How many questions are on the DMV written test?

The Delaware DMV Class D written knowledge test has 30 multiple-choice questions drawn from the Delaware Driver Manual (July 2025). You must answer at least 24 correctly (80%) to pass. There is no published time limit.

What topics are covered on the DMV knowledge test?

The test covers road signs and shapes, traffic signals, right-of-way rules, DUI and alcohol laws, school bus rules, speed limits, parking regulations, lane markings, and safe driving practices from the Delaware Driver Manual (July 2025).

What is the passing score for the DMV written test?

You need 24 correct answers out of 30 (80%) to pass the Delaware DMV knowledge test. Road signs are mixed in throughout the test rather than offered as a separate signs-only section.

What is the minimum age for a Delaware Learner License?

A Delaware Class D Learner Permit can be issued starting at age 16 (or age 16 to 22 with an approved IEP). Applicants under 18 must complete an approved driver education course and have a parent or legal guardian sign for them. The Learner Permit must be held at least 6 months. While driving on the permit, a licensed adult age 25 or older with at least 5 years of Class D driving experience must occupy the seat next to the driver. The teen must also complete 50 hours of supervised practice, including 10 at night, before advancing.

How long does the DMV written test take?

The Delaware DMV Class D written test has 30 questions and there is no published time limit. Most applicants finish in 20 to 30 minutes. Road signs are mixed into the test, not given as a separate section. You need 24 of 30 correct (80%) to pass.

What is the BAC limit for drivers in Delaware?

Delaware uses DUI (Driving Under the Influence). The legal BAC limit is 0.08% for drivers 21 and older. Drivers under 21 are held to a 0.02% limit (Zero Tolerance). A first DUI conviction carries a $500 to $1,500 fine, up to 12 months in jail, and a 12-month license revocation if BAC is below 0.15%, 18 months for BAC 0.15 to 0.19%, and 24 months for BAC 0.20% or higher. Refusing the chemical test under Delaware's implied consent law triggers a separate 12-month license revocation for a first refusal.

Does Delaware have a cell phone / distracted driving law?

Yes. Delaware law prohibits all drivers from using a hand-held cell phone or wireless communications device while driving — hands-free use is allowed for adults. Drivers with a Class D Learner Permit or Provisional License (under 18) may not use any cell phone, even hands-free, while driving. Texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers.

Free Delaware Permit Practice Test 2026

📖 DMV Study Guide

Everything important from the Delaware Driver Manual (July 2025) — organized for the exam

⭐

Memorize these numbers first. Delaware test questions are frequently built around specific distances, speeds, BAC levels, and time periods. These come up constantly.

Speed Limits

HIGH FREQUENCY

25 mph

Default speed limit on Delaware business and residential district streets. Always obey posted limits (p. 91).

20 mph

School zone speed limit when children are present in Delaware. Slow down and be prepared to stop for children, crossing guards, and buses (p. 91).

50 / 55 mph

Delaware two-lane roads: 50 mph. Divided roads or roads with 4 or more lanes: 55 mph. Controlled-access highways: 55 mph. Route 1 and I-495: 65 mph (p. 91).

Posted

Speed limits are posted for ideal conditions. Drivers must reduce speed for rain, ice, heavy traffic, or any condition that makes the posted speed unsafe.

200 ft

Total stopping distance at 30 mph in Delaware — about 200 feet of reaction plus braking distance on dry pavement (p. 124).

400 ft

Total stopping distance at 50 mph in Delaware — about 400 feet of reaction plus braking distance. Stopping distance grows much faster than speed (p. 124).

📏

Critical Distances & Clearances

HIGH FREQUENCY

15 ft

Do not park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant (p. 89-91).

20 ft

Do not park within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection, or within 20 feet of a fire station entrance (p. 89-91).

30 ft

Do not park within 30 feet of a stop sign, traffic signal, or flashing beacon (p. 89-91).

50 ft

Do not park within 50 feet of a railroad crossing (p. 89-91).

12 in

Parallel park — your vehicle must be within 12 inches of the curb when finished in Delaware (p. 89).

Both headlights

After passing, return to your lane only when you can see BOTH headlights of the passed vehicle in your rearview mirror.

500 / 200 ft

Dim high beams within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle. Use low beams when following within 200 feet of another vehicle (p. 59-61).

1,000 ft

Turn on headlights anytime visibility is less than 1,000 feet, when wipers are on, and from sunset to sunrise (p. 59-61).

300 ft

Signal your intention to turn at least 300 feet before the turn (p. 79, 120).

$25+

Safety belt violation fine — primary enforcement in Delaware. All front-seat occupants and all passengers under 16 must be buckled (p. 107).

3 ft

Pass bicyclists with at least 3 feet of clearance in Delaware. Never crowd a cyclist or pass when the street is too narrow (p. 94-97).

Both ways

Stop in BOTH directions for a Delaware school bus with flashing red lights — UNLESS you are on the opposite side of a road with 4 or more lanes, in which case proceed slowly with caution (p. 79, 87-88).

🍺

DUI & Alcohol Numbers

ALWAYS ON TEST

0.08%

Legal BAC limit for drivers 21 and older. At or above this level you can be arrested for DUI in Delaware (p. 49, 53-57).

0.02%

Zero Tolerance for drivers under 21 in Delaware — at or above 0.02% BAC you face a separate underage drinking-and-driving charge (p. 49).

12-24 mo

1st DUI conviction — DMV revokes the license 12 months if BAC is below 0.15%, 18 months if BAC is 0.15-0.19%, 24 months if BAC is 0.20% or higher or you refused. Fine $500-$1,500, up to 12 months in jail (p. 53-57).

12 mo

Refusing a chemical test under Delaware's implied consent law triggers a separate 12-month license revocation for a first refusal — by driving on Delaware roads you have agreed to a breath, blood, or urine test after a DUI arrest (p. 53-57).

$200

License reinstatement fee in Delaware after a revocation — $50 after a suspension. Re-licensing also requires meeting all court conditions (p. 14).

