Skip to Content Skip to Navigation
Delaware.gov logo

Division of Motor Vehicles

Drivers License/Identification Cards


Driving Privilege Card (DPC)

Driving Privilege Logo

Senate Bill 59 was passed by the 148th General Assembly in June 2015. The Bill authorizes and allows the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to issue a Driving Privilege Card (DPC) to undocumented Delaware residents of any nationality. The DPC will NOT be considered a valid form of identification.

The Delaware DPC will be considered a valid driver license that the Delaware DMV issues for driving purposes only within the state of Delaware. The DPC is only available to foreign Delaware residents who are unable to produce legal presence within the United States and meet certain eligibility requirements. The fee for the DPC is and will be valid for a period of 4 years. The Driving Privilege Permit and Card will bear the distinct verbiage "Driving Privilege Only" and "Not Valid for Identification" on its face.

**U.S. Citizens and persons with valid legal presence documents are not eligible for a Driving Privilege Card.**


Delaware Driving Priveledge Card Brochure:  English | Spanish
  • GET STARTED
  • DOCUMENT GUIDE
  • CHECKLIST
  • FAQ
  • APPOINTMENTS

Get Started!

In order to acquire a Delaware DPC there are a number of steps applicants must take to complete the process.


All eligible applicants must first contact the Delaware State Bureau of Identification (SBI) office at 302-739-2528 to begin the DPC application process. SBI will collect fingerprints, and validate identification. An SBI officer will provide a document containing an official receipt number and a DMV "appear on or after" date for the DMV process.


Applicants must also collect a Certification of Filing Compliance document from the Division of Revenue confirming they have filed Delaware taxes for the previous two years. Applicants should visit the Division of Revenue website at www.revenue.delaware.gov to immediately collect the Certification of Filing Compliance document or call the Division of Revenue's office at 302-577-8200 to schedule an appointment to obtain one. This document will contain the applicants name and date of birth, years taxes were filed, Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) or Social Security Number (SSN), and a document locator code.


Once those steps are finished, applicants must then appear in person at the DMV on or after the date provided by SBI. Questions can be answered by calling 1-877-477-7117.


When applicants arrive at DMV to apply for a DPC, they must be prepared and have all required documents, which must be in their original or certified form. Photocopied, altered, or expired documents will not be accepted. Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by a professional translator and accompany the original foreign language document. DMV will verify, scan and store images of all presented documents. A vision screening and knowledge exam may be conducted during this initial visit. Once applicants have passed the knowledge exam, a permit will be provided, and a road exam will be scheduled for a future date. All applicants must hold their permit for at least 10 days before a road exam is given.


Beware of Scams!

Delaware Driving Privilege Card (DPC)

Customers applying for a Delaware Driving Privilege Card (DPC) must provide at the time of their appointment:

  • SBI Receipt
  • Division of Revenue's Certification of Filing Compliance document
  • Valid proof of name and date of birth
  • Valid proof of any/all name change(s) if applicable
  • Two separate valid proofs of Delaware residency

Use the following guidelines of acceptable documents to help you determine the documents needed at your scheduled appointment when applying for a Driving Privilege Card.


*U.S. Citizens and persons with valid legal presence are not eligible to apply for a DPC*


Provide the following document from State Bureau of Identification (SBI):
(Photocopied, Expired, or Altered document will not be accepted)

Receipt from SBI containing:

  • Name and date of birth
  • SBI Receipt number
  • DMV's "Appear on or after" date

*Will be verified with SBI at DMV upon application*

Provide ONE of the following valid documents
(Photocopied, Expired, or Altered documents will not accepted)

Foreign Document that is valid, approved by the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and electronically verified by DMV:

  • Valid, unexpired Foreign Passport
  • Valid, unexpired consular identification document issued by your country of citizenship
  •    *Alternate approved Document for Mexico*
  • Mexican Federal Electoral Card (Instituto Federal Electoral (IFE) Credencial para Votar)
  • *Minors must also have an original and translated copy of their birth certificate in addition to one of the documents listed above*
Provide ALL of the following valid documents (Photocopied or Altered documents will not be accepted)
  • Valid marriage license / civil union certificate - must be issued by a government entity with a raised seal. Marriage certificates signed by clergy are not accepted.
  • Court ordered name change document
  • Finalized divorce decree stating your legal name. (A divorce decree may be used as authority to resume previous name only if it contains the new name and the previous name and permits return to the previous name.)
  • *Documents must be translated into English by a professional translator*

