Driver's License in Delaware Without an SSN (2026)

Can You Get a Driver's License in Delaware Without an SSN?

Yes. Delaware allows residents to obtain a driver's license (or driving permit) regardless of immigration status under SB 59 (2015). You do not need a Social Security Number or proof of legal U.S. presence to apply.

Delaware passed SB 59 in 2015. Licenses are issued through the Delaware DMV and are valid for driving throughout the state and across the country.

⚠️ License type

Standard driver's license — not valid as federal ID (REAL ID). This license is valid for driving but cannot be used to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or as a federal form of ID. For air travel you will need your passport.

Required Documents

Bring the following to your Delaware DMV appointment:

1Proof of identity — valid foreign passport
2Proof of Delaware residency — 2 documents required: utility bill, bank statement, lease, or government mail

💡 Tip

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified translation.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Gather your foreign passport and 2 proofs of DE residency
Step 2: Visit a Delaware DMV location
Step 3: Complete the application and pass the knowledge test
Step 4: Pass vision and road tests
Step 5: License mailed within a few weeks

What This License Allows

Once you have your Delaware driver's license or driving permit, you can:

Drive legally anywhere in Delaware
Get car insurance (insurers require a valid license)
Use it as a state-issued photo ID for non-federal purposes
Use it as proof of identity at banks and credit unions — this can help with opening an account

You cannot use this license to:

Board domestic flights (need a passport or REAL ID)
Enter federal buildings or military bases
Prove immigration status or work authorization

💡 Next step: build credit

A driver's license is accepted by many banks as a second form of ID alongside your ITIN — making it easier to open an account. See which banks accept ITIN →

Frequently Asked Questions

Can undocumented immigrants get a driver's license in Delaware? +

Yes. Delaware SB 59 (2015) allows undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license using a foreign passport and two proofs of Delaware residency. No SSN or ITIN is required.

Other States That Allow This

19 states and Washington D.C. currently allow undocumented immigrants to get a driver's license or driving permit. Browse by state:

CA CO CT DE HI IL MD MA MN NV NJ NM NY OR RI UT VT VA WA DC

For the complete list with each state's law and requirements, see the full driver's license guide →