If your license has been suspended in Delaware, you cannot simply wait for the time to run out and start driving again. You must take active steps to clear the “Stop” on your record.
The process depends entirely on whether your license was Suspended (temporary hold) or Revoked (cancelled completely). This guide breaks down the exact fees, courses, and steps required to get back on the road.
Step 1: Read Your “Official Notice of Suspension”
The Delaware DMV does not guess; they send a specific letter to the address on your file. This letter is your checklist. It tells you:
- The Violation: Why you lost the license.
- The Duration: How long you must wait.
- The Requirements: Which specific course or fine stands in your way.
Lost the letter? You can view your current status and requirements by purchasing your DMV Driving Record in Delaware or logging into the myDMV portal.
Step 2: Satisfy the Underlying Issue
You cannot pay the reinstatement fee until the original cause is fixed.
- Unpaid Tickets: Pay the specific court listed on your ticket (e.g., Justice of the Peace Court). The DMV cannot accept payment for court fines.
- Child Support: You must obtain a “Compliance Note” from the Division of Child Support Services (DCSS).
- No Insurance: You must provide proof of a valid, active Delaware auto insurance policy (NAIC certified).
Step 3: Complete Mandatory Courses
For many offenses, money isn’t enough. You must prove you have changed your driving behavior.
- Behavior Modification Course: Required for suspensions of 6, 8, 10, or 12 months due to point accumulation.
- Defensive Driving: Required for speeding violations to receive a 3-point credit.
- DUI Education: If suspended for alcohol, you must complete the state-approved DUI program before you are eligible for reinstatement.
Step 4: Pay the Reinstatement Fee (2026 Rates)
Once the suspension time has passed and the requirements are met, you must pay the fee to “unlock” your license. The cost depends on the severity of the action.
| Action Type | Reinstatement Fee | Notes |
| Suspension | $50.00 | Standard temporary hold. |
| Revocation | $200.00 | Complete cancellation (e.g., DUI, Drag Racing). |
| Ignition Interlock | Varies | Fees for device installation if required. |
How to Pay:
- Online: Via the myDMV portal.
- Phone: Call the Driver Improvement Unit at (302) 744-2509.
- In-Person: You generally need a Delaware DMV Appointment to pay this at the counter.
How to Apply for an Occupational License in Delaware While Suspended
If you need to drive to work, school, or medical appointments during your suspension, you may apply for an Occupational License.
- Eligibility: You must have no prior suspensions in the last few years and the suspension cannot be for physical/mental reasons.
- Process: Submit the Occupational License Application to the Revocation Section.
- Restrictions: You will be strictly limited to specific hours and routes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Unlike many states, Delaware does not typically require an SR-22 certificate for residents. You simply need to show proof of valid Delaware insurance. However, if you moved out of state and are trying to reinstate your Delaware driving privilege to get a license elsewhere, the new state may require Delaware to file a clearance, which might trigger an SR-22 need.
For Suspensions: No. Your license is just “on hold.”
For Revocations: Yes. A revocation cancels your license. You must apply for a brand new learner’s permit, retake the written test, and pass the road exam again.
You cannot process a standard Delaware DMV Address Change on a suspended license online. You must contact the Driver Improvement Unit directly to update your file so you receive your legal notices.
Conclusion
Reinstatement is a strict sequence: Resolve the Court -> Complete the Course -> Pay the DMV. Do not attempt to drive until you have the physical reinstatement receipt in your hand. If your license was revoked, remember to budget $200.00 and prepare to retake your driver’s exam.
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