification; only guaranteed within Delaware.

The expiration date on driver licenses and identification cards must not exceed the period dmv.de.gov

Social Security number

Provide your SSN if eligible; an SSA ineligibility letter is accepted (not for a REAL ID card). DPC applicants may use an ITIN.

Each applicant must provide their social security number, if eligible. dmv.de.gov

Proof of residency

Two proofs from separate sources (utility bill, bank record, lease, insurance, employment records, USPS mail postmarked within 60 days) showing a physical address.

Please provide TWO of the following for proof of Delaware residency: dmv.de.gov

Step by step

  1. Gather identity, legal presence, SSN (or SSA ineligibility letter) and two Delaware residency proofs; DPC applicants instead get SBI fingerprints and a Division of Revenue tax filing certification.
  2. German, Taiwanese or French Class D license holders: apply for a transfer; knowledge and road exams are waived.
  3. Others: pass the eye screening and knowledge exam to receive a learner's permit (valid 12 months; DPC permit valid 6 months).
  4. Wait at least 10 days after passing the knowledge exam.
  5. Schedule and pass the road skills exam.
  6. Receive the Delaware license (or DPC, valid 4 years).

Prepare for the knowledge test

Checked against official sources on October 27, 2026. Rules change: confirm with the DMV before your visit. This is not legal advice.