🎓

Teen / GDL Numbers

ON EXAM

Age 16

Minimum age for a Delaware Class D Learner Permit (16 to 22 with an approved IEP). Must complete an approved driver education course; a parent or guardian must sign for applicants under 18 (p. 27-29).

Age 16-17

Class D Provisional License — issued after holding the Learner Permit at least 6 months and completing 50 hours of supervised practice (10 at night). Restrictions automatically end at age 18 (p. 27-29).

10 PM-6 AM

During the first 6 months on the Learner Permit, driving is unsupervised only between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. — supervised at all other times. Exceptions: travel to/from work, school, or church (p. 27-29).

No cell

ALL cell phone use — even hands-free — is prohibited for Delaware GDL holders (Learner Permit and Provisional License). Texting is banned for all drivers (p. 27-29, 79).

6 months

Must hold the Learner Permit at least 6 consecutive months and log 50 supervised hours (10 at night) before advancing to the Class D Provisional License (p. 27-29).

Age 18

Full unrestricted Class D license. Supervisor on the Learner Permit must be 25+, hold a Class D license, and have at least 5 years of driving experience — and must occupy the seat next to the driver (p. 27-29).

⏱️

Following Distance & Time Rules

ON EXAM

3 sec

Delaware's 3-second following rule — pick a fixed point ahead, and count the seconds between when the vehicle ahead passes it and when you reach it. Less than three seconds means you are following too closely (p. 125).

4-6 sec

Increase the following gap to 4 seconds at highway speed and 6 or more in rain, snow, fog, behind a motorcycle or large truck, or any time visibility is poor (p. 125).

200 / 400 ft

Total stopping distance in Delaware — about 200 ft at 30 mph and 400 ft at 50 mph (reaction + braking). Stopping distance grows much faster than speed (p. 124).

Hands-free

Hand-held cell phone use is banned for adults — hands-free is OK. ALL phone use (even hands-free) is banned for GDL holders. Texting is banned for everyone (p. 79).

🚦

Road signs are tested heavily. Know each sign's shape, color, and meaning. The real test often shows a sign description and asks what it means.

🔴

Sign Shapes — Each Shape Has One Meaning

ALWAYS TESTED

Shape	Meaning	Example
Octagon (8-sided)	STOP — always and only	Stop sign
Triangle (pointing down)	YIELD — give right of way	Yield sign
Diamond	WARNING — hazard ahead	Curve, pedestrian, deer
Pentagon (5-sided)	SCHOOL ZONE	School crossing
Pennant (triangle right)	NO PASSING ZONE	No-passing pennant
Round (circle)	RAILROAD CROSSING advance warning	RR crossing sign
Rectangle (vertical)	REGULATORY — rules you must follow	Speed limit, turn restrictions
Rectangle (horizontal)	GUIDE or INFORMATION	Street name, mile marker
X-shaped crossbuck	RAILROAD CROSSING — treat like yield	Railroad crossbuck

🎨

Sign Colors — Color Tells You the Category

ALWAYS TESTED

Color	Category	What It Means
Red	Regulatory — STOP / PROHIBIT	Stop, yield, do not enter, wrong way, no-turn circles
Yellow	WARNING	General hazard warnings — curves, hills, intersections, animals
Orange	WORK ZONE / CONSTRUCTION	Construction ahead, road crew, slow down and drive with care. Delaware doubles traffic fines in posted work zones when workers are present. Always obey posted reduced speed limits.
Green	GUIDE / DIRECTIONAL	Highway exits, distances, direction, mile markers
Blue	SERVICES	Gas, food, lodging, hospital, rest area
Brown	RECREATION / CULTURAL	Parks, campgrounds, historical sites, scenic areas
White	REGULATORY	Speed limits, lane rules, turn restrictions
Fluorescent Yellow-Green	WARNING — pedestrian / school / bike	School zones, crosswalks, bike lanes
Fluorescent Pink	INCIDENT MANAGEMENT	Crash clean-up, debris removal, temporary traffic control

⚠️

Signs That Are Frequently Confused

TRICKY

No Passing Pennant vs. No U-Turn: The pennant (pointing right) = no passing. A circle with a slash over a U-turn arrow = no U-turn. Very different.

Crossbuck (RR) vs. Stop Sign: The crossbuck (white X) = yield/slow down and check. Only stop if a train is coming. The octagon = always stop.

Divided Highway Begins vs. Ends: Begins = two arrows pointing apart (median starts). Ends = two arrows merging together (median ends — expect two-way traffic).

Merge vs. Lane Ends: Merge = two roads joining (both cars adjust). Lane Ends = one lane disappears — that driver must yield and merge.

Red Circle with Slash: Always means that action is PROHIBITED. No left turn, no trucks, no bicycles — whatever is inside the circle is forbidden.

⭐

Right of way is the #1 failure topic on the DMV knowledge test. Master every scenario below — these questions will be on your exam.

⛽

The Core Right-of-Way Rules

MOST TESTED

Uncontrolled intersection — arrive at same time: Yield to the driver on your RIGHT. This is the most tested right-of-way rule.

Left turn at green light: You must always yield to oncoming traffic AND pedestrians — even with a green light. A green light is permission to go, not a guarantee of right of way.

Pedestrians in a crosswalk: Always yield. Stop and wait until the pedestrian has completely crossed — not just stepped back. This includes jaywalkers in many situations.

Blind pedestrian (white cane / guide dog): Absolute right of way — you must stop regardless of where they are crossing.

Four-way stop: First to arrive goes first. Simultaneous arrival = yield to the driver on your right. Straight traffic before turning traffic if both arrive at same time from opposite directions.

Emergency vehicles (lights + siren): Pull to the right edge of the road and stop. Clear intersections first — never stop IN an intersection.

Entering from driveway / private road: Always yield to all traffic on the public road — you have no right of way entering from private property.

Roundabout: Vehicles inside the roundabout always have right of way. Entering traffic must yield. When exiting, yield to pedestrians at the crosswalk.

