Minimum Driving Age
In Delaware, individuals can obtain a Level 1 Learner’s Permit at 16 years old. To qualify, applicants must:
- Successfully complete a state-approved driver education course
- Pass a vision screening and knowledge test
- Have parental or guardian consent if under 18
Learner’s Permit Rules
First 6 Months:
- Must be supervised by a licensed adult aged 25 or older with at least 5 years of driving experience
- Supervisor must be seated in the front passenger seat
- No passengers other than the supervisor and one additional passenger (unless family members)
- Must complete 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night
Second 6 Months:
- Unsupervised driving permitted between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
- Driving between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. requires supervision, unless traveling for work, school, or religious activities
- Only one non-family passenger allowed
Restrictions:
- Use of cell phones or electronic devices while driving is prohibited, even hands-free
- All occupants must wear seat belts or appropriate child restraints
Violations can result in fines, suspension of driving privileges, and extension of the permit period.
Sources – Delaware DMV Teen Graduated Driver’s License Requirements, Delaware Code Online
License Types
Delaware offers the following license types:
- Class D: Standard license for passenger vehicles
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): For operating large trucks and buses, with classifications A, B, and C
- Motorcycle Endorsement: For operating motorcycles
Required Documents for Driving
To apply for a driver’s license or REAL ID in Delaware, you must provide:
- Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
- Social Security card or proof of ineligibility
- Two documents verifying Delaware residency
- Proof of legal presence in the United States
Source – Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles
Seatbelt and Car Seat Laws
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers at all times
- Children under 12 years old and under 5 feet 5 inches tall must ride in the back seat
- Children under 2 years or under 30 pounds must be in a rear-facing car seat
- Children aged 2 to 4 years or under 40 pounds must be in a forward-facing car seat
- Children aged 4 to 7 years or under 65 pounds must use a booster seat
- Children over 8 years or over 65 pounds must use a seatbelt
Cell Phone and Distracted Driving Rules
- Use of handheld devices while driving is prohibited for all drivers
- Texting while driving is banned for all drivers
- Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using any mobile devices, including hands-free accessories
Violations are considered primary offenses and can result in fines and points on your driving record.
Source – Delaware Driving Laws
DUI/DWI Thresholds and Penalties
It is illegal to drive with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of:
- 0.08% or more for drivers 21 and older
- 0.02% or more for drivers under 21 (zero-tolerance policy)
First DUI conviction penalties may include:
- Fines ranging from $500 to $1,500
- License suspension for up to 24 months
- Mandatory participation in an alcohol education program
- Possible jail time
Source – Delaware Driving Laws: Regulations, Penalties, and Safety Programs
Speed Limits
Delaware default speed limits:
- 65 mph on rural interstates
- 55 mph on urban interstates
- 25 mph in residential areas
- 20 mph in school zones
Always follow posted signage, as some zones have specific limits.
Source – GHSA: Delaware State Laws
Road Rage and Reckless Driving Laws
Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle with willful disregard for safety. Penalties include:
- Fines up to $300
- Possible jail time up to 30 days
- Points added to your driving record
Source – Delaware Driving Laws: Regulations, Penalties, and Safety Programs
Points System
Delaware uses a point system for tracking violations:
- Points range from 2 to 6, depending on the severity of the offense
- Accumulating 8 points or more may lead to license suspension
- Points remain on the driving record for 24 months from the date of assessment
Source – USCIS Guide: Traffic Violations and Points on License in Delaware
Insurance Requirements
Delaware’s minimum liability insurance coverage is:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $10,000 for property damage per accident
- $15,000 Personal Injury Protection (PIP) per person, $30,000 per accident
Driving without insurance can result in fines up to $2,000 and license suspension.
Source – Delaware DMV Teen Graduated Driver’s License Requirements
Renewal Frequency and Testing
- Driver’s licenses must be renewed every 8 years
- Vision screening is required at each renewal
- Licenses can be renewed online, in person, or by mail, depending on eligibility
Source – GHSA: Delaware State Laws
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