DE Permit Practice Test

Based on the 2025 DE DMV Manual

Permit Practice Tests (360 questions)

Delaware Permit Test FAQ

Basic Eligibility Requirements

How old do I have to be to get my permit in Delaware?

You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a Level One Learner’s Permit in Delaware. This age applies to all first time permit applicants regardless of prior driving experience.

What documents do I need to bring when I apply for my permit?

To apply for a permit in Delaware you must bring:

  • Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport)
  • Social Security card
  • Two proofs of Delaware residency (showing you live in Delaware)
  • Parent or guardian consent form (if under 18)
  • Payment for the application fee
  • Proof of completed Driver Education course (if under 18)

If you’re applying for a REAL ID compliant license, additional documentation may be required. Check the Delaware DMV website for current accepted documents.

If I'm under 18 do my parents need to be involved in the permit application process?

Yes. If you’re under 18 a parent or legal guardian must:

  • Sign your permit application
  • Accept financial responsibility for you
  • Accompany you to the DMV when applying for your permit

How do I apply for a permit in Delaware?

The application process in Delaware is as follows:

  1. Fill out a Driver’s License application
  2. Gather the required documents (identity, residency, etc.)
  3. If under 18, complete a driver education course
  4. Go to your local Delaware DMV office
  5. Pass your vision test and written knowledge test
  6. Pay the application fee
  7. If you’re under 18, have a parent or guardian accompany you to sign the application

Can I apply online?

No, Delaware does not allow you to apply for an initial learner’s permit online. You must go to a DMV office in person.

How much does it cost to get a permit?

The Delaware DMV charges a fee for a learner’s permit. This fee covers processing your application, the written test and issuing your permit. Check the Delaware DMV website for current fee information.

What tests do I have to pass to get my permit?

To get your permit in Delaware you must pass:

  • A vision test to make sure you can see well enough to drive safely
  • A written knowledge test with multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs and safe driving practices

How many questions are on the Delaware permit test?

The Delaware permit written test has 30 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 24 questions correctly (80%) to pass.

What's on the Delaware permit test?

The Delaware permit test covers:

  • Traffic laws and regulations
  • Road signs and signals
  • Right-of-way rules
  • Safe driving practices
  • Penalties for violating traffic laws
  • Alcohol and drug effects on driving

How can I prepare for the permit test?

The best ways to prepare for your Delaware permit test:

  • Study the Delaware Driver’s Manual thoroughly, available on our website at this link
  • Take our free practice tests that simulate the actual permit test
  • Review the test materials multiple times to ensure you understand the key concepts
  • If you’re under 18, pay special attention to the material covered in your driver education course

What if I fail the permit test?

If you fail the Delaware permit test:

  • You must wait at least one day before retaking the test
  • You will need to pay a retest fee for each additional attempt
  • There is no limit to how many times you can take the test, but you must pay the fee each time
  • It’s recommended to study thoroughly before retaking the test

What can I do with a permit in Delaware?

With a Delaware Level One Learner’s Permit you can:

  • Practice driving with a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old and has held a license for at least 5 years
  • This supervising driver must sit in the front passenger seat
  • Gain experience to prepare for your road test and eventual driver’s license

What restrictions come with a permit in Delaware?

When driving with a Level One Learner’s Permit in Delaware you:

  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old and has held a license for at least 5 years
  • Cannot use any electronic devices while driving
  • Must ensure all occupants wear seat belts
  • Cannot drive at night

How long do I have to practice with my permit before I get a license?

In Delaware the requirements depend on your age:
If you are under 18:

  • You must hold your Level One Learner’s Permit for at least 6 months before applying for a Level Two Provisional License
  • You must complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice (10 hours at night)
  • You must be violation-free for 12 months

If you are 18 or older:

  • There is no minimum holding period; practice enough to develop safe driving skills before taking your road test

Do I need to take a driver education course to get my permit?

Delaware requires different driver education based on your age:

  • If you are under 18: Yes, you must complete a driver education course that includes 30 hours of classroom instruction and 7 hours of behind-the-wheel training. Proof of completion is required when applying for your permit.
  • If you are 18 or older: No, driver education is not required, although it is still recommended to help you become a safer driver.

What driver education do I need to complete before I get my license?

In Delaware, before you get your driver’s license, the requirements depend on your age:

  • If you are under 18, you must complete:
    • 30 hours of classroom instruction
    • 7 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a certified instructor
    • 50 hours of supervised driving practice (including 10 hours at night) with someone 25+ years old and a valid license
  • If you are 18 or older: No formal driver education is required, though it’s still beneficial.

How do I find an approved driver education program?

You can find Delaware-approved driver education programs by:

  • Checking your high school’s offerings (public schools in Delaware often offer driver education)
  • Visiting the Delaware DMV website for a list of licensed commercial driving schools
  • Contacting the Delaware Department of Education for information about approved programs

What can I expect during the road test?

The Delaware road test checks:

  • If you can safely operate the vehicle
  • If you follow traffic laws and signs
  • Basic maneuvers like turns, lane changes and parking
  • Awareness of other road users
  • Good decision making in various traffic situations

Before you start, the DMV examiner will check your vehicle to ensure it’s safe for testing (valid registration, insurance, working lights, brakes, etc.).