Provide prior TWO years (Photocopied, Expired, or Altered documents will not be accepted)

Certification of Filing Compliance document from the Division of Revenue containing:

  • Your (and your spouse and/or dependents) name
  • Year taxes were filed
  • Yours (and/or your dependents) ITIN/SSN
  • Division of Revenue Document Locator Code

*Will be verified with Division of Revenue at DMV upon application*

Provide TWO of the following for proof of Delaware residency: (Photocopies, printout of bills, non-business letters/cards will not be accepted)
  • Utility Bills
  • Credit Card Statement
  • Auto or Life Insurance policies
  • Bank Account Records
  • Employment Records
  • Rental Agreements
  • U.S. Postal Service change of address confirmation form/postmarked with forwarding address label
  • Other non-personal mail postmarked within the last 60 days

*Mail must have been delivered by the USPS and be postmarked or received within the last 60 days. (UPS/FedEx/DHL not accepted). Each of the two proofs of residency must be from separate sources and must display the person's physical address, not a P.O. box*

Accepted Valid Consular Cards (Photocopied, Expired, or Altered documents will not be accepted) *Please note this list is subject to change*
Country Name
Brazil (Carteira de Matricula Consular)
Colombia (Consular Registration)
Ecuador (Tarjeta De Identification Consular)
Guatemala (Tarjeta de Identificacion Consular)
Mexico (Matricula Consular)

Driver Privilege Card Checklist

The Delaware Driving Privilege Card (DPC) is a valid driver license that the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues for driving purposes only . The DPC is not a valid form of identification. The DPC is available to foreign Delaware residents meeting certain eligibility requirements but are unable to produce legal presence within the United States. U.S. Citizens and persons with valid legal presence documents are not eligible for a DPC.

  • Fee for the Driving Privilege Card is
  • DPC will be valid for a period of 4 years
  • DPC and Card will bear the distinct verbiage on its face of:
    • "Driving Privilege Only"
    • "Not Valid For Identification"

Beginning December 27, 2015, a DPC applicant may call the Delaware State Bureau of Identification (SBI) office at 302-739-2528 to schedule an appointment to begin the application process.

  • SBI requires proof of identity and will collect a fee of
  • SBI processes applicants' fingerprints, validating their identification
  • SBI provides applicant a receipt number and DMV "appear on or after" date for the DMV process

A DPC applicant must also obtain a Certification of Filing Compliance document from the Delaware Division of Revenue.

  • Document verifies applicant filed Delaware taxes within the two years prior to a DPC application.
  • It contains applicant's name, tax years filed, last four digits of Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) or Social Security Number (SSN), and a document locator code

The applicant may visit the Delaware Division of Revenue's website at www.revenue.delaware.gov to immediately collect a Certification of Filing Compliance document or call the Division of Revenue's office at 302-577-8200 to schedule an appointment to obtain one.

Once SBI and Revenue requirements are met, applicants must appear in person at the DMV on or after the date provided by SBI.

  • Questions can be answered by calling 1-877-477-7117.

When you arrive at DMV, please be prepared; have all required documents, which must be in their original or certified form:

  • Photocopied, altered, or expired documents will not be accepted
  • Documents in foreign languages must be translated into English by a professional translator and accompany the original foreign language document. DMV will verify, scan and store images of all presented documents. A vision screening and knowledge exam may be conducted during your initial visit. Once you pass the knowledge exam, a permit may be provided, and a road exam may be scheduled for a future date. You must hold your permit for at least 10 days before a road exam can be scheduled.

A quick check list is provided on the reverse of this sheet for your reference. For the most up to date information regarding the DPC process, please visit the DMV website at www.dmv.de.gov.


DPC Application Requirements

1. Visit your local State Bureau of Identification (SBI) office for fingerprinting on or after December 27, 2015. (Visit www.dsp.delaware.gov/state_bureau_of_identification for SBI location information) Or a DPC applicant may call the Delaware State Bureau of Identification (SBI) office at 302-739-2528 to schedule an appointment to begin the application process.


✓ Have fingerprints collected - Fee is
✓ Get SBI receipt containing:

  • Name and date of birth
  • SBI Receipt number
  • DMV's "Appear on or after" date

*Do not lose this receipt. You will need to provide it to DMV for application purposes*


2. Visit the Division of Revenue's website at www.revenue.delaware.gov to immediately collect your Certification of Filing Compliance document or call the Division of Revenue at 302-577-8200 to schedule an appointment to obtain one.