Merging onto a highway: Traffic already on the highway has right of way. The merging vehicle must yield and find a safe gap.

Non-functioning traffic signal: Treat as an all-way stop. All drivers stop, yield, and take turns.

💡

Right-of-Way Scenarios That Trick People

TRICKY

Yellow light: It does NOT mean speed up. If you can stop safely, you must. Proceed only if stopping would be unsafe (you're too close to stop).

Already in intersection when light turns red: Complete the turn — you are committed. Other traffic must wait for you to clear.

Backing out of a driveway: The reversing vehicle always yields to street traffic. You have no right of way in reverse.

Funeral processions: Treat funeral escort vehicles displaying flashing lights the same as emergency vehicles — yield and do not attempt to pass or cut through the procession.

Right turn on red: Legal ONLY after a complete stop and yielding to ALL traffic and pedestrians. Rolling right on red is illegal.

Left on red: Legal ONLY when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street — after a complete stop and yielding.

🚥

Traffic Signal Meanings

ALWAYS TESTED

Signal	What You Must Do
Solid GREEN	Proceed — but yield to traffic already in intersection
Solid YELLOW	Prepare to stop if safe; proceed only if stopping would be dangerous
Solid RED	Stop completely; may turn right on red after stop and yield (unless posted)
GREEN ARROW	Protected turn — oncoming traffic must stop. You may turn in the arrow's direction, but still yield to vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection.
YELLOW ARROW	Protected turn is ending — prepare to yield or stop
Flashing YELLOW ARROW	Unprotected turn — you MAY turn but MUST yield to oncoming and pedestrians
Flashing RED	Treat exactly like a STOP sign — stop, yield, proceed when safe
Flashing YELLOW	Caution — slow down and proceed carefully. Do not need to stop.
RED + GREEN ARROW	Stop for through traffic; turn in direction of arrow only
Signal NOT working	Treat as ALL-WAY STOP — all traffic stops

🛣️

Lane Markings — Know Each One

ON EXAM

Broken yellow center line: Passing is permitted from your side when it is safe.

Solid yellow line on your side: No passing from your side of the road.

Double solid yellow: No passing in either direction.

White lines: Separate traffic going in the same direction. Broken = lane change ok. Solid = discouraged (but not always illegal).

Yellow lines: Separate traffic going in opposite directions.

Center left-turn lane (two-way turn lane): Use ONLY to prepare for and make a left turn. Never use as a travel or passing lane.

Yellow X over a lane: Lane is CLOSED — move to a lane with a green arrow immediately.

White stop line: Stop your front bumper at or behind this line at intersections and crosswalks.

↔️

Safe Lane Changing Procedure

STEP BY STEP

Check your mirrors — rearview and side mirror on the side you're moving to

Signal your intent — at least 100 feet before turning or changing lanes

Look over your shoulder — physically check the blind spot. Mirrors cannot see everything.

Change lanes gradually — smooth and controlled, not jerky

Cancel signal and adjust speed to match the lane's traffic flow

🚨

DUI questions appear on virtually every DMV knowledge test. Know the BAC levels, implied consent law, and penalties. Delaware uses "DUI" (Driving Under the Influence).

🍺

DUI Laws — The Numbers You Must Know

ALWAYS ON TEST

Situation	Consequence
BAC of 0.08%+ (driver 21+)	DUI — 1st conviction: fine $500-$1,500, up to 12 months in jail, license revoked 12-24 months depending on BAC (12 mo if <.15, 18 mo if .15-.19, 24 mo if .20+ or refusal). 2nd offense and 3rd+ offenses carry significantly higher fines, mandatory jail time, and longer revocations (p. 49, 53-57).
Impairment below the legal BAC limit	You can still be arrested for DUI in Delaware even below 0.08% if alcohol, drugs, or any combination impair your ability to drive safely. Judgment is the first ability affected by alcohol (p. 49, 53-57).
Test refusal (implied consent)	You can lose your driver's license. Under Delaware's implied consent law, by driving on Delaware roads you have consented to a chemical test (breath, blood, or urine) after a DUI arrest. Refusing triggers a separate 12-month revocation for a first refusal — longer for subsequent refusals (p. 53-57).
BAC — under 21 (Zero Tolerance)	Delaware's under-21 limit is 0.02% BAC. A first violation carries a 2-month license suspension (or eligibility delay), an alcohol awareness course, and is treated separately from any DUI charge if BAC is also 0.08%+ (p. 49).
Minor purchasing or possessing alcohol (under 21)	Illegal in Delaware. A first conviction for underage purchase, possession, or consumption can result in license suspension and mandatory alcohol education in addition to the underlying alcohol charge (p. 49).
DUI — causing death	Vehicular Homicide While DUI is a felony in Delaware carrying years of mandatory prison time, a multi-year revocation, and substantial fines. The related charge for serious bodily injury is Vehicular Assault While DUI (p. 53-57).

💡

Critical DUI Facts to Remember

TESTED

Implied consent: By driving on Delaware roads, you consent in advance to a breath, blood, or urine chemical test if a police officer asks for one after a DUI arrest. Refusing triggers a separate 12-month revocation for a first refusal, plus a $200 reinstatement fee — entirely separate from any DUI conviction (p. 53-57).

Only TIME removes alcohol: Coffee, food, cold showers, and fresh air do NOT lower your BAC. Your liver processes about 1 drink per hour — nothing speeds this up (p. 49).

Impairment starts with the first drink: Judgment is the FIRST driving ability affected by alcohol — and you can be convicted of DUI in Delaware even below 0.08% if alcohol or drugs impair your ability to drive (p. 49, 53-57).

Under-21 Zero Tolerance: Delaware's per-se BAC limit for drivers under 21 is 0.02%. The charge is separate from a standard DUI and applies even when BAC is below the adult 0.08% threshold. Penalties include license suspension and mandatory alcohol awareness (p. 49).

