Getting a Driver’s License

This is the important information that you need to know about getting a driver’s license in Delaware.

• Do you need a driver’s license?
• Required documents (Delaware only)
• Locations
• How to get a driver’s license

Do you need a driver’s license?

• You can drive in the U.S. for up to 60 days with a driver’s license from another country.
• You must get a driver’s license within 60 days.
• If you do not have a license from another country, then you must get a license (from the state you live in) before you can drive.

Required documents

To get a license you will need the following documents:

• Passport (unexpired)
• F-1/F-2 Students:
  • I-20 (it must be valid for at least 60 days)
  • I-94 card
• J-1/J-2 Visa holders
  • DS-2019 or IAP-66
• Social Security Card (or Letter of Ineligibility)
  • If you do not have a Social Security Card, you may request a “Letter of Ineligibility” from the closest Social Security Administration Office:
    • 300 Big Elk Mall, Elkton, MD 21921 | (800) 325-0778
    • 920 West Basin Rd #200, New Castle, DE 19720 | (800) 772-1213
  • You must bring your I-20, passport, and I-94 card to the Social Security Office
• TWO documents that contain your address to prove Delaware residency. For example:
  • Utility Bills
  • Credit Card Statements
  • Auto Insurance policies
  • Bank Account Records
  • Rental Agreements
  • Other non-personal mail postmarked within the last 60 days
    • Note: Mail must have been delivered by the US Postal Service and be postmarked or received within the last 60 days; photocopies or printouts of bills will not be accepted. Non-business letters/cards will not be accepted. Each of the two proofs of residency must be from separate sources and must display the person’s physical address, not a P.O. box
    • If you do not have two proofs of Delaware residence yet, and would like the ELI to send a letter to you by mail, you can request it here:
      • Remember to bring the envelope with you when you go to the DMV

See other requirements on the DMV website >

DMV Locations

• Please visit the DMV website for the addresses of local Delaware DMV offices >
• See Pennsylvania DMV locations >
• See Maryland MVA locations >

How to get a driver’s license (Delaware only)

1. Go to one of the local DMV offices
2. Complete a driver’s license application.
3. Take an eye exam to test your vision.
4. Take the driver’s license examination. This includes a written test about driver laws and take a driving test on the road. See more information on the DMV website >

Learn more about obtaining a license in Pennsylvania >

Learn more about obtaining a license in Maryland >