✓ Request a Certification of Filing Compliance as proof of previous two years of filed Delaware tax documents
✓ Certification of Filing Compliance document contains:

  • You (and your spouse and/or dependents) name
  • Year taxes were filed
  • Your (and your spouse and/or your dependents) ITIN/SSN
  • Document locator code

3. Appear at the DMV facility with all of the required documents on or after the date provided by SBI.


Appear at the DMV facility where your appointment is scheduled:


✓ You must appear at the proper DMV facility prepared and on time
✓ Documents that you provide must be valid, original or certified, and if applicable, translated into English by a professional translator
✓ Required documents:

  • SBI receipt
  • Division of Revenue's Certification of Filing Compliance
  • Proof of Name and Date of Birth (Valid passport or unexpired consular identification document)
  • Name change documents, if applicable (In the case of multiple name changes, you must provide a document from each name change to prove the continuity of names)
  • Two separate proofs of Delaware residency (Must be postmarked by USPS within last 60 days and must come from a company/business. Personal mail will not be accepted)
  • application fee

4. After the application process has been completed you must pass the required:


✓ Vision Screening
✓ Rules of the Road Knowledge Test

  • A DPC permit will be issued upon successful completion.
  • The DPC permit is valid for 6 months and must be held for at least 10 days before a road test may be scheduled

✓Road Skills Test

  • DPC license shall be issued upon successful completion of scheduled road test.

Driving Privilege Card (DPC) FAQ's


Q. What is a Driving Privilege Card (DPC)?

A. The Delaware Driving Privilege Card (DPC) is a valid driver license that the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues for driving purposes only. It is not to be considered a valid form of identification.

Q. Who is eligible to apply for a DPC?

A. The Driving Privilege card is available to foreign Delaware residents who are unable to produce legal presence within the United States and meet certain eligibility requirements.

Q. When does Delaware's DPC go into effect?

A. The effective date is December 27, 2015.

Q. Do the DPC documents look different than a Delaware license or Identification Card?

A. Yes. The DPC permit and license will bear the distinct verbiage "Driving Privilege Only" and "Not Valid for Identification" in red on its face. The photo will be surrounded by a red box containing the verbiage "Privilege".

Q. How long is a DPC good for?

A. A DPC permit is valid for 6 months and a DPC license is valid for 4 years.

Q. What do I need to do to apply for a DPC?

A. There are several steps a DPC applicant must take prior to applying for a DPC. Please refer to the "Checklist" tab on this website for the proper application steps.

Q. Why do I have to provide my fingerprints to SBI to be eligible to apply for a DPC?

A. SBI collects your fingerprints to ensure your identity has not been compromised prior to applying for a DPC.

Q. When will the fingerprint requirements begin?

A. Beginning December 27, 2015, you may contact the Delaware State Bureau of Identification office at 302-739-2528 to schedule an appointment for fingerprint collection.

Q. Where do I go to have my fingerprints taken?

A. The locations and hours for SBI are as follows:

SBI'S Main Office - Kent County (by appointment only)
The office is located at 655 South Bay Road, Suite 1B, Dover, DE 19901, in the Blue Hen Corporate Center. Enter the road between Kent County Levy Court and Firestone, and then follow the fingerprint signs.

Hours of operation are:

  • Mondays, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • To schedule an appointment call 302-739-2528

SBI's Northern Office - New Castle County (by appointment only)
The office is located at Delaware State Police Troop 2, on Route 40, in Bear, just west of the Fox Run Shopping Center, between routes 72 and 896.

Hours of operation are:

  • Mon, Wed, Thurs, and Fri, 8:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
  • Tuesday, 11:30 a.m. to 6:15 p.m.
  • To schedule an appointment call 302-739-2528

SBI's Southern Office - Sussex County (by appointment only)
The office is in the Thurman Adams State Service Center located at 546 S. Bedford Street, Room 202, Georgetown, DE.

Hours of operation are:

  • Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
  • To schedule an appointment call 302-739-2528
  • CASH IS NOT ACCEPTED at this location

Q. Where do I obtain a Certification of Filing Compliance to establish that I have filed two years of Delaware taxes?

A. Visit the Delaware Division of Revenue's website at www.revenue.delaware.gov or call 302-577-8200 to schedule an appointment to obtain one.