Mixing drugs and alcohol: Never drink alcohol while taking medications or other drugs. These combinations may multiply the effects of alcohol, reduce your ability to drive safely, and could cause serious health problems or even death.

Cell phone + GDL: All cell phone use — including hands-free — is prohibited for Delaware GDL holders (Learner Permit and Provisional License). For all drivers, hand-held cell phone use and texting are banned; only hands-free is allowed for adults (p. 27-29, 79).

Drugs and driving: Driving while impaired by any drug — prescription, over-the-counter, or controlled — is illegal in Delaware. Even legally prescribed medications that impair your ability to drive can lead to a DUI charge (p. 49, 53-57).

🚌

School bus rules are heavily tested. When meeting OR overtaking a Delaware school bus stopped with flashing red lights, you must stop in BOTH directions — UNLESS you are on the opposite side of a road with 4 or more lanes, in which case you proceed slowly with caution. Yellow lights flash about 10 seconds before red (p. 79, 87-88).

🚌

School Bus Stopping Rules

HEAVILY TESTED

Two-lane road / undivided road: ALL traffic in BOTH directions must stop when a Delaware school bus has flashing red lights — meeting or overtaking from either direction (p. 79, 87-88).

Delaware exception — 4+ lane road: If you are on the opposite side of a road with 4 or more lanes, you do NOT need to stop — proceed slowly with caution. Same-direction traffic on any road must still stop (p. 79, 87-88).

Same direction — always stop: Traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus must ALWAYS stop, regardless of road type or number of lanes (p. 79, 87-88).

After the bus stops: Remain stopped until the bus has finished receiving or discharging passengers and begins moving without its red lights flashing. Then proceed slowly, watching carefully for children near the roadway (p. 79, 87-88).

When may you proceed: Only when the red lights STOP flashing and the bus begins moving. Do not pass until the bus has finished loading/unloading and the red lights are off (p. 79, 87-88).

Yellow lights = warning: Yellow lights flash about 10 seconds before the red lights activate. Slow down immediately and prepare to stop. Do not try to pass before it stops (p. 79).

One of the most tested topics: School bus stop questions appear on many Delaware DMV knowledge tests. Default rule: STOP in both directions; only exception is being on the opposite side of a 4+ lane road (p. 79, 87-88).

School buses must stop at ALL railroad crossings — regardless of whether warning signals are active. This is federal law.

Penalty for passing a stopped school bus — 1st conviction: Fine of $115 to $230 plus 30 to 60 days in jail and a 1-month license suspension. Penalties escalate sharply for repeat offenses (p. 87-88).

Serious bodily injury — repeat offense: Causing injury or death while passing a stopped school bus can lead to felony charges in addition to substantially higher fines and a longer license revocation (p. 87-88).

Speed Laws — What You Must Know

ON EVERY TEST

Basic Speed Law: Drive at a speed that is reasonable and proper for existing conditions — even if that means going below the posted limit. Rain, fog, heavy traffic, school zones all require reduced speed.

Posted limits are MAXIMUMS: You may never legally exceed a posted limit, regardless of conditions, traffic, or what other drivers are doing.

Minimum speed law: Do not drive so slowly that you impede or block the normal flow of traffic. Driving too slowly is also illegal.

Work zone caution: Reduce speed in work zones. Delaware doubles traffic fines in posted work zones when workers are present. Always obey reduced posted limits and the directions of any flagger (p. 91).

"Over-driving your headlights": Headlights are required in Delaware from sunset to sunrise, any time visibility is less than 1,000 feet, and whenever windshield wipers are on. Use low beams in fog, heavy rain, sleet, or snow. Never drive faster than you can stop within the distance your headlights illuminate (p. 59-61).

Four-Second Sight Distance Rule: To check if you're going too fast for conditions, pick a stationary object ahead. Count "one-one-thousand, two-one-thousand, three-one-thousand, four-one-thousand." If you reach the object before finishing — you are going too fast for the conditions. Slow down.

↔️

Following Distance — The 2-Second Rule

TESTED

Pick a fixed object — a sign, overpass, or lane marking ahead

When the car ahead passes it, start counting: "one-one-thousand, two-one-thousand"

If you pass the object before 2 seconds — you are following too closely. Slow down and increase the gap. In adverse conditions, increase to 4 or more seconds.

💡 When to increase beyond 2 seconds

Rain, snow, ice, or fog → 4 seconds minimum
Driving at night → increase beyond 2 seconds
Following a large truck or motorcycle → 4+ seconds
Towing a trailer → 4 seconds minimum
Driving at highway speeds → increase distance proportionally

📐

Passing Rules

TESTED

✓

You MAY pass when: There is a broken yellow line on your side, you have sufficient sight distance, and there is no sign or condition prohibiting passing.

✗

NEVER pass: On a hill, curve, or any place where vision is limited; within 100 feet of an intersection or railroad crossing; near a bridge, viaduct, or tunnel; in no-passing zones (solid yellow on your side, "Do Not Pass" sign, or no-passing pennant). Always pass on the left except in the limited cases below (p. 79, 120).

→

When it is safe to return: You may move back into your original lane when both headlights of the passed vehicle are visible in your rearview mirror.

→

Passing on the right: Legal when the vehicle ahead is making a left turn and there is a safe lane to the right, or on a multi-lane road.

🅿️

Parking Clearance Requirements

TESTED

Location	Minimum Clearance
Fire hydrant	15 ft — do not park within 15 ft (p. 89-91)
Stop sign / yield sign / flashing signal / traffic control device	30 ft — do not park within 30 ft of these (p. 89-91)
Pedestrian safety zone	20 ft — do not park within 20 ft of a pedestrian safety zone (p. 89-91)
Crosswalk at intersection	20 ft — do not park within 20 ft of a crosswalk at an intersection (p. 89-91)
Railroad crossing	50 ft — do not park within 50 ft of a railroad crossing (p. 89-91)
Fire station driveway	20 ft from the entrance — do not park within 20 ft (p. 89-91)
Driveway entrance (public or private)	Not in front of — always prohibited
Accessible (handicapped) space	Never without a valid disability placard or plate — also do not park on the diagonal access lines (p. 89-91)
Inside an intersection or on a crosswalk	Never — always illegal
Handicapped space (without placard)	Never park here
Bridge, overpass, or tunnel	Never — always prohibited (p. 89-91)
No Stopping zone	Never stop here, for any reason
No Parking zone	No parking — may stop to load/unload

⛰️

Parking on Hills — Wheel Position

TRICK QUESTION

💡

The rule: always turn wheels so that if the car rolls, it rolls away from traffic or is caught by the curb.

