The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has moved almost entirely to a “Digital First” model. While you canstill walk in for some services, doing so without checking the Live Wait Times dashboard is a recipe for a wasted afternoon.
The smartest way to visit the DMV is to use the myDMV Portal to book a specific slot, ensuring you are seen within minutes of arrival.
Method 1: Schedule a Delaware DMV Appointment Through the myDMV Online Portal (Recommended)
This is the standard way to book road tests, license renewals, and vehicle inspections.
- Access the Portal: Go to myDMV.delaware.gov.
- Create/Log In: You will need your Driver’s License number and Date of Birth.
- Select Service: Choose your specific transaction (e.g., “Road Test” or “Vehicle Inspection”).
- Choose Location: Delaware has four main hubs: Wilmington, Delaware City, Dover, and Georgetown.
- Confirm: You will receive a confirmation email. Save this. You may need to show it at the door to bypass the general queue.
Method 2: Use the Delaware DMV Walk-In Strategy by Checking Live Wait Times First
If you cannot find an appointment slot, you can check the real-time status of the lines before you drive there.
- The Tool: Visit the official DMV Wait Times Dashboard.
- How it Works: It shows the current wait (in minutes) for “Driver Services” vs. “Vehicle Services” at all four locations.
- Pro Tip: If Wilmington has a 60-minute wait, check Delaware City. It might be 0 minutes.
What to Bring to a Delaware DMV Appointment Based on Your Service
Booking the appointment is easy; showing up with the wrong paper is where most people fail.
Documents Required for a Delaware Driver’s License Road Test Appointment
- Permit: Your valid Delaware Learner’s Permit.
- The Sponsor: You must bring a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. They must sit in the front seat.
- The Car: Valid registration and valid insurance card. The car must pass a safety check (lights, horn, brakes) before the test begins.
Documents Required for Delaware Vehicle Title and Registration Appointments
- New Residents: If you are moving here, read the full Out of State Title Transfer in Delaware guide first. You mustpass the safety inspection lane before your appointment.
- The Documents:
- Original Title (or MCO).
- Proof of Delaware Insurance.
- Driver’s License.
- Temporary Tag (if you are driving an unregistered vehicle to the inspection).
Documents Required for Delaware License Renewal or Replacement Appointments
- The Card: Your old license (if you have it).
- Address Change? If you moved, bring two proofs of your new address (utility bill, lease). See the Delaware DMV Address Change guide for accepted documents.
- Vision: Be prepared to pass a vision screening.
Documents Required for Delaware Driver’s License Reinstatement Appointments
- The Letter: Bring your “Official Notice of Suspension.”
- Payment: Reinstatement fees ($50 for suspension, $200 for revocation).
- No SR-22? Remember, Delaware rarely requires SR-22s for residents. Check the Reinstate a Suspended Driver’s License in Delaware guide to confirm your specific requirements.
Documents Required for a Delaware Duplicate Title Appointment
- ID: Valid Driver’s License.
- Form: Completed Form MV-213.
- Details: VIN, Make, Model, and Year. Learn more in the Delaware Duplicate Title guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Search for “Delaware DMV” in the App Store to download the official app, or just bookmark their Wait Times webpage. It is updated every few minutes.
The Delaware DMV is strict. If you are more than 5 minutes late, your appointment is usually forfeited, and you will be placed at the back of the “Walk-In” line.
No. You can actually purchase your DMV Driving Record in Delaware completely online and print it at home, saving you the trip entirely.
Generally, no. Delaware DMV offices are open Monday through Friday. However, they have “Late Nights” on Wednesdays (until 8:00 PM) at most locations to accommodate working schedules.
Conclusion
The secret to a fast Delaware DMV visit is Wednesday nights or mid-month Tuesdays. Avoid the 1st and 15th of the month. Always check the Live Wait Times before you leave your house, and if you need a road test, ensure your sponsor is over 21.


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