Q. Where are the Division of Revenue offices located?

A. Delaware's Division of Revenue offices are located:

New Castle County
Carvel State Office Building
820 North French Street
Wilmington, DE 19801 Dover, DE 19901
Phone: 302-577-8200
Fax: 302-577-8202

Kent County
Thomas Collins Building
540 S. DuPont Highway
Phone: 302-744-1085
Fax: 302-744-1095

Sussex County
20653 DuPont Blvd., Suite 2
Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: 302-856-5358
Fax: 302-856-5697

Q. How do I contact my countries consulate office in the U.S.?

A. Please visit the U.S. Department of State's website for information pertaining to your countries consulate office.

Q. I am a U.S. Citizen or Delaware resident with legal presence who is unable to provide proof of identity. Can I apply for a DPC?

A. No. DPC is not available to U.S. Citizens and persons who have valid legal presence within the U.S.

Q. Can I use expired identity documents to obtain a DPC?

A. No. All documents must be valid, original and/or certified to be accepted for a DPC application.

Q. Will I be tracked, arrested, and/or deported if I apply for a DPC?

A. No. DMV does not report DPC information to USCIS and is not in the business of deportation. DMV is only interested in licensing drivers to ensure road safety.

Q. Am I eligible to apply for a DPC if I am a dependent?

A. Yes. Dependents must meet all of the requirements to obtain a DPC.

Q. What do I do if I can't find the information I need on the web site?

A. Please call our customer friendly help desk at 1-877-477-7117 for more information.

Q. I previously applied for and received a license under another identity. What are the steps I need to take to obtain a DPC in my proper identity?

A. If you fraudulently obtained a previous Delaware license, you will need to immediately surrender that license to the DMV. Upon surrender of the fraudulent identity license, you will be required to serve a 6 month suspension. Once your suspension period has been served there will be a reinstatement fee to the Driver Improvement Unit. Then you may be eligible to apply for a DPC under your valid identity.

Q. I am unable to read or write. Am I eligible to apply for a DPC?

A. Yes. Translators are permitted to assist during the application and testing process.

Schedule a DPC Appointment

You must make appointments with SBI and Delaware Division of Revenue.

1. Appeared at one of the below SBI locations to have your fingerprints collected and obtained a receipt containing:

✓ Your Name and date of birth
✓ SBI Receipt number
✓ DMV's "Appear on or after" date


SBI's Main Office - Kent County (walk-ins only) The office is located at 600 South Bay Road, Suite 1, Dover, DE 19901. Hours of operation are: · Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.. · The lobby will be closed for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. · No appointment necessary.

SBI's Main Office - Kent County (walk-ins only)
The office is located at 600 South Bay Road, Suite 1, Dover, DE 19901.

Hours of operation are:

  • Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
  • The lobby will be closed for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • No appointment necessary.

SBI's Northern Office - New Castle County (by appointment only)
The office is located at Delaware State Police Troop 2, on Route 40, in Bear, just west of the Fox Run Shopping Center, between routes 72 and 896.

Hours of operation are:

  • Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • To schedule an appointment call 302-739-2528.

SBI's Southern Office - Sussex County (by appointment only)
The office is in the Thurman Adams State Service Center located at 546 S. Bedford Street, Room 202, Georgetown, DE.

Hours of operation are:

  • Monday - Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
  • To schedule an appointment call 302-739-2528.
  • CASH IS NOT ACCEPTED at this location.

**SBI requires a Birth Certificate, Foreign Passport, Consular ID Card, Foreign Driver License, or School Identification document that includes a photograph. You will be photographed and fingerprinted. The fee for this process is .**

2. Visit the Delaware Division of Revenue's website www.revenue.delaware.gov to immediately collect your Certification of Filing Compliance document or call the Division of Revenue at 302-577-8200 to schedule an appointment to obtain one. This document will contain:

✓ Your (and your spouse and/or dependents) name
✓ Year taxes were filed
✓ Your (and your spouse and/or dependents) ITIN/SSN
✓ Document Locator Code


New Castle County office location
Carvel State Office Building
820 North French Street
Wilmington, DE 19801 Dover, DE 19901
Phone: 302-577-8200
Fax: 302-577-8202
www.revenue.delaware.gov

Kent County office location
Thomas Collins Building
540 S. DuPont Highway
Phone: 302-744-1085
Fax: 302-744-1095
www.revenue.delaware.gov

Sussex County office location
20653 DuPont Blvd., Suite 2
Georgetown, DE 19947
Phone: 302-856-5358
Fax: 302-856-5697
www.revenue.delaware.gov