Situation	Turn Wheels	Why
Facing DOWNHILL, WITH curb	RIGHT (into curb)	Car rolls into curb and stops
Facing DOWNHILL, NO curb	RIGHT (away from road)	Car rolls away from traffic
Facing UPHILL, WITH curb	LEFT (away from curb)	Car rolls back, caught by curb
Facing UPHILL, NO curb	RIGHT (away from road)	Car rolls away from traffic

💡 Memory trick

Going downhill with a curb = wheels RIGHT into the curb
Going uphill with a curb = wheels LEFT, away from curb (tire catches it when rolling back)
No curb either way = wheels RIGHT, away from road

🎓

GDL questions appear on many tests. Know Delaware's Graduated Driver Licensing program, the restrictions in each phase, and the specific ages, hold periods, and curfew hours.

🎓

Delaware Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)

ON EXAM

Phase 1 — Class D Learner Permit (age 16+)

→

Minimum age: 16 years old (or 16 to 22 with an approved IEP). Must complete an approved driver education course. A parent or legal guardian must sign for applicants under 18 (p. 27-29).

→

Hold the Class D Learner Permit at least 6 consecutive months and log 50 hours of supervised practice (10 of those at night) before advancing. The permit is suspended for 2 months for a 1st offense if the driver is caught driving in violation of the permit's restrictions — treated as driving without a license (p. 27-29).

→

Supervisor must be 25 or older, hold a Class D license, have at least 5 years of Class D driving experience, and occupy the seat next to the driver. The supervisor must be alert, awake, and unimpaired (p. 27-29).

→

ALL cell phone use — including hands-free — is prohibited for Class D Learner Permit holders. Texting is banned for all drivers in Delaware (p. 27-29, 79).

Phase 2 — Class D Provisional License (age 16-17)

→

Eligibility: at least 6 months on the Learner Permit, 50 hours of supervised practice (10 night), no traffic or alcohol/drug offenses during the permit period, and successful completion of the road test (p. 27-29).

→

Restrictions: First 6 months — unsupervised driving only between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. (church/work/school exceptions). Supervised driving allowed at all other times. ALL cell phone use prohibited (p. 27-29).

→

All GDL restrictions are automatically lifted at age 18 — the Class D license becomes a full unrestricted license at that point (p. 27-29).

Full Unrestricted Class D License (age 18+)

→

Restrictions automatically end at age 18. A standard 8-year Class D license costs $40 in Delaware. Late renewal: $10. Replacement: $20 (p. 14).

→

Adult applicants (18+) without an out-of-state license to exchange must still pass the vision, written, and road tests but are not required to complete the driver education course required for under-18 applicants (p. 17, 27-29).

→

For all Delaware drivers: hand-held cell phone use is banned (hands-free is OK), and texting while driving is prohibited. New residents have 60 days to convert an out-of-state license; address changes must be reported within 30 days (p. 17, 62, 79).

🛡️

Emergency Situations — What to Do

TESTED

💨

Tire blowout: Hold the wheel FIRMLY. Ease off gas (don't brake suddenly). Let the car slow naturally. Then gently steer to safety. Sudden braking causes a spin.

💧

Hydroplaning: Ease off gas, hold wheel steady, avoid braking. Let tires re-contact the road. Don't jerk the wheel or brake hard.

🔥

Engine fire: Pull over immediately, turn off engine, get EVERYONE out and move far away (100+ feet). Call 911. Never open the hood.

⚡

Brakes fail: Pump brakes rapidly to build pressure. Downshift to use engine braking. Use parking brake carefully (gradually). Steer to safety.

🌊

Accelerator sticks: Shift to NEUTRAL immediately. Apply brakes. Pull over. Turn engine off.

🌀

Vehicle skids: Ease off gas and brakes. Steer in the direction you want the front to go (into the skid). Do not overcorrect.

🚂

Stalled on railroad tracks: Get EVERYONE out IMMEDIATELY. Move away at a 45° angle in the direction the train is coming — so debris flies away from you. Call 911 and the railroad ENS number.

🌫️

Driving in fog: Use LOW beams (high beams reflect off fog and blind you). Slow significantly. Use fog lights if available. Consider pulling over.

😴

Drowsy driving: Only cure = sleep. Pull over and rest. Coffee, window down, and music are NOT effective solutions. Drowsy driving equals drunk driving in impairment level.

❄️

Stranded in a blizzard: Stay in the vehicle (it's shelter and visible). Run engine briefly for heat with window cracked to prevent CO poisoning. Signal for help with hazards.

🧠

Defensive Driving Principles

ESSENTIAL

Scan ahead: Look 12-15 seconds ahead — about a city block in town, farther on highways. Check mirrors every few seconds and whenever slowing, changing lanes, or approaching intersections.

Keep an escape route: Always know where you could go if the car ahead stopped suddenly.

Bridges freeze first: Cold air circulates above AND below a bridge. Bridges ice before road surface — always treat them as potentially icy in winter.

Head-on collision approaching: Brake hard and steer RIGHT — even off the road. A head-on crash at speed is almost always fatal; going off-road is survivable.

Road rage: Never engage, retaliate, or make eye contact. Don't respond with gestures. Slow down, create distance. Report to 911 if dangerous.

Front wheel off pavement: Don't jerk the wheel — it can roll the car. Ease off gas, brake gently, and gradually steer back. Hold on tight.