How do I schedule my road test?

You can schedule your road test in Delaware by:

  • Visiting the Delaware DMV website to make an appointment
  • Calling your local DMV office
  • Visiting a DMV office in person to schedule your test

It’s recommended to schedule your test well in advance.

What do I need to bring to my road test?

On the day of your road test in Delaware, bring:

  • Your Level One Learner’s Permit
  • A properly registered and insured vehicle for the test
  • Proof of insurance for the vehicle
  • Your completed driving log showing at least 50 hours of practice (if under 18)
  • A licensed driver who is at least 25 years old with at least 5 years of driving experience
  • If using a rental vehicle, your name must be on the rental contract and the contract must not exclude road tests

What are the most common reasons people fail the road test?

Common reasons for failing the Delaware road test include:

  • Not checking blind spots before changing lanes
  • Rolling through stop signs instead of coming to a complete stop
  • Driving too fast or too slow for conditions
  • Improper lane positioning or lane changes
  • Not yielding to pedestrians or other vehicles
  • Lack of steering control
  • Poor awareness of surroundings
  • Inability to parallel park

How do I convert my learner's permit to a driver's license?

To convert your learner’s permit to a driver’s license in Delaware:
If you are under 18:

  • Hold your Level One Learner’s Permit for at least 6 months
  • Complete 50 hours of supervised driving practice (10 hours at night)
  • Be violation-free for the last 12 consecutive months
  • Pass the road test
  • Pay the required fees

If you are 18 or older:

  • Practice with your permit
  • Schedule and pass the road test
  • Pay the required fees

What are the graduated licensing stages in Delaware?

Delaware’s graduated licensing program for minors has these stages:

  • Level One Learner’s Permit: Must be at least 16 years old, complete driver education, and practice with a licensed adult 25 or older who has held a license for at least 5 years.
  • Level Two Provisional License: Must be at least 16½ years old, have held your permit for at least 6 months, complete 50 hours of practice driving, and pass the road test.
  • Full License: Must be at least 17 years old and have held a Level Two Provisional License for at least 12 months without any moving violations.
  • Adults 18 and older can go directly from permit to full license after passing the road test.

What am I restricted from doing as a new driver after getting my license?

As a new driver under 18 in Delaware with a Level Two Provisional License, you will have these restrictions:

  • No driving between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. unless for employment or church activities
  • No more than one passenger besides immediate family members unless accompanied by a parent or guardian
  • No use of cell phones or other electronic devices while driving
  • All occupants must wear seat belts

These restrictions apply until you receive your full driver’s license at age 17 (provided you’ve held your Level Two License for 12 months without violations).

I have a permit from another state. Is it valid in Delaware?

Delaware does not recognize out-of-state permits. If you are moving to Delaware with an out-of-state permit:

  • You will need to apply for a Delaware permit
  • If you’re under 18, you may need to provide proof of completion of a driver education course
  • If you’re under 18, you must hold a permit for at least 6 months before scheduling your road test

Where can I download the Delaware Driver's Manual?

You can download a copy of the Delaware Driver’s Manual here. Physical copies are also available at any DMV office.

Are there free practice tests available?

Yes! We offer free Delaware-specific practice tests that mimic the actual permit test. These tests help you study the material and get comfortable with the test format.

Who can I contact if I have more questions about the permit process?

For more information about the Delaware permit process:

  • Visit the Delaware DMV website at dmv.delaware.gov
  • Call the DMV Customer Service Center at 302-744-2500 during business hours
  • Visit your local Delaware DMV office

What if I lose my permit?

If you lose your Delaware permit:

  • You must visit a DMV office to request a replacement
  • You will need to provide proof of your identity
  • You will need to pay a replacement fee
  • You may need to complete a new application form

How do I cancel a minor's permit or license?

A parent or guardian who signed the application for a minor can cancel their teen’s permit or license by submitting a written request to the Delaware DMV. The request should include the teen’s name, date of birth, driver’s license number, and a statement requesting cancellation.

From the miles of pristine beaches to quaint Colonial-era towns, the state of Delaware provides drivers with scenic roads and destinations for both residents and visitors alike. Whether you are looking to explore or simply commute to work or school, you will need to become a licensed driver.

Prepare for the Delaware Permit Test

Take the first step towards mobile freedom by preparing for the Delaware permit test. Prepare now by becoming familiar with the information in the official Delaware Drivers Handbook and then test your knowledge using our Delaware permit practice tests.

  • Real Test Simulation: Our DE permit practice tests mimic the actual exam format and content for a realistic experience.
  • Instant Feedback: Get immediate answers to help you learn faster.
  • Track Your Progress: Monitor your performance over time to identify areas for improvement.
  • Unlimited Practice: Practice as many times as needed to build your confidence before the real test.

Delaware’s Graduated Driver License rules apply to drivers under age 18. You must be at least 16 years old to receive your learner’s permit, pass the written knowledge test, and present proof of passing a driver education program.

Start Your DE Permit Practice Test Now

No matter if you’re new to driving or have years behind the wheel, DE permit practice tests are not only an essential study tool to help you pass the written test but can also help you become a better driver. Start preparing for success today!

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