Trying to figure out what type of driver’s license you should get?
Want to familiarize yourself with all the types of driver’s licenses in Delaware?
Whatever the case, we have the complete Delaware driver’s license classifications guide for you.
Here, we’ll give you all the classes, describe them in detail, and tell you how to get each one.
With this, there will be no more confusion about CDL Class A and non-CDL Class A, and so on and so forth.
So without further ado, let’s begin!
Types of Driver’s License in Delaware
Here is a list of the types of driver’s licenses in Delaware:
- Class D
- Class A CDL
- Class B CDL
- Class C CDL
- Class A
- Class B
- Class M
Looks confusing, right?
Well, let’s see the difference between all these classes.
Delaware Class D License
Class D is your most common type of driver’s license. It’s what people get to operate their private vehicles.
To be more specific, a Class D license can operate vehicles that have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of less than 26,000 pounds. These vehicles can be common passenger cars, utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and station wagons.
Delaware Class A, B, and C CDL License
The CDL licenses are for those who operate commercial trucks.
Here are the descriptions of Class A, B, and C CDL licenses in Delaware:
- Class A CDL – for vehicles that have a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) of more than 26,000 pounds and have a towing capacity of over 10,000 pounds
- Class B CDL – for vehicles that have a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds and have a towing capacity of fewer than 10,000 pounds
- Class C CDL – for vehicles that have a GVWR of fewer than 26,000 pounds and have a towing capacity of fewer than 10,000 pounds. Class C vehicles can also transport more than 16 passengers.
Delaware Class A and B License
Here are the vehicles that can operate a Class A and B license in Delaware:
- Class A – for vehicles that have a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds and have a towing capacity of over 10,000 pounds
- Class B – for vehicles that have a GVWR of more than 26,000 pounds and have a towing capacity of fewer than 10,000 pounds
These classes are not to be confused with the CDL classes.
But as you might have noticed, the same criteria are used for the commercial and non-commercial licenses.
Well, the major difference is that non-CDL licenses are only given to those who operate fire trucks, farm trucks, and military vehicles. Whereas the CDL classes are for those that operate trucks commercially.
Delaware Class M Endorsement
A Class M endorsement is given to those who will be operating motorbikes, motorcycles, or any three-wheeled motor vehicle.
How to Get a Class D License in Delaware
To get a Class D license, you first need to have a learner’s permit.
Here are the steps to get one:
- If you are between 16 to 17 years old, enroll in a state-approved driver’s education course. This is free if you take it in your high school.
- Fill up the online document selector guide to know which documents you need to bring to the DMV.
- Go to one of the required DMV offices (click here for locations) and submit your documents
- Fill up the application form found at the DMV. If you are below 18 years old, you need your parent or legal guardian to sign it.
- Pass the vision and knowledge exams
- Take a photo to put on your license
- Pay the fee of $40
- Get your learner’s permit
Once you have held your learner’s permit for 12 months, your learner’s permit will automatically convert to a Class D License.
That is, if you fulfilled these requirements:
- Completed 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.
- Your sponsor, parent, or guardian has passed a certificate to the Department of Education that you have completed 50 hours.
Now, if you are getting your Class D license for the first time and you are above 18 years old, here are the steps:
- Fill up the online document selector guide to know which documents you need to bring to the DMV
- Go to one of the required DMV offices (click here for locations) and submit your documents
- Fill up the application form found at the DMV.
- Pay the licensing fee of $40
- Have your photo taken
- Pass the vision and knowledge exams
- Hold your learner’s permit for 10 days
- Pass the road test. You are required to schedule an appointment (click here to do it online).
- Get your Class D license
How to Get Classes A, B, and C CDL in Delaware
Getting a CDL, regardless of the class, includes 2 major steps. The first step is to apply for a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). The next is to apply for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
You will also be required to pass medical certifications such as a certification from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and a self-certification affidavit.
Now, here are the steps to getting your CLP:
- Bring your Delaware driver’s license, proof of residency in Delaware, and the medical requirements to the DMV Office
- Submit all the documents and fill up the CDL application form
- Consent to a drug test
- Pass the knowledge exams for your CDL class and/or other endorsements
- Pay the $5 CLP fee
After 14 days of holding your CLP, you are already allowed to apply for a CDL.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Schedule an appointment with the DMV office online or via call (click here to do it online)
- Bring your CLP, the current driver’s license of the licensed CDL driver accompanying you, and the vehicle registration and insurance card of the vehicle you will be using for the road test
- Pass the road test
- Pay the CDL fee ($30 for a 5-year validity or $48 for an 8-year validity)
- Get your CDL
How to Get Classes A and B in Delaware
The process for getting a non-commercial class A or B license in Delaware is similar to the process for a commercial license.
The only difference is you will need to schedule an appointment with the DMV and fill up an application form for a Non-CDL. During this appointment, you will also take a knowledge test and road test to see if you are qualified to operate the vehicle that you have declared to use.
If you pass these tests, you will be given a non-CDL.
How to Get a Class M Endorsement in Delaware
To get a Class M Endorsement, you have to pass both a written knowledge exam and a skills exam.
Anyone 16 to 18 years old has to pass a signed motorcycle application by their parent or legal guardian. What’s more, the applicant should take a Motorcycle Rider Education Program from an approved provider by the DMV.
For those who are 18 years old and above, you are also required to take the same approved program. The good news is that if you take the program, your written and skills tests are waived.
Once you complete the requirements, you need to pay $12 for the endorsement.
Conclusion
So those were all the Delaware driver’s license classifications.
As you can see, it can be a bit confusing.
However, with this complete guide, you now know the difference between these license classes.
Plus, you also now know how to get each one.
So whatever license class you need, you should get working on it right away.
Good luck!