🔧

Vehicle Equipment Requirements

TESTED

Equipment	Requirement
Headlights (on)	Required from sunset to sunrise, any time visibility is less than 1,000 feet, and any time windshield wipers are in use. Use low beams in fog, heavy rain, sleet, or snow. Studded tires are legal Oct 15 to Apr 15 (p. 59-61).
High beams (dim)	Dim within 500 ft of an oncoming vehicle and within 200 ft when following another vehicle. High beams reveal up to 350 feet ahead; low beams reveal about 100 feet (p. 59-61).
Horn	Must be audible from at least 200 feet. Use when needed to prevent a crash. Do NOT use to express anger, greet friends, or encourage others to move. Avoid around blind pedestrians and animal-drawn vehicles (p. 59-61).
Turn signals	Signal at least 300 feet before turning or changing lanes in Delaware. Cancel the signal after the maneuver is complete (p. 79, 120).
Tinted windows	Window tinting must not obstruct the driver's view. Delaware permits tinting on rear and rear-side windows but limits front-side tinting; confirm current percentages with the DMV before installing aftermarket tint.
TVs / video screens visible to driver	Prohibited while vehicle is in motion (navigation is excepted)
Muffler	Must prevent excessive or unusual noise
Brakes	Service brakes and parking brakes must both be in good working order at all times. If brakes make noise, smell odd, or the pedal goes to the floor, have a mechanic check them before driving.
Wipers	Must adequately clean the windshield when used. Headlights must be on whenever wipers are in use in Delaware (p. 59-61).
Tail lights / rear reflector	Tail lights must be visible from at least 500 feet at night. Brake lights must be visible from at least 100 feet in normal sunlight (p. 59-61).
Tires	Tires must have safe tread depth — use the penny test (insert a penny head-first; if the tread does not reach Lincoln's head, replace the tire). Studded tires are legal in Delaware Oct 15 through Apr 15 only (p. 59-61).
Hazard lights	For use when parked/stopped in an emergency — not while driving normally
Seat belts & child restraints	Delaware seat belt law is primary enforcement — all front-seat occupants and all passengers under 16 must be buckled. Child seat law: rear-facing under age 2 AND 30 lbs; harnessed forward-facing under age 4 AND 40 lbs; no front seat for children under age 12 OR under 5'5" tall (p. 107).

💡

Headlight Rules That Are Tested

TESTED

Headlights required by Delaware law: from sunset to sunrise, any time visibility is less than 1,000 feet, and any time the windshield wipers are on. Use low beams in fog, heavy rain, sleet, or snow (p. 59-61).

Parking lights ≠ headlights: Parking lights are for indicating a parked vehicle only. Driving with only parking lights is prohibited in Delaware — you must use headlights anytime they are required.

Dim high beams: within 500 feet of an oncoming vehicle and within 200 feet when following another vehicle. Always use low beams in fog, heavy rain, sleet, or snow (p. 59-61).

Night driving — "drive in your headlights": High beams reveal about 350 feet ahead; low beams reveal about 100 feet. Never drive faster than you can stop within the distance lit by your headlights. This is called over-driving your headlights and is dangerous (p. 59-61).

⚡

Before the Test — What to Do

PREPARATION

Take the DMV Exam Simulator at least 5 times and score 90%+ consistently. Don't go in when you're scoring 80% — aim higher than the minimum.

Use the "Weak Spots" mode the night before. Every question you got wrong — review those explanations until you understand WHY, not just what the answer is.

Memorize the Key Numbers tab — BAC limits, distances, suspension periods, speed limits. These are direct exam fodder.

Get a good night's sleep. Drowsy test-taking impairs recall just like drowsy driving impairs reaction time.

Bring required documents: proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport or certified birth certificate), proof of Social Security number (SS card or W-2), proof of Delaware residency (two documents — utility bill, bank statement, lease), and proof of legal presence. Drivers under 18 need a parent/guardian to sign and proof of completed driver education. Bring glasses or contacts if you wear them. Full list at dmv.de.gov.

🧠

During the Test — How to Answer

STRATEGY

The safest answer is usually correct. When in doubt, pick the option that is most cautious, most yields, or stops the most. Delaware tests reward safe, defensive driving choices.

Watch for "NEVER" and "ALWAYS" options. These are sometimes traps — but in Delaware driving law, there actually are many absolute rules (ALWAYS stop for school bus, NEVER pass on a hill crest, etc.).

"All of the above" is very often the correct answer on DMV knowledge tests — especially for questions about DUI charges, suspension triggers, and violations.

Read every word. Test questions often hinge on words like "divided highway" vs. "undivided," "business district" vs. "residential," or "first offense" vs. "subsequent offense."

Refusing a BAC test — can cost your license. For DUI questions: refusing a chemical BAC test triggers a separate 12-month license revocation for a first refusal under Delaware's implied consent law. Do not assume refusal protects you from consequences (p. 53-57).

The real Delaware DMV knowledge test: 30 multiple-choice questions, no published time limit. Need 24 correct (80%) to pass — you can miss up to 6 questions. Road signs are mixed in throughout the test, not a separate section.

📋

Recommended Study Order

YOUR PLAN

Read Key Numbers tab — memorize every distance, speed, and BAC number

Read Right of Way + DUI tabs — the #1 and #2 failure topics

Read Road Signs + Signals tabs — shapes, colors, and signal meanings

Read School Buses + Parking tabs — specific rules with specific numbers

Take the Full Practice Bank — all 530+ questions to identify weak spots

Use Weak Spots mode — drill every question you got wrong until you nail it

Run the DMV Exam Simulator 3–5 times — pass consistently with 90%+ before going in

Night before: Re-read the Key Numbers tab + Test-Day Tips tab. Good sleep. You've got this. ✅

DMV Written Test · Recommended Study Approach

The Smartest Way
to Pass Your Test

A proven 4-phase approach that builds real understanding — not just memorization. Work through each phase at your own pace, and you'll walk into the DMV ready to pass on your first try.

