Title 2 Transportation

Driver Services

2209 Driver’s License for Armed Forces Personnel (Formerly Reg. No. 51)

Whereas, policies were issued in 1951, 1952, 1957, 1970 and 1975 regarding drivers licenses for members of the armed forces and their families; and

Whereas, there has been confusion concerning the existing policy regarding fees, duration and requirements for the issuance of servicemen's licenses; and

Whereas, in lack of a statute pertaining to this matter, a policy issued pursuant to Title 21, Section 302 will clarify the procedures;

The following policy is to be implemented effective immediately

1.0

All former policies, procedures and regulations regarding the issuance of driver licenses for servicemen, servicewomen, members of the armed forces, national guard or similar groups are repealed effective immediately. This includes, but is not limited to, the rulings of the Department dated January 18, 1951; April 21, 1952; February 5, 1957; May 26, 1970; January 30, 1975; and October 15, 1979.

2.0 Residents

1. 2.1 Any person, while serving in the armed services of the United States, who shall have had a valid Delaware driver's license issued to him/her at the time he/she entered the service shall continue to renew such license while in the service.
2. 2.2 The renewal fee shall be the same as renewal fees for other licensed drivers.
3. 2.3 The eye examination and appearance in person for a photo may be waived; if the applicant is out of state at the time of renewal. If the applicant is unable to appear, a "valid without photo" license shall be issued upon payment of the proper fee. The license shall not be issued if the applicant for renewal is not physically able to safely operate a motor vehicle or if the applicant is mentally incapacitated.
4. 2.4 Applicant must furnish, (a) discharge date, (b) military ID number, (c) Delaware residence address, (d) military address, (e) date entered service, (f) signature of superior officer.

3.0 Non - Residents

Any member of the armed forces, while on temporary assignment in the State of Delaware, will not be required to obtain a Delaware driver's license provided they are the holder of a driver's license issued to them in their home state or country, and such license was valid at the time they entered the armed forces, and such license is recognized in their home state, even though it may be expired by the expiration date shown.