Motorcycle Laws in Delaware

This page will answer the most common questions we receive about motorcycle laws and licensing requirements in  Delaware.

Continue reading to find your answer and follow links to explore some of these topics in greater depth. 

Motorcycle Helmet Law in Delaware

Motorcycle helmets are required for riders 18 years old and younger.

Additionally, eye protection like a face shield or goggles is also required.

A motorcycle helmet is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment. Wearing one can greatly reduce your chances of being seriously injured or killed if you are involved in a motorcycle crash. 

Read more about motorcycle helmet laws and safety.

Delaware Motorcycle Noise Restrictions & Exhaust Requirements

A proper muffler is required. 

Motorcycle exhaust must not create excessive or unusual noise. 

Noise restrictions may be enforced by local law enforcement or during periodic inspections. 

Local jurisdictions may have their own ordinances regarding motorcycle noise limits.

Motorcycle Safety Inspections and Equipment Requirements

Period safety and equipment inspections for motorcycles in Delaware are performed during each registration period.

Some of the equipment requirements for Delaware motorcycles include:

• Rearview mirror.
• Fenders on both wheels.
• Turn signals.

Motorcycle Passenger Laws in Delaware

There are no passenger restrictions for motorcycles in Delaware.

Whenever you ride with a passenger:

• Be sure to give them instructions on what they’ll need to do. 
• Make sure they can comfortably reach the passenger handholds and footrests. 
• Make sure that they are wearing all of the necessary motorcycle safety equipment.

Learn more about riding with passengers on your motorcycle.

Requirements for Daytime Running Lights for Motorcycles in Delaware

Using daytime headlights is not required for motorcycles in Delaware.

Using headlights during the day can help to increase your visibility to other drivers. 

This is a smart thing to do regardless of whether the law requires it. 

Delaware Lane Splitting Laws

Lane splitting is not specifically mentioned as legal or illegal in Delaware.

There are some nuances to lane splitting, lane filtering, and lane sharing. 

Learn more about lane splitting.

Motorcycle Title Laws & VIN Verifications

The state of Delaware issues titles to all motorcycles.

VIN verifications are required to register out-of-state motorcycles.

If you buy a motorcycle without a title or are moving from a state that doesn’t issue titles, the registration documents and the Bill of Sale should serve as proof of ownership.

Learn more about motorcycle registration and title requirements in Delaware.

Find some helpful tips for when you buy a motorcycle.

Minimum Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in Delaware

Motorcycle insurance is required in Delaware, the minimum coverage limits are:

• $25,000 bodily injury coverage per person.
• $25,000 bodily injury coverage per accident.
• $10,000 property damage coverage per accident. 

Remember, the minimum liability requirements kick in during the event of a collision with another vehicle. If you need more coverage for things like theft, single vehicle collisions, and other types of damage you’ll need to get a policy with comprehensive and collision coverage as well. 

Compare quotes for free, and find cheaper motorcycle insurance. 

Learn more about motorcycle insurance in Delaware.

Motorcycle Safety Course Requirements & Details

An approved motorcycle safety course is required for riders under 18 years old to get a motorcycle license in Delaware.

Completing the course will waive the requirements for the written exam and motorcycle road test.

A motorcycle safety course is a great way to get familiar with the basics of riding, learn about the most important motorcycle laws, and become a safer, smarter rider. No riding experience is necessary to complete a course.  

Learn more about motorcycle safety courses and Basic Rider Training programs.

Is a Driver’s License Required to get a Motorcycle Endorsement in Delaware?

Before you get a Delaware motorcycle license, you will need to already have a standard driver’s license. 

Motorcycle Permit & Licensing Requirements in Delaware

A motorcycle instruction permit is required before getting a motorcycle license.

If required, you’ll need to hold the learner’s permit and practice riding for at least 10 days before getting an unrestricted motorcycle license. 

In order to get the permit, you’ll need to pass a written test.

In Delaware, motorcycle permit restrictions include:

• No passengers.
• No freeway riding.
• Daytime riding only.
• Helmet required.

The permit is valid for up to 6 months, and can be renewed if needed.

Learn how to get a motorcycle license in Delaware.

Delaware Motorcycle License Age Requirements

The minimum age to begin the Delaware motorcycle licensing process is 18 years old years old without training or 17 years old if you complete a motorcycle safety course.