📱 Uses This App 🎯 30 Qs · 80% to Pass 🧠 4 Phases · Your Pace ✅ 90%+ Before You Go

⚡ How This Approach Works

🧠

Learn before you quiz. Read the material first so practice questions teach you patterns — not just random answers.

🎯

Fix what's weak, skip what's strong. The app tracks every wrong answer. Spend your time where it matters most.

📈

Build up gradually. Numbers → Study Guide → Practice → Topics → Simulator. Each phase builds on the last.

🏁

Don't go until you're ready. Score 90%+ on the simulator twice before visiting the DMV. The real test allows you to miss up to 6 of 30 questions (need 24 correct, 80%) — but aim for 90%+ to be safe.

🧠 Phase 1 Learn — Build Your Foundation

🔢

Step 1 · Start Here

Memorize the Key Numbers

Study Guide → 🔢 Key Numbers tab · then take the Key Numbers Quiz

⏱ 30–40 min

Click in the top bar → open the tab.

Read every number out loud. Speed limits, distances, BAC limits, suspension periods. Saying them out loud forces your brain to process them more deeply.

Write these on paper: 25 mph residential · 50 mph two-lane / 55 mph divided / 65 mph Route 1 · 0.08% BAC (21+) · 0.02% under-21 BAC · 300 ft signal · 500 ft dim beams oncoming · 200 ft dim when following · 1,000 ft headlight visibility · 15 ft hydrant · 20 ft crosswalk · 30 ft stop sign · 50 ft railroad · 12 in parallel park · 3 sec (low speed) · 4-6 sec (high speed/poor weather) · $500-$1,500 (1st DUI) · $200 reinstatement fee

Go home → click . Take it without your notes. Check your score.

Under 85%? Re-read the Key Numbers tab, then retake the quiz. Repeat until you hit 85%+.

💡

Why numbers first? A meaningful share of real knowledge test questions ask for a specific number. These are free points if you know them — and guaranteed wrong answers if you don't.

📖

Step 2 · The Big 4 Topics

Read the 4 Most-Tested Study Tabs

Study Guide → Right of Way · Alcohol & DUI · Road Signs · Signals & Lanes

⏱ 40–50 min

— read completely. This is the #1 failure topic. Understand left turns at green lights and Delaware's school bus rule (stop in BOTH directions, EXCEPT when you are on the opposite side of a road with 4+ lanes — proceed slowly with caution) (p. 79, 87-88).

— key facts: BAC 0.08%+ = DUI; 1st conviction: fine $500-$1,500, up to 12 months jail, 12-24 month license revocation depending on BAC. Under 21 = 0.02% BAC (Zero Tolerance). Refusing breath/blood: 12-month revocation (1st). Reinstatement fee: $200.

— shapes and colors tables. Octagon = stop, triangle down = yield, diamond = warning, pentagon = school zone, pennant = no passing.

— flashing red vs. yellow, green arrow vs. regular green, right-on-red rules (must make complete stop first, yield to pedestrians and traffic).

ℹ️

Don't try to memorize every word. Focus on understanding WHY each rule exists. When you understand the reasoning, you can figure out answers even when questions are worded differently from what you studied.

📖

Step 3 · The Rest of the Guide

Read the Remaining Study Tabs

School Buses · Parking · Teen Laws · Speed & Following · Safe Driving · Equipment

⏱ 30–40 min

— Delaware school bus rule: stop in BOTH directions when red lights flash, UNLESS you're on the opposite side of a road with 4+ lanes (proceed slowly). Yellow lights flash ~10 sec before red. Always on the test.

— memorize the 4 hill parking scenarios. Trick: no curb = always turn wheels right.

— Delaware GDL: Class D Learner Permit at age 16 (hold 6 months, 50 supervised hrs/10 night) → Class D Provisional License at age 16-17 (unsupervised 6 a.m.-10 p.m. only first 6 months; ALL cell phone use prohibited) → Full unrestricted license at age 18 (p. 27-29).

— following distance rule, passing rules, and when to increase your following distance. Know the stopping distances from Delaware Driver Manual (July 2025): 200 ft at 30 mph, 400 ft at 50 mph.

— hydroplaning, blowout, skid recovery, fog driving. Understand the logic — don't memorize.

— Headlights required from sunset to sunrise, when visibility is less than 1,000 ft, and when wipers are on. Dim high beams within 500 ft of oncoming vehicles; use low beams when following within 200 ft (p. 59-61).

✅

Pro tip: If you want even deeper detail, download the 📕 Official Delaware Driver Manual (July 2025) → for the full official content. The study guide gives you the highlights, the manual gives you everything.

☕ Take a real break here. Sleep on it if you can — your brain consolidates memory overnight. Phase 2 works best after at least a few hours (or a night) away from studying.

📝 Phase 2 Practice — Test Yourself

📚

Step 4 · First Practice Run

Full Practice Bank — Work Through 60–100 Questions

Home → 📚 Full Practice Bank · no timer, read every explanation

⏱ 45–60 min

Click . This gives you all 530+ questions in random order with no timer.

Read every explanation — even when you get it right. The explanations contain extra detail and reasoning that will help you on tricky test questions.

Do at least 60–100 questions. The app automatically saves every wrong answer so you can drill them later.

Click See Results when done. Note which categories you failed most — those are the targets for Phase 3.

ℹ️

Getting things wrong is the point. This is a learning session, not an exam. Every wrong answer you discover now is one you'll get right on test day.

🏆

Step 5 · Topic Deep-Dives

Practice Your 3 Weakest Categories

Home → Choose Your Practice Mode → pick Full Practice Bank or Quick Drill

⏱ 30–40 min

Look at your results from Step 4. Find the 3 categories where you got the most wrong (e.g., Right of Way, DUI, Road Signs).

Use the Study Guide to review your weak topics, then run the Full Practice Bank or Quick Drill to test yourself on all categories.

Repeat for your 2nd and 3rd weakest topics. Focused drilling is much more efficient than random practice.

