License Renewal in Delaware
Here's exactly how to renew your Delaware driver's license — every route the state offers, what it costs, and what to do if it's already expired. Start below, or ask Sam about your exact case.
How to renew your driver's license in Delaware
Renew Your Delaware Driver's License
If you plan to drive your vehicle in Delaware, you'll need to renew your DE driver's license with the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when it is near its expiration date (or in some cases, expired).
We'll walk you through the steps to take and items to bring to keep your car street legal. Keep on reading for details!
NOTE: If you're looking for information about other types of driver's licenses, visit our following pages:
- Commercial driver's license (CDL) renewals
- Identification cards
- Driver's permits
- Motorcycle licenses
REAL ID Licenses in Delaware
The Delaware DMV now issues REAL ID driver's licenses. These cards may be used for identification to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities. The DMV will also continue to issue non-compliant driver's licenses, which MAY NOT be used for federal purposes, if you are unable to provide the specific documents required for a REAL ID.
Full details are below!
When to Renew Your DE Driver's License
The DE DMV will mail you a renewal notice approximately 60 days before your driver's license is set to expire.
Class D (standard or permanent) driver's licenses must be renewed every 8 years.
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If you're curious about your driver's license status, you can always obtain a copy of your driving record.
Expired Driver's License
Expired license renewals are handled in the same manner as current licenses, except the DE DMV will charge you a $10 late fee.
Renew Your Delaware Driver's License
The Delaware DMV requires renewals to be completed in person or online.
The Delaware DMV offers REAL ID-compliant driver’s licenses and identification cards. These cards are marked with a gold star in the upper right-hand corner, and can be used to board domestic flights and enter federal facilities. For more information about the REAL ID Act, read our article on the subject.
If you would like to get the REAL ID at the time of your renewal, you will need to go to the DMV and bring documents proving your:
- Identity and legal presence.
- Social Security number.
- DE residency (2 documents required).
- Citizenship/immigration status.
- Name change (if applicable).
The Delaware DMV provides a full list of acceptable documents for each requirement.
What if I can't provide REAL ID-compliant documents?
If you do not bring or can't provide the required documents for a REAL ID, you will be issued a driver’s license that is non-compliant.Instead of it being marked with a gold star, the card will say “Not for Federal Identification” in the upper right margin.
Once you have all of your required documents together, head to your local Delaware DMV office and:
- Bring all of the required documents (above).*
- Surrender your expiring DE driver's license.
- Complete the application form in person.
- Pass a vision test.
- Take the written and road tests, if required.
- This is dependent on your particular circumstances (e.g., your license already is expired, etc.).
- Pay the required driver's license renewal fee.
- See Fees to Renew Your DE Driver's License below for a breakdown.
If you don't receive your renewed license, you can contact the DE DMV to check the status.
* NOTE: If you do not bring in the required documents for a REAL ID, you will be issued a driver’s license that is non-compliant. Instead of it being marked with a gold star, the card will say “Not for Federal Identification” in the upper right margin.Out-of-State Residents & Military Members
NOTICE: Military Members Stationed in Germany
If you are currently stationed in Germany, please be aware that some states require you to have a valid U.S. driver's license in addition to your USAREUR license. Read our article for more information.
For Delaware residents currently out of state or stationed elsewhere on active duty military service, the DMV has provisions in place to help you renew your driver's license.
Choose your situation below for details.
Renewal Fees in Delaware
In Delaware the required fees for renewing your driver's license for 8 years is $50.
If you have a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license, you'll need to pay an additional $12.
Accepted Payment Methods
- Cash.
- Check.
- Money order.
- Debit card.
- VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover credit cards.
While you're at it
Renewal is the moment most people discover something else is out of date. Here's what's worth checking.
Frequently asked questions
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