Target: 80%+ on each topic. Under 80%? Go back to the Study Guide tab for that topic, re-read it, then retake.

🎯 Phase 3 Fix — Attack Your Weak Spots

🎯

Step 6 · The Most Important Step

Weak Spots Mode — Drill Every Wrong Answer

Home → 🎯 Weak Spots Only · the app loads your mistakes automatically

⏱ 30–45 min

Click . The app loads every question you've gotten wrong so far — automatically.

Before you answer — think about why each option might be right or wrong. Slow down and reason through it.

Still don't understand an answer? Open the Study Guide tab for that topic and re-read just that section. Or download the official manual for the full official explanation.

Retake Weak Spots until you score 85%+ on it. 2–3 rounds is completely normal — that's exactly how this is supposed to work.

⭐

This is the single most valuable thing you can do. Research shows that practicing things you got wrong is 3–5x more effective than re-reading material you already know. Don't skip this step.

☕ Take a break. At least 30 minutes. Let your brain rest before the simulation phase.

🏁 Phase 4 Prove It — Simulate the Real Test

📋

Step 7 · The Big Test

DMV Exam Simulator — Full Simulation

Home → 📋 DMV Exam Simulator · 30 questions · No time limit

⏱ 20–30 min

Click . 30 random questions, no time limit (matches the real test), need 80% to pass. Mirrors the real Delaware Class D knowledge test exactly: 30 multiple-choice questions drawn from the Delaware Driver Manual.

Treat it like the real thing. No notes. No Study Guide. Sit quietly, read every question fully, and give your best answer.

Check your score against the table below and follow the action for your result.

Your Score	Status	What to Do Next
Under 75%	Needs more work	Go back to Phase 3 — run Weak Spots mode on your wrong answers. Re-read the Study Guide for those topics. Then try the simulator again.
75% – 89%	Almost there	Run Weak Spots on what you missed, then take the simulator again. You're close — one more round should get you there.
90%+	Ready! 🎉	Run the simulator one more time to confirm. Score 90%+ twice → you are ready for the real test.

🔁

Step 8 · Repeat Until 90%+

Fix → Retest → Confirm

Retry Wrong Ones → DMV Simulator → repeat until you pass twice in a row

⏱ 30–45 min per cycle

From the results screen click . Drill every question you got wrong in the simulator.

For any question you still don't understand — open the Study Guide, find the right section, and re-read that rule. Or download the official manual for the full explanation.

Run the again. Keep going until you hit 90%+ twice in a row.

✅

The magic number is 90% twice. If you can score 90% on random questions under timed conditions two times in a row, you know the material — not just the specific questions.

🌙 Night Before Refresh — Don't Cram

🌙

Final Review — 20 Minutes Max

Quick Refresh, Then Sleep

Key Numbers tab + Test-Day Tips tab only · No new material

⏱ 20 min max

Open tab in the Study Guide. Read through once — don't study, just refresh.

Open the tab. Read the strategy section — especially "safest answer wins" and the Implied Consent rule for DUI refusal.

Take one as a confidence check. Score 80%+? Close the app and go to sleep. You're ready.

Go to sleep at your normal time. Being well-rested is worth more than another hour of studying.

⚠️

Do NOT cram the night before. Your brain needs sleep to consolidate everything you've learned. More than an hour of study at this point actually hurts performance.

🏁 Test Day Checklist

Before you walk into the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles office:

✅ Bring proof of identity (e.g., U.S. passport, certified birth certificate), proof of Social Security number (SS card, W-2), and two proofs of Delaware residency (utility bill, bank statement, lease). Full accepted ID list: dmv.de.gov

✅ Under 18: certified birth certificate, completed driver education certificate, parent/guardian signature on the application, secondary identity document

✅ Under-18 applicants must have a parent or legal guardian sign the application before any licensing tests can begin

✅ Glasses or contacts if you wear them — you must pass a vision test (20/40 minimum, p. 39-40)

✅ Class D 8-year license: $40. Late renewal: $10. Replacement: $20. If you fail the knowledge test, you can typically retake it after 1-3 days; check with your local lane (p. 14)

✅ Well-rested, fed, and confident 💪

30 questions · need 80% (24 correct) · you can miss up to 6 and still pass

You've Got This!

Free Delaware Permit Practice Test

DMV Exam Simulator

Road Signs Quiz

Key Numbers Quiz

Quick 15-Question Drill

Full Practice Bank

Study Guide

Delaware Driver Manual (July 2025) 📄 Get PDF

📖 DMV Study Guide

What to Study Before the Real Test

Speed Limits

Critical Distances & Clearances

DUI & Alcohol Numbers

Teen / GDL Numbers

Following Distance & Time Rules

Sign Shapes — Each Shape Has One Meaning

Sign Colors — Color Tells You the Category

Signs That Are Frequently Confused

The Core Right-of-Way Rules

Right-of-Way Scenarios That Trick People

Traffic Signal Meanings

Lane Markings — Know Each One

Safe Lane Changing Procedure

DUI Laws — The Numbers You Must Know

Critical DUI Facts to Remember

School Bus Stopping Rules

Speed Laws — What You Must Know

Following Distance — The 2-Second Rule

💡 When to increase beyond 2 seconds

Passing Rules

Parking Clearance Requirements

Parking on Hills — Wheel Position

💡 Memory trick

Delaware Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)

Emergency Situations — What to Do

Defensive Driving Principles

Vehicle Equipment Requirements

Headlight Rules That Are Tested

Before the Test — What to Do

During the Test — How to Answer

Top 10 Topics That Will Definitely Be on Your Test

Recommended Study Order

📋 Review All Answers

The Smartest Wayto Pass Your Test

⚡ How This Approach Works

🏁 Test Day Checklist

Official Delaware Driver Manual (July 2025)

📖 Our Study Guide — Exam-Focused Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes the Delaware Written Test Different

Studying in a Neighboring State?

The Smartest Way
to Pass Your Test